If you're going to be in London in the second part of November, December, or early January, you're undoubtedly looking for Christmas activities to take part in. During the holiday season, the UK capital is filled with dazzling lights hung everywhere, markets spring up all over the city, and everyone appears to get into the Christmas mood. You'll see a different city than you saw in the summer.
If you weren't aware of the magic of this place during Christmas, then you'll need this list of Christmas activities to plan your holiday.
If you're looking to experience the magic of London's festive displays this winter, a special Christmas lights bus tour at night is a great way to do it. You can hop on and off at various stops, including Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Covent Garden, and enjoy live commentary from your driver as you cruise through the city. From the boughs of Kew Gardens to the rails on London's outskirts, everything is lit up and waiting for you to explore.
What is a Christmas vacation without a Christmas flick to end your day with? There are so many places you can go to watch a traditional Christmas movie with a warm cup of hot chocolate by your side. Though Christmas is a festival when people come together, it can get lonely at times especially when you're travelling alone. Not to worry, you can watch a Christmas movie to lift your spirits.
Luna Cinema, joyful flicks - in a castle!
Prince Charles Cinema, where you can view holiday films all month long.
If you're a Harry Potter fan, you'll enjoy this wonderful experience at Warner Bros, Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. The film sets and props have been turned into a winter wonderland, complete with snowflakes falling from the ceiling and ice sculptures of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. A special Christmas-themed tour is also available until December 31, 2023.
Christmas at Kew is a wondrous event that celebrates the festive season with spectacular flower displays, live entertainment, and delectable food and drinks. It is one of the highlights of the UK's winter calendar and a terrific opportunity to appreciate nature and culture in London.
Christmas at Kew runs from 15 November, 2023, to 7 January, 2024, and is open on the following dates:
(Wednesday) 15 November – (Sunday) 19 November, 2023
(Wednesday) 22 November – (Sunday) 26 November. 2023
(Tuesday) 28 November – (Sunday) 3 December, 2023
(Tuesday) 5 December – (Sunday) 24 December, 2023
(Tuesday) 26 December, 2023 – (Sunday) 7 January, 2024
The trail is approximately 3 km long and can take up to 2 hours to walk around, while stopping for refreshments and seeing all the attractions like Father Christmas, visiting the fairground, toasting marshmallows and taking photos.
Tickets: The Gardens close at 10 pm with the last entry at 8 pm (7 pm on 24 December 2023). You need to book your tickets in advance and choose a time slot for entry. You can book your tickets online or by phone.
Hyde Park is located between the upscale stores of Knightsbridge, including the famed Harrods, and the bustling Oxford Street. Every December, this enormous green space is converted into a Winter Wonderland, and it is not to be missed. The celebratory mood is truly enchanting.
If you arrive during off-peak hours, you can enter the Winter Wonderland for free. Otherwise, admission costs up to £7.50. Some rides, events, and attractions are also charged. But be warned: there's so much to see, eat, and drink here that a single visit may not be enough!