Christmas in London 2025: Essential guide to markets, lights & festive things to do

London turns truly magical at Christmas. Think glittering light displays, cosy riverside markets, seasonal ice rinks, and special shows across the West End. Use this guide to plan your 2025 festive trip—covering the best markets and events, where to see the most impressive lights, winter activities, travel tips, and where to stay.

When to visit London at Christmas

London’s festive season typically runs from mid-November to early January. You’ll see lights and markets from early November, building to peak buzz in December.

• Best balance: Mid–late November offers switched-on lights, open markets, and lighter crowds than December.
• December: Peak atmosphere and busiest days (especially weekends). Book ahead for popular attractions and dining.
• Christmas Day: Many attractions close and public transport shuts down. Boxing Day brings sales; New Year’s Eve/Day feature big celebrations.

Best holiday events & Christmas markets

Start with these headline events and add a couple of neighbourhood markets for variety.

• Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park — 14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026. London’s biggest festive attraction with rides, shows, a vast market and the UK’s largest outdoor rink. Entry is free off-peak and ticketed at standard/peak times.
• Southbank Winter Market — 3 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026. Riverside chalets for street food, mulled drinks and gifts, with glorious Thames views. Closed 25 & 31 Dec and 1 Jan.
• Leicester Square Christmas Market — Classic West End spot with food, crafts and seasonal shows.
• Trafalgar Square Market & Christmas Tree — Carol singing and a charming market beneath the iconic tree gifted by Norway.
• More to explore: Kingston Christmas Market, Old Spitalfields at Christmas, King’s Cross pop-ups, Borough Market’s seasonal food.

Where to see Christmas lights & decorations

• Oxford Street & Regent Street: The city’s most famous displays; go on a weekday evening if you can.
• Carnaby Street: Creative, themed lights every year—great for photos.
• Covent Garden: A huge Christmas tree in the Piazza and spectacular decorations in the historic market hall.
• Harrods & Knightsbridge: Thousands of lights, luxury window displays and a classic festive feel.
• Churchill Arms (Kensington): A local favourite pub that goes all-in with trees and lights.

London turns truly magical at Christmas. Think glittering light displays, cosy riverside markets, seasonal ice rinks, and special shows across the West End. Use this guide to plan your 2025 festive trip—covering the best markets and events, where to see the most impressive lights, winter activities, travel tips, and where to stay.

When to visit London at Christmas

London’s festive season typically runs from mid-November to early January. You’ll see lights and markets from early November, building to peak buzz in December.

• Best balance: Mid–late November offers switched-on lights, open markets, and lighter crowds than December.
• December: Peak atmosphere and busiest days (especially weekends). Book ahead for popular attractions and dining.
• Christmas Day: Many attractions close and public transport shuts down. Boxing Day brings sales; New Year’s Eve/Day feature big celebrations.

Best holiday events & Christmas markets

Start with these headline events and add a couple of neighbourhood markets for variety.

• Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park — 14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026. London’s biggest festive attraction with rides, shows, a vast market and the UK’s largest outdoor rink. Entry is free off-peak and ticketed at standard/peak times.
• Southbank Winter Market — 3 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026. Riverside chalets for street food, mulled drinks and gifts, with glorious Thames views. Closed 25 & 31 Dec and 1 Jan.
• Leicester Square Christmas Market — Classic West End spot with food, crafts and seasonal shows.
• Trafalgar Square Market & Christmas Tree — Carol singing and a charming market beneath the iconic tree gifted by Norway.
• More to explore: Kingston Christmas Market, Old Spitalfields at Christmas, King’s Cross pop-ups, Borough Market’s seasonal food.

Where to see Christmas lights & decorations

• Oxford Street & Regent Street: The city’s most famous displays; go on a weekday evening if you can.
• Carnaby Street: Creative, themed lights every year—great for photos.
• Covent Garden: A huge Christmas tree in the Piazza and spectacular decorations in the historic market hall.
• Harrods & Knightsbridge: Thousands of lights, luxury window displays and a classic festive feel.
• Churchill Arms (Kensington): A local favourite pub that goes all-in with trees and lights.

Best winter activities in London

• Ice skating rinks:
  • Somerset House: 12 Nov 2025 – 11 Jan 2026, the city’s most iconic rink with a giant tree and DJ nights.
  • Winter Wonderland rink: 14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026, the UK’s largest outdoor rink under a canopy of lights.
  • Canary Wharf rink: 25 Oct 2025 – 22 Feb 2026, a sleek, weather-proofed option with a roof.
• Guided Christmas lights tours: Open-top bus tours take you past the biggest displays without planning your own route.
• Thames river cruise: Book after 4pm for illuminated skyline views; look for special festive menus and live entertainment.
• Museums: Many are free (Natural History Museum, Science Museum) and host seasonal events or late openings.
• Afternoon tea: The Ritz, Claridge’s and The Dorchester offer festive takes on the tradition—book early.
• West End shows: Expect Christmas classics (e.g., A Christmas Carol) and family favourites alongside blockbuster musicals.

Suggested 3-day Christmas itinerary

Short on time? This sample plan hits the highlights without rushing.

• Day 1: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland ? Oxford Street & Regent Street lights ? dinner in Soho or Mayfair.
• Day 2: Covent Garden & Seven Dials ? Thames evening cruise ? West End show.
• Day 3: Southbank Winter Market ? museums in South Kensington ? festive afternoon tea.

Where to stay in London at Christmas

To be close to lights, markets and theatres, consider these areas:

• Covent Garden / Leicester Square: Perfect for first-time visitors and theatre lovers.
• Mayfair: Luxury stays near major sights and shopping streets.
• Knightsbridge / Kensington: Handy for Harrods, museums and peaceful residential streets.

Short stays with The Stay Club: If you prefer serviced, great-value accommodation, see our post on Christmas short stays in London featuring North Acton (adults & families) and student-only stays in Camden and Kentish Town.

Getting around London at Christmas

• Public transport: The Underground, Overground and buses run frequently; Christmas Day has no public transport.
• Paying fares: Tap in/out with contactless or Oyster—super easy for visitors.
• Plan routes: Use Transport for London (TfL) for live updates and journey planning.

Weather & what to pack

• Temperatures: Typically 3–10 °C; evenings feel colder with damp air and wind.
• Daylight: Sunset around 4 pm—plan lights-focused activities for late afternoon/evening.
• Essentials: Layers, waterproof jacket, warm hat/scarf, comfortable waterproof shoes.

Top tips for a smooth trip

• Book popular attractions, skating sessions and afternoon tea in advance.
• Visit the biggest light displays on weekday evenings to avoid peak crowds.
• Check service status and planned closures on TfL before you set out.
• Make restaurant reservations for Fridays/Saturdays in December.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Christmas season in London?

From mid-November to early January. Major events run from early/mid November into the first days of January.

Do I need tickets for Winter Wonderland?

Entry is free at off-peak times and ticketed at standard/peak hours. Popular attractions inside (e.g., ice rink, shows) require separate booking.

Which Christmas markets are best for first-timers?

Start with Hyde Park Winter Wonderland for scale and variety, then Southbank Market for riverside ambience. Add Leicester Square or Trafalgar Square for compact, central experiences.

Where are the best Christmas lights?

Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden are the big four; Knightsbridge (Harrods) and the Churchill Arms are great photo stops.

Is London busy at Christmas?

Yes—especially weekend evenings in December. Arrive earlier in the day or target weekdays for a calmer experience.

Where should I stay?

Pick a central area for easy walking to lights and theatres (Covent Garden/Leicester Square, Mayfair, Knightsbridge/Kensington). For flexible short stays, see our guide to The Stay Club in North Acton, Camden and Kentish Town.