London in December is full of contrasts. It’s cold and crisp outside, yet indoors it's brimming with warmth, light and that special kind of energy that comes but once a year.
If you’re heading to the capital in search of the best things to do in London in December, you’re in for a treat. From classic Christmas attractions to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone.
Things to Do in London in December
I’ve visited London in December many times and it’s truly one of the best times of year to enjoy the capital.
So, fresh from my latest trip just a few days ago, here are some of my must-visit spots and experiences that will make your jaunt to London in December unforgettable.
1. Winter Wonderland London: Cliche? Maybe. Fun? Absolutely.
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Let’s start with the obvious. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a festive behemoth.
Expect a sprawling maze of rollercoasters, Bavarian beer halls and even a bar made entirely of ice.
Pack your gloves if you fancy holding your drink without frostbite and go early to dodge the crowds. Or lean in and make peace with the chaos.
2. Christmas Markets - Because, Why Not?
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London’s Christmas markets are legendary. Not only do they offer a chance to shop for unique gifts, they’re also great for overdosing on sausages and mulled wine.
Which is basically what Christmas is all about in the UK.
Here’s where you can get a slice of Christmas market action in the capital:
- Southbank Centre Winter Market - Located along the Thames, this riverside market is perfect for Christmas shopping and seasonal treats.
- Leadenhall Market - For something more charming and less crowded, this 14th-century covered market hall offers festive gifts and food in a picturesque setting.
- Greenwich Christmas Market - A little further out, but this market is worth it for its artisan vibe and cozy, less touristy atmosphere. There are also a host of other winter events in the area to check out.
- Spitalfields Market - Head East for a less-hectic but still-buzzing Christmas wander at Spitalfields Market. Just a stone's throw away, Brick Lane is packed with spots to eat and drink (don’t miss the famous bagels). Browse impressive street art and buy original pieces at galleries such as StolenSpace and Galleria Objets without breaking the bank.
Alternative Tip: For something different, head to the Yokomono Japanese Christmas Market in Dalston for cloth wrapping lessons, super-kawaii treats and cakes, noh dancing and folk songs.
3. Ice Skating: Classic or Cutting-Edge?
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You haven’t truly experienced winter in London until you’ve strapped on a pair of skates and humiliated yourself in front of a busy cultural landmark. Places you can do so include the following.
- Somerset House Ice Rink - One of London’s most elegant rinks, you can book to saunter across the ice past some of London’s grandest Georgian buildings.
- Glide at Battersea - If you don’t fancy taking the famous ascent to the top of Battersea Power Station, take advantage of the wintertime activities and skate past it instead.
- Winter Wonderland Ice Rink - If you want to go big, what better place to lace up than the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink? Located in the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland attraction, you’ll be surrounded by Christmas overload, including twinkling lights and a Victorian bandstand.
4. Kew Gardens at Christmas: Light Up Your Life
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If you fancy something a bit more serene, the illuminated trail at Kew Gardens is pure magic. Think fairy lights on steroids, with light tunnels and singing trees. Yes, singing trees.
At £32 entry per adult, it’s not cheap and is often booked up in advance, but if you love a garden space, this could be the wintery treat for you.
5. Hit the West End for a Festive Show
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London’s West End goes all out in December with its world-famous winter programme.
It’s a well-loved winter classic for a reason - The Nutcracker puts in an appearance most years and this year is on at the London Coliseum.
Relive the heartwarming transformation of everyone’s favourite miser with A Christmas Carol at the Old Vic.
If slapstick winter fun is your thing, check out this year’s top-rated pantomimes.
6. Get a Twinkle in Your Eye at the Light Displays
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London’s Christmas lights are world-famous and rightly so. Prepare yourself for the crowds and make sure to visit:
- Oxford Street for the grand display.
- Regent Street for its iconic lights.
- Covent Garden for a more intimate and charming Christmas vibe.
Alternative Tip: With its quirky, contemporary light displays, Carnaby Street is a good spot to liven up your winter photo album.
7. Yo-ho-ho! See the City from the Water
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Get off the streets and see the city from the waves with a winter Thames cruise.
These festive cruises provide a unique way to see London’s light displays and landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye from the water.
Warm up with a hot drink as you glide along the river.
8. Reflect on the Season at St. Paul’s Cathedral
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For those seeking more reflective things to do in London in December, St. Paul’s Cathedral has a full programme of services.
Or simply visit to see the building in its festive garb. The cathedral’s striking interior and seasonal decorations make it a peaceful retreat from the busy streets.
9. Go Full English with a Christmas Afternoon Tea
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A quintessential British experience, afternoon tea at one of London’s iconic hotels takes on a festive twist in December.
Treat yourself to a Christmas-themed afternoon tea at Claridge’s, The Ritz or The Savoy, where you’ll enjoy festive treats like mince pies, gingerbread and seasonal pastries.
10. Get Fired Up in an Historic Pub
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London’s historic pubs are at their best in December - log fires, locals and travellers alike chatting away and the smell of mulled wine warming the air.
Here are some of my favourite London pubs that always have that warm wintery indoor vibe at this time of year.
- The George Inn near London Bridge in Southwark
- The John Snow in Soho
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street
- The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden
- The legendary Gordon’s Wine Bar at Embankment
11. Have an Alt Winter in Camden - Jazz, Cheese and Cocktails
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Camden isn’t just for market stalls selling questionable band tees. Here are some things to keep you busy in December in this iconic alt neighbourhood.
- Catch Some Music - Pop in for a wintery gig at one of Camden’s famous venues, such as Jazz Cafe or Roundhouse. Nothing beats live music when it’s freezing outside.
- Get your cheese on - Camden’s cheese bar couldn’t be a more perfect winter spot. Elbow for precedence over a fondue, pull at a mozzarella stick or enjoy a blue cheese raclette to make you forget it’s dark by 4pm.
- Cozy cocktails - Enjoy some winter stiffeners by the fire at Camden’s many cocktail bars - well-regarded spots include the Colonel Fawcett, Blues Kitchen and Simmons Bar.
12. A Quiet Christmas Walk at Westminster
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For a quieter experience, head to the Houses of Parliament on Christmas Day. It’s a great spot for a reflective winter walk.
While you won’t be able to tour the building, the area itself will be peaceful and the views along the Thames are especially scenic in December.
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