The year has almost come to an end and it’s the favorite time of the year again. Wondering what we’re talking about? What else it can be other than the joyful Christmas celebrations especially when it’s in London? From the humming of Christmas carols to the grandeur of midnight mass celebrations, Christmas in London is worth the experience. Catering to the whims and fancies of travellers of all ages, the holidays will have tons of surprises for everyone alike. Christmas is all about celebrating the feeling of togetherness, families coming together and sharing love and happiness. Choose from these best hotels and restaurants to celebrate Christmas in London – a place that transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the best time of the year, Christmas!
10 Must Experiences During Christmas In London 2024
Right from the London Christmas decorations to the very vibes of the city feels festive on Christmas Eve in London. With some of the festive things to do in London during Christmas, all the travellers never run out on trying out new activities and collecting new experiences.
From the famous Trafalgar Square to the Westminster Abbey, all the famous London Christmas attractions are covered in lights from top to bottom and are worth the sight. Therefore, make sure you do not miss out on these 10 must experiences to cherish the real taste of Christmas celebration in London.
- Trafalgar Square: Adore The Biggest Christmas Tree
- Westminster Abbey: Attend The Best Midnight Mass
- London: Fill Your Eyes With Christmas Lights
- Royal Albert Hall: Sing In Sync At The Carol Concert
- Hyde Park: Celebrate At The Winter Wonderland
- London: Explore The Hogwarts In The Snow
- Ice Skating: Christmas Is Incomplete Without It
- Shopping: It Would Never Be Tiring
- Blues Kitchen: Best Christmas Party
- Gifts: Don’t Forget To Ask Santa For It
1. Trafalgar Square: Adore The Biggest Christmas Tree
Image Credit: Peter Trimming for Wikimedia Commons
As a token of love and peace, the Norwegians follow the tradition of gifting a massive Norwegian Spruce tree annually during Christmas in London. Ever since this was established in 1947, visiting and adoring the biggest tree at Trafalgar Square has been one of the favourite events for Christmas in London and among the varied Christmas attractions in London.
Location: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London, UK
Entry Fee: None
Timings: 2-6 PM on weekdays, 4-8 PM on weekends
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2. Westminster Abbey: Attend The Best Midnight Mass
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Located just to the west of the Palace of Westminster, the magnificent church of Westminster Abbey is one of the historical churches in London which serves as a hyped venue for the royal wedding, coronation ceremonies, and grand midnight mass celebrations. With a history dating back about a thousand years, attending the church service on Christmas Eve in London is a must for every traveller on their trip.
Location: 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London
3. London: Fill Your Eyes With Christmas Lights
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This time of the year, every nook and corner of London during Christmas is covered with bling. The bright shining Christmas decorations, and the London Christmas Lights, instantly cheer up everyone and turn on the festive mode. From Regent Street to Trafalgar Square, walking through the vibrant streets has become a famous activity for locals and tourists during Christmas in London.
Famous Christmas Lights Locations: Kew Gardens, Seven Dials Christmas Lights, Marylebone, Regent Street, Kingston, Carnaby, and the Enchanted Woodland.
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4. Royal Albert Hall: Sing In Sync At The Carol Concert
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Considered to be one of the best Christmas events in London, the grand venue of Royal Albert Hall comes alive with a beautiful carol-singing concert during the Christmas season. Many popular artists like Adele, Enrique, and Justin Timberlake have performed at this majestic hall and matching your voice with some of the best singers in the country, is an experience in itself.
Location: Kensington Gore, Kensington, London
Entry Fee: starting INR 20,000 onwards for four seats and a private dining experience
5. Hyde Park: Celebrate At The Winter Wonderland
Image Credit: Garry Knight for Wikimedia Commons
This is one of the must-attend Christmas fairs and Christmas markets in London. It is next to sin if you miss out on exploring this wonderland. It is like that carnival that you’ve always dreamt of being a part of and is better than your best fantasy. From crazy rides to endless food stalls, and from mindblowing games to wonderful people, visiting Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park during Christmas is one of the best events for Christmas in London.
Location: London, UK
Timings: 5 Am – 12 Am
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6. London: Explore The Hogwarts In The Snow
Image Credit: CapStudio – Clementp.fr for Wikimedia Commons
Beating all the Christmas shows in London, the studio tour of the famous and ever-fascinating Hogwarts In The Snow is going to be a breathtaking experience this year as well. With a few makeovers and a grand setting, gear up to journey through the architectural marvels of the Gryffindor common room, the Great Hall, and the majestic Hogwarts castle.
Location: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, London
Duration: 18th November 2022 to 28th January 2022
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7. Ice Skating: Christmas Is Incomplete Without It
Image Credit: Thomas Quine for Wikimedia Commons
Christmas in London is an incomplete experience without testing your skating skills at the most popular ice skating rinks in London. With the famous landmarks serving as iconic backdrops, the skating ice rinks offer a magical experience during Christmas in London. Put your skates on, and get ready to slide, glide, and twirl in London. Ice skating at Christmas in London is one of the quintessential holiday activity.
Famous Ice Skating Rinks: Somerset House, Natural History Museum, Alexandra Palace, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Tower of London, Winterville, and Hampton Court Palace
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8. Shopping: It Would Never Be Tiring
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Fairs and Christmas markets in London need no introduction in terms of how extravagant, lively, and grand they are and how they bring the whole city alive, and together. From decorations to the spruce trees, from the stars to the mistletoes, from creative home decor to antique gifts, you can shop for anything under the sun and stars at London Christmas markets. Therefore, one of the best things to do for Christmas in London with family is to go visit the Christmas fairs.
Best London Christmas markets: Winter Wonderland, London Bridge City Christmas Market, Southbank Centre, and Tate Modern Market.
9. Blues Kitchen: Best Christmas Party
Image Credit: Steve Daniels for Wikimedia Commons
Spread across London at three different locations – Brixton, Camden, and Shoreditch, Blues Kitchen is one of the best venues for partying in London. Be it a traditional lunch, hitting the dance floor, or chilling out with friends over casual drinks, Blues Kitchen is the best place to share the joy of the festive season. Although, booking has to be done well in advance to make the most of Christmas in London.
Locations:
- 111-113 Camden High St, Camden, London
- 134-146 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, London
- 40 Acre Lane, Brixton, London
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10. Gifts: Don’t Forget To Ask Santa For It
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Spreading love and joy all over the city with his magical presence, spice up your Christmas celebrations by meeting the very own Santa Claus (or Father Christmas as the locals say) in London. Waiting to share the happiness with each one of the locals and travellers in London, you can greet many Santa Clauses at the famous Santa Grottos in London. Also, make sure you don’t forget to collect your Christmas gifts.
Popular Santa Grottos: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Father Christmas at Hamleys, and Duke of York Square.
Best Hotels For Christmas In London 2024
To enjoy the charm of the festive season at its best, one needs to make sure that their stay in London is comfortable, convenient, and cosy enough. Comprising of all those qualities, here are the three best hotels in London that will make your stay worthwhile.
- The Goring, Belgravia
- Claridge’s, Mayfair
- The Zetter Townhouse, Clerkenwell
- Andaz Hotel, Liverpool Street
- Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard
1. The Goring, Belgravia
Located at a distance of just 10 minutes from Buckingham Palace, the Goring Hotel is an upbeat, modern, and luxurious hotel which showcases the traditional English country architectural style. Offering impeccable services, and great hospitality, it also happens to be one of the last of all the family-run hotels in London.
Address: 15 Beeston Pl, Westminster, London
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 35,000 or 405 GBP
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2. Claridge’s, Mayfair
Set at a walking distance of just 5 minutes from the Bond Street tube station, Claridge’s Mayfair is one of the luxurious London hotels which is much famed for its unique art decor. Considered to be an epitome of sophistication and elegance, expect nothing less than 5-star treatment at this posh hotel.
Address: Brook Street, Mayfair, London
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 34,000 or 390 GBP
3. The Zetter Townhouse, Clerkenwell
Located at a distance of just 5 minutes from the Farringdon train station, the Zetter Townhouse is set right behind the Zetter Hotel and is a 13-bedroom townhouse that portrays the Victorian style of architecture. Featuring an in-house cocktail lounge, the Zetter Townhouse serves the dual purpose of offering luxury accommodation as well as being a thriving party hotspot.
Address: 49-50, St. John’s Square, Clerkenwell, London
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 21,500 or 245 GBP
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4. Andaz Hotel, Liverpool Street
Check yourself into the most exquisite and lavish hotels of London – the Andaz is built in a distinct style that brings together a blend of modern, luxurious and spacious rooms to cater to all kinds of travellers. Christmas at Andaz is celebrated quite literally in an Andaz way – join in the festive cheer take part in the carol service and enjoy your stay here during Christmas.
Address: Andaz Hotel, 40 Liverpool St, London EC2M 7QN, United Kingdom
Average Price/Night: INR 23,158
5. Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard
To enjoy the best views of Christmas in London, Shangri-La is the best hotel to check yourself into. Shangri-La is the best hotel for witnessing the Christmas lights in London from floor-to-ceiling windows in your room. You could also indulge in a Christmas feast at the hotel and enjoy a lavish spread along with magnificent views of the lit-up streets of London during Christmas.
Address: Shangri-La Hotel, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9QU, United Kingdom
Average Price/Night: Starting at INR 30,000
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6. K West Hotel & Spa
Cosy-up with your partner and spend your Christmas night in this hotel that features spacious and stylish rooms with warm tones and all the amenities. Spend Christmas in the warmth of your loved ones, celebrate the togetherness and bond over Christmas shenanigans.
Address: K West Hotel & Spa, Richmond Way, Hammersmith, London W14 0AX, United Kingdom
Average Price/Night: INR 11,226
Other Hotels: The Dorchester in Hyde Park, Charlotte Street Hotel in Bloomsbury, The Langham, London in Marylebone, and The Ritz London in Mayfair.
Best Restaurants For Christmas In London 2024
Want to relish a turkey or would roasted potatoes with yams would be enough? Whatever your choices may be, these best restaurants in London are a must-visit during Christmas in London.
- Aqua Shard, London Bridge
- Mac & Wild, Fitzrovia
- Duck & Waffle, Heron Tower
- Norma
- Julie’s
- Monsieur Le Duck
1. Aqua Shard, London Bridge
Set on the 31st floor of the Shard and offering stunning views of the skyline, you will miss a great deal if you don’t dine at the Aqua Shard. With the Executive Chef of Anthony Garlando creating magic with his three Michelin-starred experience, every dish he creates is worth relishing when combined with the mesmerizing views of London.
Must Try: Beef Tartare
Location: Level 31, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London
Timings: Monday to Friday – 7 am until midnight; Weekend: 9 am until midnight
Average Meal For Two: Starts from INR 3,500 or 40 GBP (tax excluded)
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2. Mac & Wild, Fitzrovia
Bring the best of Scottish street food to the table for citizens of London, Mac & Wild has been treating its guests with the best of delicious meat dishes. Serving the best-in-class cuisines, the seasonal Scottish produce is a must-try at this unique restaurant.
Must Try: Honey Mustard Beef Chipolatas, Ribeye, and Chateaubriand Venison
Location: 65 Great Titchfield St, Fitzrovia, London
Timings: Monday to Wednesday – 12 noon to 3.30 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm; Thursday & Friday – 12 noon to 3.30 pm and 6 pm until midnight; Saturday – 6 pm until midnight; Sundays Closed
Cuisine: Seafood, and Scottish
Average Meal For Two: Starts from INR 3,000 or 35 GBP (tax excluded)
3. Duck & Waffle, Heron Tower
Set on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck & Waffle is yet another restaurant that leaves no stone unturned in surprising you with Christmas specials. Serving the best of British cuisine infused with traditional European flavours, get ready to witness the dazzling city of London like never before. If you are planning a Christmas Eve party in London, then you can consider this place.
Must Try: Duck Confit, Sushi, and Belgian Waffles
Location: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours
Cuisine: British, and European
Average Meal For Two: Starts from INR 7,500 or 85 GBP (tax excluded)
Other Restaurants: Café Murano, The Culpeper, Elena’s L’Etoile, The Empress, and Taberna do Mercado.
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4. Norma
Norma is one of the best places to visit in London at Christmas. It’s an Italian restaurant located in the uptown boutique hotel, The Stafford. Celebrate Christmas with Chef Ben Tish’s master creations and indulge in a wholesome Christmas feast at this contemporary restaurant. Celebrate Christmas in Sicilian style, you can either choose from a two or three-course meal in a private dining space.
Must try: Old Spot Pork, Black cabbage, roast potatoes and aubergine parmigiana.
Location: Norma, 8 Charlotte St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 2LS, United Kingdom
Timings: 11:30 am – 12 am
5. Julie’s
This restaurant is a must-visit for celebrating London Christmas. Join in the big celebration of Christmas and Julie’s 50th year anniversary. 2022 is Julie’s 50th year and they have all the plans of taking the celebrations a level up by introducing a special lunch menu. Gather your friends and head to experience the festive cheer at Julie’s and gorge on mouth-watering delicacies as you give in to the festive cheer. This is a modern British restaurant with intimate interiors, quirky rooms, and a terrace decked with pretty decor.
Must try: Chicken Liver Parfait, Orange blossom ice cream
Location: 135 Portland Rd, Holland Park, London W11 4LW, United Kingdom
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6. Monsieur Le Duck
Inspired by the douceur de vivre of Gascony, Monsieur Le Duck brings the food and wine of South-West France to the heart of London and any Christmas meal is incomplete without a glass of wine that you can savour along with your delicious meal. Soak in the mellow, rustic and classy vibes of this restaurant and indulge in a succulent meal that is carefully crafted by talented chefs of this friendly restaurant that is the brainchild of three fervent travellers. Celebrate Christmas Day in London with a glass of wine and delicious duck.
Must try: Duck Wellington, Yorkshire pudding
Location: 27 Clerkenwell Rd, Farringdon, London, United Kingdom
Timings: 11 am – 5 pm
London Weather In December
The weather in London in December is perfectly in sync with conditions that are required for Christmas celebrations. With the whole city laden with snow, December happens to be one of the coldest times in London.
Nonetheless, the weather is so fascinating during December, that people from all over the world plan their Christmas trips to London for a memorable vacation. The whole month is quite freezing with an average temperature of 6°C. On the contrary, such weather in London is what makes the festive season merrier. Therefore, during the season of Christmas in London weather is remarkable for those holiday vibes.
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Average Budget Per Day Per Person In London 2024
Taking the basics into consideration as that of flights, accommodation, meals, and transfers, an average budget per person per day during Christmas in London would be:
Flights: INR 45,000 for a round trip (based on bookings done 30 days prior to departure)
Average Accommodation: Starts from INR 4,000 (double sharing basis & tax excluded)
Meals: INR 3,500 (Lunch & Dinner)
Sightseeing: INR 2,000
Transfers: INR 2,500
Miscellaneous: INR 3,000
Average Budget Per Day Per Person In London: 4000 + 3500 + 2000 + 2500 + 3000 = INR 15,000
Please Note:
- Flights are not included in the average budget per day per person as it may differ for various destinations.
- Breakfast is not included in the budget as most of the hotels include it in the accommodation itself.
- This is a rough estimate of how much a person can spend per day in London.
- Prices may change based on the peak season, time of booking, inclusions, and exclusions.
Tips For Christmas In London
- Pack an adequate number of woollens to keep you warm and away from frostbite. London’s weather could be quite harsh.
- Be sure to get yourself an Oyster plastic smartcard through which you pay on the go for travelling via bus, London Overground, tubes, TfL Rail, trams, DLR, Emirates Airline, and river bus services in London.
- Winter Wonderland is a must-experience for families, couples, friends, and solo travellers alike.
- Do not miss out on huge discounts and make the most of shopping for your favourite brands during Christmas in London.
- If time allows, watch a stunning live performance at the Royal Opera House.
- Relish the best of local dishes and street food while you walk along the shimmering riverside of the River Thames.
- Do not forget to purchase handmade products and gifts from the Handmade Christmas Market that is held at the O2 Arena in the Live Quarter area.
- Also, book your flight tickets and hotel accommodation well in advance for more savings.
- Irrespective of whether the expenditure cost surges or subsides, be sure to carry extra cash with you.
- Keep this guide handy without fail.
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Feeling festive already? Let the royal city surprise you with special encounters throughout your journey during Christmas in London. Plan a winter holiday trip to London and when you come back, don’t forget to share your cherished memories with us at travelogues@traveltriangle.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas In London
What are Christmas markets in London Hyde Park?
The best place to enjoy Christmas in London is at Hyde Park which is lit up beautifully. There are more than 200 wooden Bavarian chalets from where you can buy Christmas gifts for your friends and family while you take a stroll through the park. Hyde Park has one of the best Christmas markets in London with many artisans, traders, and vendors selling Christmas goodies.
What are the Christmas traditions in London?
Pranking family and friends with Christmas Poppers, gorging on Mincemeat Pies and Christmas Puddings, burning a Yule log, and tuning into Queen’s Speech during the Christmas are few of the Christmas traditions in London.
Where can I see Christmas lights in London?
Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly Street, and Bond Street are some of the famous places to see Christmas Lights in London.
What are the best things to do at christmas in London?
Some of the ways with which people celebrate Christmas in London are:
1. Adoring the biggest Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square
2. Attending the midnight mass at Westminster Abbey
3. Attending Christmas Carol concerts
Is Christmas a good time to visit London?
Yes, Christmas is a very good time to visit London. The whole city is filled with lights, Christmas trees and cheerful people.
What is there to do in London in December?
Some of the best things to do in London in December are:
1. Enjoying Hyde Park
2. Learning history at Geffrye Museum
3. Strolling at the park
Will it snow in London in December?
It does not really snow in London in December. The weather is cold, and sunlight remains for a few hours only.
Where should I go in London for Christmas?
Some of the best places that you can visit in London for Christmas are Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and more.
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An empty vessel in Christ’s hands. Rest we can talk over chai. :)
