There isn’t any higher time to be in London than throughout the month of December. This is when the streets come to life in streams of fairy lights, so fairly that it typically seems like you’re inside a Christmas tree! You also can take pleasure in conventional European Christmas Markets, a brand new custom that has swept London.
This yr I travelled to London to take in the Christmas spirit and see for myself simply how magical this metropolis might be at Christmas time. Here are my prime picks for every thing you need to do for a magical Christmas in London.
Post up to date December 2021.
How to spend Christmas in London
1. Winter Wonderland
As the Brit’s model of a conventional European Christmas Market, Winter Wonderland is crucial Christmas exercise for any customer to London in November/December as a result of it actually is a world of marvel. Think pop-up German stalls promoting glühwein, rollercoasters, a carousel bar (that rotates, sure) and all of the Christmas market meals you possibly can think about: waffles, pretzels, crepes and extra. Best of all – it’s free to enter!
Location: Hyde Park
2. Harrods
As the world’s most well-known division retailer, Harrods is a London vacation spot in itself (a lot in order that it has its personal designated cease on the double decker bus tour!) The division retailer actually involves life over Christmas and in case you’re available in the market for a present or two, there is no such thing as a higher place to search out every thing and get within the Christmas spirit.
Location: 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London
3. Ice Skating at Somerset House
Perhaps probably the most iconic ice skating rink in all of London is hidden off the principle thoroughfare. This rink is positioned behind the facade of Somerset House close to the Thames River. Be certain to e-book your tickets upfront (£17) as numbers are capped on the ice. Throughout December it’s typically unimaginable to get a ticket on the day.
Location: Somerset House
4. Ice Skating on the Natural History Museum
There are numerous ice skating rinks that pop up across the metropolis of London over the month of December. But in case you have been to select only one, we’d advocate visiting the Natural History Museum. There is a big Christmas tree within the centre of the rink in addition to the magical backdrop of the museum. This makes the Natural History Museum probably the most scenic spots to skate in London.
Location: Natural History Museum
5. Burlington Arcade
The Burlington Arcade was created in 1819 and is magical any time of yr. December is nevertheless past magical, when it’s adorned in glamorous Christmas decorations. The arcade incorporates a vary of native artisans, British manufacturers and International designers. The decorations adorn the arcade all through December.
Location: 51 Piccadilly, London
6. Shopping on Regent and Oxford Street
If it’s Christmas presents you’re after then look no additional than Regent and Oxford Street, each of which come to life over the month of December in a stream of Christmas lights, carols, and decorations galore. There is in fact no scarcity of outlets to discover, providing you with the chance to search out one thing particular to your family members (and your self!)
7. Treats to Eat from Fortnum & Mason
If you’re searching for Christmas shortbread, jams, goodies and something candy then head straight to the enduring Fortnum & Mason in St James’s for a (very) Christmassy purchasing expertise (and one that can depart you with luggage of goodies!)
8. Have Dinner within the Great Hall
Imagine all of your Christmas desires coming true: with the ability to dine within the Hogwarts Great Hall for Christmas! Yes, this can be a very actual factor! I’ve visited the Great Hall in an bizarre month, however Christmas simply appears a lot extra ethereal. Bookings can be found by the Warner Bros Studio Tour web site however beware, they e-book out quick and promote for a reasonably penny!
Location: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden
Plan your journey to London: