Christmas in London: what to see, what to do and where to stay

Have you decided to spend Christmas in London and are wondering how best to make the most of this magical experience? Then look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the best activities, must-see places, hotels to stay in and restaurants to enjoy. Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas in the British capital!

The best places to relax after a festive day

The Z Hotel Piccadilly, a haven of peace in the heart of London

Ideally located in central London, the Z Hotel Piccadilly is an excellent choice for making the most of the Christmas atmosphere. This modern, comfortable hotel offers stylish, well-equipped rooms at affordable prices. Just a short walk from the main attractions and shopping streets, you’ll be right in the heart of all the festive action.

In addition to its privileged location, Z Hotel Piccadilly offers warm and attentive service to make your stay even more enjoyable. After a long day of sightseeing, you can relax in the cosy lounge with a glass of wine or a cup of tea.

The citizenM London Bankside, a design and art hotel

For art and design lovers, the citizenM London Bankside is the perfect place to stay in London. Close to the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre, this contemporary hotel offers comfortable, high-tech rooms and a communal living area filled with art and designer furniture.

The citizenM London Bankside also has an on-site bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy international dishes and creative cocktails in a trendy atmosphere. Don’t forget to take advantage of their outdoor terrace for views of the city and to soak up the Christmas spirit.

The best Christmas lights and decorations in London

The twinkling lights of Regent Street and Oxford Street

Every year, London’s most famous shopping streets are transformed into a Christmas light show. Regent Street and Oxford Street are a must for admiring the magnificent illuminations and feeling the festive atmosphere that reigns in the city.

The light displays on these streets are some of the most impressive in London, with glittering garlands stretching for miles and magical shop windows. Take a stroll along these bustling streets to do your Christmas shopping while enjoying the light show.

The enchanted Covent Garden market

Covent Garden Market is a must-see when you’re in London over Christmas. This historic market is all decked out for the festive season, with a gigantic Christmas tree, strings of lights and charming temporary shops.

Take a stroll down the aisles of the market, where you can pick up some original gifts and sample some local specialities. Don’t miss the street performances and entertainment that add an extra touch of magic to the Christmas atmosphere in Covent Garden.

The dazzling Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is another must-see destination for London’s Christmas lights. This pedestrianised street is renowned for its original and creative decorations, which change every year. Expect to be amazed by the innovative and colourful light installations.

As well as the illuminations, Carnaby Street is also a great place to shop in independent boutiques for unique gifts for your loved ones. Take advantage of the festive atmosphere to stroll down the adjacent lanes and discover the area’s trendy bars and restaurants.

The lively district of Soho

Christmas in London wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous Soho district. This vibrant, cosmopolitan district is decked out in its finest festive decorations, with illuminated streets, festive shop windows and an electric atmosphere.

Soho is the perfect place to enjoy London’s nightlife, with its many bars, pubs and clubs. Don’t miss a glass of mulled wine in one of the district’s traditional pubs, or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in a cosy café.

The London Eye, the symbol of London

What better way to admire London’s Christmas lights than from a great height? The London Eye Ferris wheel gives you a breathtaking view of the city’s twinkling lights and iconic monuments such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames.

Take advantage of this unique experience to immortalise your stay in London with breathtaking photos of the illuminated city. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid queues and choose the time slot that suits you best.

Trafalgar Square, London’s most famous Christmas spot

Every year, the famous Trafalgar Square plays host to a huge Christmas tree donated by Norway as a sign of friendship between the two countries. This majestic tree, decorated with thousands of lights, stands proudly in the middle of the square and offers a spectacular sight.

Trafalgar Square is also the scene of many events during the festive season, with concerts, shows and choirs celebrating Christmas. Don’t hesitate to stop and enjoy the festive atmosphere and take some souvenir photos in front of the giant Christmas tree.

Christmas activities in London

Enchanting shop windows and Christmas shopping

Christmas is the perfect time to go shopping in London, with the many shops and boutiques decked out in their finest decorations. Stroll along shopping streets such as Regent Street, Oxford Street and Carnaby Street to admire the magical window displays and find original gifts for your loved ones.

Department stores such as Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty are also not to be missed for their festive atmosphere and their departments dedicated to Christmas decorations. Don’t forget to visit the short-lived boutiques selling local products and handmade creations for unique gifts.

Christmas markets in London

London is famous for its many Christmas markets, which spring up all over the city during the festive season. These markets offer a warm and friendly atmosphere, with wooden chalets selling culinary specialities from all over the world, crafts and entertainment for young and old alike. You can take a stroll around the Christmas markets, browsing the stalls selling craft products, gourmet foods and souvenirs to suit all tastes and budgets. You can also warm up with hot drinks such as mulled wine, hot chocolate or tea, which will take your mind off the cold. Finally, you can treat yourself to culinary specialities, such as sausages, crêpes and mince pies, to help you discover the flavours of Christmas.

Here are a few examples of Christmas markets in London that will give you an unforgettable experience.

– Winter Wonderland, London’s biggest and most famous Christmas market in Hyde Park, with over 200 stalls, an ice rink, Ferris wheel and fairground attractions.

– The Southbank Centre Winter Market, a warm and cosy Christmas market along the River Thames, with wooden chalets, local produce and cultural events.

– Christmas by the River, a picturesque and romantic Christmas market near Tower Bridge, offering handicrafts, sweet treats and stunning views over the city.

Ice skating on ephemeral ice rinks, a festive and fun activity

London has a number of ephemeral ice rinks set up in iconic locations around the city for the Christmas period. Lace up your skates and let yourself be swept away by the magic of the festive season on one of these enchanting ice rinks.

Some of the most famous ice rinks are at the Tower of London, the Natural History Museum and Somerset House. Each of these rinks offers a unique setting and a festive atmosphere that will delight young and old alike. Don’t forget to book in advance to be sure of finding a place in the most popular time slots.

Here are a few examples of Christmas ice rinks in London that are sure to get you sliding.

– Somerset House Ice Rink, London’s most elegant and prestigious ice rink, set in the courtyard of an 18th-century palace, with a 900m² ice rink surrounded by fir trees and lights.

– The Natural History Museum Ice Rink, the most magical and romantic ice rink in London, located in front of the museum, with a 1000 m² ice rink decorated with garlands and a giant Christmas tree.

– Canary Wharf Ice Rink, the most modern and original ice rink in London, located in the business district, with a 1300 m² rink, ice tunnel and light show.

London’s Christmas funfairs: a magical experience

During the Christmas period, London plays host to several funfairs offering attractions, rides and entertainment for all the family. Be sure to visit the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which offers a host of activities, shows and treats to immerse you in the magic of the festive season.

As well as Winter Wonderland, there are other funfairs in the city, such as Winterville on Clapham Common and Christmas in Leicester Square. Each of these fairgrounds offers an enchanted world and unforgettable memories for young and old alike.

Discover Harry Potter Studios at Christmas, a “Hogwarts in the snow” atmosphere

For Harry Potter fans, a visit to Warner Bros Studios over Christmas is like a daydream. The sets and costumes from the famous film are brought to life in a magical atmosphere, with snow-covered Christmas trees, string lights and even a life-size replica of Hogwarts in the snow.

Stroll through the corridors of the wizarding school, discover the secrets of filming and take unforgettable souvenir photos in this enchanted setting. The studios also offer workshops and special events for the festive season, such as the chance to sample a hot beer or take part in a magic potions class.

Visiting London, the best areas for the festive season

1. Camden Town and Market, a trip to alternative and surprising London

Camden Town is a must-see area of London, renowned for its eclectic market and alternative atmosphere. During the Christmas period, Camden Market is decked out in its finest decorations and offers festive entertainment and products to get you into the festive spirit.

Stroll through the market aisles to find original gifts and sample local and international culinary specialities. You can also take advantage of your visit to Camden Town to discover the many bars, pubs and concert halls for which the area is famous.

2. Notting Hill, the elegant and colourful charm of Julia Roberts’ neighbourhood

The famous district of Notting Hill is a must-see during your stay in London, with its colourful houses and cobbled streets. During the Christmas period, Notting Hill is decked out in festive decorations and offers plenty of entertainment to celebrate the festive season in a warm and elegant atmosphere.

Be sure to visit Portobello Road Market, where you can pick up vintage treasures and local crafts. You can also enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in one of the many tea rooms in Notting Hill.

3. Piccadilly Circus, London’s Times Square

Piccadilly Circus is an iconic London square, often compared to New York’s Times Square. During the Christmas period, the many illuminated signs lining the square add an extra touch of magic to the city’s festive atmosphere.

While you’re at Piccadilly Circus, take the opportunity to explore the adjacent shopping streets, such as Regent Street and Oxford Street, and visit the famous Fortnum & Mason shop, which sells gourmet food and exquisite Christmas decorations.

4. Soho, the party district not to be missed

As mentioned above, the Soho district is a must for enjoying London’s festive atmosphere and nightlife. As well as bars, pubs and clubs, Soho is also home to many restaurants, shops and theatres that will get you into the Christmas spirit.

Be sure to explore the area’s quaint alleyways, such as Carnaby Street and Kingly Court, which offer independent boutiques and heated terraces to enjoy a glass of mulled wine or a festive meal.

Savour the flavours of Christmas in London’s best restaurants

London is a gourmet city, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafés and tearooms to suit all tastes, budgets and occasions. Whether you’re looking for somewhere cosy, trendy or romantic, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. Here are just a few examples of places to eat in London that will make you salivate and indulge.

1. Wagamama, a culinary journey around the world

Wagamama is a chain of Asian restaurants operating throughout London. Their menu offers a selection of tasty and balanced dishes inspired by Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisine. During the Christmas period, Wagamama adds a festive touch to its menu with special dishes and seasonal cocktails.

If you’re looking for a gourmet break with a change of scenery during your stay in London, don’t hesitate to stop off at one of the many Wagamama restaurants in the city. You’ll discover exotic flavours and comforting dishes to warm you up after a day of sightseeing.

2. Mazi, Greek cuisine revisited in the heart of Notting Hill

The Mazi restaurant, located in the charming Notting Hill district, offers modern and refined Greek cuisine in an elegant and friendly setting. Their menu revisits the classics of Greek gastronomy with fresh ingredients and meticulous presentation, for an unforgettable culinary experience.

During the Christmas period, Mazi offers a warm and festive atmosphere, with traditional decorations and seasonal dishes featuring Mediterranean flavours. Book a table for a romantic dinner or a family meal at this Greek restaurant like no other.

3. EL&N Cafe, girly and gourmet tea time

EL&N Cafe is a chain of London tea rooms with a pink and feminine decor, delicious pastries and creative drinks. During the Christmas period, EL&N Cafe offers a festive tea time with cakes and biscuits in seasonal flavours, as well as comforting hot drinks.

Treat yourself to a gourmet break in one of London’s many EL&N Cafes and enjoy Christmas tea time in an enchanting setting. Don’t forget to take a few souvenir photos in this instagrammable tearoom.

4. Breakfast Club, a festive brunch in Soho

The Breakfast Club is a restaurant located in the lively Soho district, offering gourmet breakfasts and brunches in a retro and friendly atmosphere. During the Christmas period, The Breakfast Club adds a festive touch to its menu with special dishes and seasonal drinks.

Take advantage of your visit to Soho to enjoy a comforting brunch at the Breakfast Club and soak up the festive atmosphere of the district. Don’t hesitate to share a sweet or savoury dish with your loved ones to discover the flavours of English Christmas.

5. Le Pain Quotidien, a must for a gourmet break

If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty meal, Le Pain Quotidien is the place to go. This restaurant offers dishes inspired by French, Belgian and Mediterranean cuisine. You can choose from a simple menu to suit all tastes and all times of day, including breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also enjoy efficient, polite and discreet service that will ensure you have a good time. Last but not least, you’ll enjoy a rustic, warm and friendly setting that will make you feel right at home.

6. The Sky Garden, a café with a view over London

If you’re looking for a coffee with a view over London, you’ll need to visit The Sky Garden, a café serving drinks, snacks and cocktails. You can choose from a refined menu to suit all tastes and occasions, such as morning, afternoon or evening. You can also enjoy attentive, elegant and professional service that will ensure you have a great time. Last but not least, you’ll enjoy an exceptional setting, with panoramic views over London, and a hanging garden that will take your mind off the noise and stress of the city.

Practical information for visiting London at Christmas

London is an easy city to visit, with a wide variety of transport links, services and advice to make your life easier. You can visit London at Christmas, and take advantage of practical information that will save you time, money and peace of mind. Here are a few examples of practical information you need to know to visit London at Christmas.

How can I spend Christmas in London?

London is a well-connected city with many options for spending Christmas in London. You can choose from the following options, depending on your budget, time and comfort:

• The plane, which is the quickest and most practical way of getting to London, with several airlines, several airports and several prices to choose from.
• The train, which is the most ecological and comfortable way of getting to London, with the Eurostar service linking Paris to London in less than 2? hours, allowing you to travel without stress, luggage or checks.
• Bus: the cheapest and most flexible way of getting to London, with several companies, stops and timetables to choose from.

Getting around London

London is a well-organised city with many options for getting around. You can choose from the following options, depending on your budget, time and inclination:

• The Underground, which is the quickest and most practical way of getting around London, with a network of 11 lines covering the whole city and enabling you to reach the main tourist sites in just a few minutes at a reasonable price.
• Buses are the cheapest and most authentic way to get around London, with a network of over 700 routes covering the whole city and enabling you to discover London’s districts, monuments and atmosphere at a reasonable price.
• Cycling is the greenest and most fun way to get around London, with a bike hire service called Santander Cycles, where you can hire a bike for as little as £2 for 24 hours and return it to one of the 750 stations throughout the city.