Ultimate Christmas in London Guide: 50+ Festive Things to Do, Top Markets & Best Photo Spots

Ahh, London at Christmas — it’s pure magic! The air is crisp, the lights are dazzling, and there’s mulled wine around every corner. Having visited London many times during the festive season, I can confidently say that nowhere does Christmas quite like this city! So, if you’re planning a trip or just want to make the most of the season, here’s your ultimate list of 50+ festive things to do in London.

London Christmas Markets You Can’t Miss

Most markets are open daily from November 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Here are the opening dates of the London Christmas markets for 2025:

N°1. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

A sprawling festive extravaganza featuring over 100+ rides and attractions, including the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a Giant Wheel, live shows, and a traditional German-style Christmas market. It’s a must-visit destination but victim of its success, you should book your tickets online in advance.

📍 Location: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
🎄 Dates: Open from November 21st, 2025 to January 5th, 2026
⏰ Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

➤➤ Discover my Prague Christmas Markets List article that is updated every year.

N°2. Southbank Centre Winter Market

Tucked along the Thames, this lively market bursts with wooden chalets, quirky artisan gifts, and festive drinks. With stunning riverside views, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a little something out of the ordinary!

📍 Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30, 2025 – January 6, 2026
⏰ Hours: Mon–Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM; Fri: 11 AM – 10 PM; Sat: 10 AM – 10 PM; Sun: 10 AM – 9 PM

N°3. Christmas at Greenwich Market

Historic and charming, Greenwich Market is perfect for artisan finds, where you can explore handmade crafts, vintage items, and unique Christmas gifts amidst the stunning backdrop of the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark.

📍 Location: Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30, 2025 – January 6, 2026
⏰ Hours: Monday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

N°4. Marylebone Village Christmas Market

A hidden gem for indie shopping, Marylebone Village is a quaint neighborhood filled with artisan gifts, and a cozy atmosphere. They usually set up a Christmas market for a day during the holidays

📍 Location: London W1U 2NE
🎄 Dates: Open on November 13th, 2025
⏰ Hours: From 10 AM to 6 PM

N°5. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Small but iconic, Trafalgar Square’s Christmas market features a gorgeous Christmas tree and festive stalls offering unique gifts, sweet treats, and cozy winter snacks, all set around the impressive National Gallery.

📍 Location: Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30th, 2025 to December 23rd, 2025
⏰ Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

N°6. Leicester Square Christmas Market

Situated in the heart of London’s entertainment district, this market features traditional wooden stalls offering seasonal treats and handcrafted gifts. The centerpiece is a vintage Spiegeltent hosting a variety of Christmas shows, adding to the festive atmosphere.

📍 Location: Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LU
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30, 2025 – January 6, 2026
⏰ Hours: Monday–Friday: 12 PM – 10 PM; Saturday–Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM

N°7. Leadenhall Market

A Victorian-style beauty straight out of a Dickens novel (or Harry Potter!), Leadenhall Market glows with charming Christmas lights, offering an elegant setting for holiday shopping and festive dining.

📍 Location: Gracechurch St, City of London, London EC3V 1LT
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30th, 2025 to December 23rd, 2025
⏰ Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

N°8. Borough Market’s Festive Kitchen

London’s oldest food market transforms during the festive season, offering seasonal produce, cooking demonstrations and more! It’s a haven for food enthusiasts seeking traditional and contemporary holiday flavors.

📍 Location: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
🎄 Dates: Open from December 1, 2025 – December 24, 2025
⏰ Hours: Mon–Fri: 10 AM – 5 PM; Sat: 8 AM – 5 PM; Sun: 10 AM – 3 PM

N°9. Covent Garden Market

Covent Garden always transforms into a Christmas paradise over the festive period. The area is full of twinkling Christmas lights and decorations including mistletoe chandeliers, a giant reindeer, a present-filled vintage car and a huge Christmas tree. Definitely a quaint part of London! The lovely and colorful Neal’s Yard is also located in the area.

📍 Location: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 8RF
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30, 2025 – January 6, 2026
⏰ Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM; Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM

N°10. Paternoster Square Christmas Market

Nestled near St. Paul’s Cathedral, Paternoster Square offers cozy vibes with charming market stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to delicious food, all against the stunning backdrop of the cathedral’s dome.

📍 Location: Paternoster Square, London EC4M 7DX
🎄 Dates: Open from December 1, 2025 – December 24, 2025
⏰ Hours: Monday–Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

N°11. Christmas at King’s Cross & Coal Drops Yard

Many markets are taking place throughout the month, including a Mexican Market with a roaming cumbia band! Here you can find everything from homeware, clothes, ornaments, books, and of course food and drinks. Just five minutes away from King’s Cross Station, you can find Coal Drops Yard, a bustling area with over 50 shops. They usually also have some stalls around.

📍 Location: King’s Cross, London N1C
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30th, 2025 to December 23rd, 2025
⏰ Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

N°12. Battersea Power Station Christmas Market

A new hotspot with a festive glow, Battersea Power Station’s market offers fancy shopping, cute food stalls, and impressive holiday displays, all set in one of London’s most iconic locations.

📍 Location: Battersea Power Station, London SW8 5BN
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30, 2025 – January 6, 2026
⏰ Hours: Monday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

N°13. Winter by the River (London Bridge City)

Winter by the River is a festive Christmas market at London Bridge, featuring twinkling lights, lovely stalls, and stunning views of Tower Bridge.

📍 Location: London Bridge City, SE1 2DB
🎄 Dates: Open from November 12th, 2025 to January 5th, 2026
⏰ Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 08:00 PM

N°14. Kingston Christmas Market

The market features over 40 stalls offering unique festive gifts, making it a perfect destination to embrace the Christmas spirit. In addition to the market stalls, there is often live entertainment, including classic Christmas carol singers and live music.

📍 Location: Kingston-Upon-Thames, London KT1 1JS
🎄 Dates: Open from November 30th, 2025 to December 24th, 2025
⏰ Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 08:00 PM

The Best Christmas Light Displays and Festive Streets in London

London’s festive season is renowned for its spectacular Christmas light displays, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. Here are some of the most enchanting streets and areas to explore during the holidays:​

N°15. South Molton, Brook & Mount Streets

Nestled near Bond Street, South Molton Street is famed for its distinctive blue arches that create a mesmerizing tunnel of light. These arches provide a contemporary contrast to the classic festive displays found elsewhere in the city. Nearby, Brook and Mount Streets in Mayfair are adorned with elegant decorations that complement the upscale boutiques and eateries, offering a sophisticated festive ambiance.​

N°16 Regent Street

Regent Street’s Christmas lights are among London’s most iconic. The “Spirit of Christmas” display features magnificent illuminated angels that soar above the street, creating a breathtaking canopy of light.

N°17. Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is celebrated for its unique and often unconventional Christmas themes. Each year, the street showcases a different imaginative display and also collaborations with charities and artists.

N°18. Oxford Street

Oxford Street boasts a dazzling array of lights, with thousands of twinkling bulbs illuminating the bustling shopping district. The annual switch-on event is a significant occasion, often featuring celebrity appearances and live performances, marking the official start of London’s festive season. ​

N°19. Bond Street

Bond Street is synonymous with luxury, and its Christmas decorations reflect this reputation. In recent years, the street has featured elegant displays, such as peacock-inspired designs, adding a touch of opulence to the festive atmosphere. ​

N°20. The Royal Arcade

Located in the upscale shopping district of Mayfair, this covered shopping arcade is a true hidden gem. Packed with luxury stores, the Christmas decorations are always on point and are super Instagrammable. As it is a historic Victorian arcade, it is touristy and it does get pretty busy. You should go there right when it opens if you can.

N°21. Burlington Arcade

Burlington Arcade is also a covered shopping arcade. Here again, it is home to luxury retail ranging from accessories, clothing, footwear, art, and antique. This beautiful place extends 179 meters from Piccadilly through to Burlington Gardens. During Christmas, the decors are lovely but just like the Royal Arcade, it gets busy. Try going at the opening or right before it closes.

N°22. Savile Row

Known for bespoke tailoring, Savile Row adds a touch of class to Christmas with understated yet elegant decorations. The festive lights enhance the street’s sophisticated atmosphere, reflecting the craftsmanship of its renowned establishments.​

N°23. Annabel’s in Mayfair

Annabel is a members-only club that became Insta-famous due to its over the top holiday decor. Every December, the entrance to Annabel becomes a huge Christmas display! Even if it is a private club, you don’t have to get in to see its decor.

N°24. Elizabeth Street

Elizabeth Street in Belgravia is one of the most gorgeous streets to go to during Christmas time. You can find many gorgeous displays at several stores and cafés. I advise you to check out Les Senteurs, Jo Loves, and Peggy Porschen. The latest is a well-known blogger and Instagrammer’s spot. It changes its decor depending on the season and its Christmassy snow-covered floral display is perfect for photos!

The Best Ice Skating Rinks in London

London’s ice skating rinks are the perfect way to get into the festive spirit, offering a variety of stunning locations to glide and spin through the winter season.

N°25. Somerset House

The Edmond J. Safra Fountain courtyard at Somerset House is home to another amazing ice rink. You can skate day and night but there is a limited number of tickets and skating sessions so make sure to book yours!

N°26. Canary Wharf Ice Rink

Located in Canada Square Park, this rink offers a spacious outdoor skating experience with a weather-proof transparent roof, making it London’s longest-running seasonal ice rink. ​

N°27. Glide at Battersea

Another fun thing to do at Battersea Power Station is to try their seasonal ice-rink, located right outside the shopping mall. They also have a pop-up bar with igloos!

N°28. Skate West End (Hanover Square)

Situated in the heart of the West End, this outdoor rink provides a delightful skating experience in the picturesque setting of Hanover Square, complemented by a seasonal bar for warming up. ​

N°29. The Rink at Winter Wonderland

Located in Hyde Park, this open-air rink is part of the Winter Wonderland festivities, offering a magical skating experience amidst various attractions and festive decorations. ​

N°30. The Queen’s House (Greenwich)

Set within the historic Queen’s House in Greenwich, this rink offers a unique skating experience surrounded by royal history and scenic views, typically operating during the winter months. ​

The Most Beautifully Decorated Department Stores in London

During the holiday season, London’s department stores are known for their stunning Christmas decorations. From Selfridges’ bold displays to the elegant charm of Liberty, these stores offer more than just shopping — they provide a festive experience that captures the spirit of the season.

N°31. Selfridges

Located on Oxford Street, Selfridges is renowned for its elaborate Christmas displays, featuring fully decorated trees, vibrant window scenes, and innovative decorations.

N°32. Battersea Power Station

While primarily an iconic industrial building, Battersea Power Station embraces the holiday spirit with festive lighting and decorations and super cool pop-ups.

N°33. Liberty London

Situated on Regent Street, Liberty London is housed in a distinctive Tudor-style building and is celebrated for its vintage-inspired Christmas decorations, including handcrafted ornaments, exquisite garlands, and a thoughtfully curated Christmas shop offering unique festive goods. ​

N°34. One New Change

This modern shopping center near St. Paul’s Cathedral enhances the festive mood with contemporary decorations, including a towering Christmas tree and dynamic light displays.

N°35. Fortnum & Mason

This upmarket department store in Piccadilly is a lovely place to find sparkling and fancy Christmas gifts. Fortnum’s offers high-quality British products and you can ever have an unforgettable afternoon tea experience there. Do not miss the main staircase inside the store. It is one of the most Instagrammable London spot ever!

N°36. Harrods

Harrods is definitely London’s most famous department store and the largest department store in Europe! The store occupies a 20,000 m² site and has over 90,000 m² of selling space. Located in Knightsbridge, you should visit during the night to see the store sparkle and light up. Also renowned for its spectacular window displays, do not forget to snap their Instagrammable Christmas luxury decorations inside and outside.

N°37. John Lewis

John Lewis, particularly its Oxford Street location, is renowned for its elaborate Christmas decorations, featuring themed window displays, a grand Christmas tree, and a dedicated Christmas shop offering a wide array of ornaments and festive goods. ​

Christmas Party Bars, Restaurants and Cafés In London

Festive drinks, tasty treats, and holiday vibes… London definitely has the ultimate spots to eat, drink, and be merry this Christmas!

N°38. Koyn

Koyn in Mayfair shines with its festive decorations, including a red Mini Cooper outside, decorated with gifts and topped with a Christmas tree.

N°39. Coppa Club

The Coppa Club igloos return every Christmas near Tower Bridge and are a huge Instagram spot. Since they are so popular, you can only book them online with a few available each day for walk-ins. If you don’t get a spot, don’t worry, it is also possible to take photos of them from outside.

N°40. Sketch

Sketch is a restaurant/bar famous due to its pretty interior and fun toilets. Victim of its success, it is usually always full and you have to book online if you want to go for food or tea time. I heard that it is not worth eating there and only having a drink and checking out their cool toilets is enough! Therefore, I cannot give you my opinion on their food but their decor is great!

N°41. Daphne’s

Daphne’s in Chelsea is famous for its stunning Christmas decor, featuring elegant themes and festive touches like olive trees and sparkling accents. The restaurant also offers a special holiday menu with festive cocktails, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the season in style.

N°42. Miracle Pop-Up at Henrietta Hotel

Every year, the Henrietta Hotel goes all out with its Miracle Pop-Up bar. Think festive cocktails and Christmas decorations that are as extra as they come. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a cozy drink, soak in the holiday vibes, and just enjoy the magic of the season.

N°43. The Savoy

The Savoy is the epitome of Christmas elegance. With its towering tree and sophisticated decorations, it’s a place that feels like a Christmas classic. Whether you’re stopping by for an afternoon tea or just to enjoy the festive ambiance, it’s a must-visit.

N°44. The Ivy Collection

During Christmas, The Ivy locations across London become beautiful, festive spots. The decorations are stunning, and the atmosphere feels warm and welcoming. It’s a great place to enjoy the season, whether you’re dining or just enjoying the decor.

N°45. Churchill Arms

If you’re in Kensington, you’ve got to check out the Churchill Arms pub. It’s famous for its jaw-dropping Christmas display; covered in lights and decorations from head to toe. Perfect for a festive pint or a holiday meal, and definitely Instagram-worthy.

The Coolest Christmas Activities in London

London is packed with cool random Christmas activities. I’ve listed some of my favorites below!

N°46. Check Out St. Pancras’ Christmas Tree

St. Pancras International is famous for its stunning, uniquely themed Christmas tree each year. Often designed in collaboration with top brands or artists, it’s a spectacular sight!

N°47. Watch Outernet’s Light Show

Outernet London near Tottenham Court Road hosts mesmerizing immersive light shows on giant wrap-around screens. During Christmas, the visuals are transformed into festive displays, creating a magical, otherworldly experience.

N°48. Play Curling at Coal Drops Yard

Curling at Coal Drops Yard is such a fun experience! With six lanes, anyone can give it a go. Afterward, you can kick back at the bar with drinks and food. It’s the perfect spot to hang out with friends.

N°49. Go to Christmas at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is already a pretty Instagrammable place on its own but it becomes incredible during Christmas time. Thousands of lights illuminate the place and will leave you in awe especially if you visit after sunset (which is super early in London in December, like late afternoon!)

N°50. Visit Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is one of London’s most charming hidden gems, located in the heart of Covent Garden. During Christmas, this colorful courtyard becomes even more magical with festive lights and decorations that complement its vibrant buildings.

N°51. Check Out Maddox Gallery and Ede & Ravenscroft

Maddox Gallery, is where contemporary art meets festive flair with over-the-top Christmas displays. Just around the corner, you can find Ede & Ravenscroft, London’s oldest tailors since 1689. Their Burlington Gardens location dazzles with festive decor, plus three iconic red phone booths — a perfect Instagram spot!

N°52. Eat at Seven Dials Market

Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is a food lover’s paradise, and it truly comes alive during the festive season. With a wide variety of food vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal desserts, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a warm meal after a day of Christmas shopping.

N°53. See a Deer at Richmond Park

Have you always dreamed of seeing a deer? In Richmond Park, which is a National Nature Reserve, you can! All deer there are roaming freely so be careful not to scare them and also watch out because deer have learned to approach people in search of food and tend to charge if they think you carry some food.