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London comes alive like no other place in December. The capital of England transforms into a magical and vibrant city with an abundance of offerings. From enchanting winter markets to unforgettable seasonal shows, there are countless fun and exciting activities to add to your itinerary.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or the tenth, traveling with family or solo, London offers an abundance of exciting activities to explore in this radiant city, ensuring your visit is truly unforgettable.
1. Visit Winter Wonderland
Winter in London means many things but one thing in particular, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Think Ferris wheel, endless food stalls, giant-sized rides, winter markets and bars, ice skating, and lots more. Hyde Park transforms into an exhilarating, life-sized winter theme park for all ages to enjoy, so whether you are with your family or with friends it is a great memory to make.
Winter Wonderland is a popular destination and one of the largest celebratory gatherings of the season. So, make sure you add this must-see activity to your calendar.
Top Tip: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has some activities, which can get booked pretty quickly so be sure to book in advance to enjoy some of the best activities Winter Wonderland has to offer.
2. Explore The Winter Markets
London’s streets are bustling with winter markets in December. Imagine strolling through traditional markets filled with laughter, unique gifts, and delicious culinary delights to feast on and drinks to enjoy.
London’s winter markets are a wonderful place to meet with friends and a fantastic place to relax with family after a long day at work.
Top Tip: You can find some of London’s best winter Markets in Southbank Centre Winter Market and Leicester Square Market and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, just to name a few.
3. See The Winter Light Trails
London’s skies are littered with a beautiful array of lights in December, with twinkling angels, festoon lighting, gigantic light illusions, and colorful winter light trails so get your camera ready to mark the moment. From Oxford Street, Regent Street to Covenant Garden, the Christmas lights are a wow moment, to really bring home the festive season.
Top Tip A great place to start your Christmas light viewing is at Kew Gardens, located in Kew, Richmond, London TW9 3AE. Others include Regent Street, W1B 4EA, Oxford Street, W1D 1BS, Coal Drops Yard, N1C 4DQ, and Marylebone Village, Q1U.
4. Go Winter Rooftop Bar Hopping
A visit to London in December is not complete without a drink to warm you up in the chilly weather. That is why you cannot visit London without exploring the rooftop bars.
There are several rooftop bars with magnificent views, heated spaces, and a buzzing atmosphere to make the moment full circle across London.
Top Tip: Here are a few rooftop bars to add to your diary; The Rooftop, Trafalgar St. James, SW1A 2TS, and The Lucky Club in Camden, NW1 8AH, which are great if you have a few more pounds to splash. Another to add is London Bridge Rooftop, SE1 2SX. which is more casual and less expensive.
5. Glide around London’s Iconic Ice Rinks
You get more than you ask for in London in December. Ice skating comes bundled with scenic views, amazing music, and great hot food and drinks. It does not get better than that.
This is the perfect way to keep moving in the chilly weather. Make sure you add this must-experience activity to your to-do list with your friends and family this December.
Top Tip: The first to open this year is Canary Wharf so book early to reserve your spot. Other great ice rinks across London include Glide at Battersea Power Station, and the iconic Skate at Somerset House Ice Rink.
6. Enjoy a Christmas Show
Take the edge of an unwind with one or two or more shows like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, or Aladdin at one of London’s theatres.
A theatre play is a wonderful way to fully immerse yourself in the season. London Theatre Direct offers many theatre products that you can pre-book now.
Top Tip: There are many theatres with easy access to and from the most popular theatre locations. Here are a few theatre spots to get you started – Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, London WC2H 7BX, Polka Main Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB, and The Old Vic, The Cut, London SE1 8NB.
7. Discover Christmas at Hogwarts
Watch the classic Harry Potter stories come alive right in front of you. Immerse yourself in the interactive film sets for a fun adventure. Explore the iconic sets, props, costumes, and more at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
End your time at Warner Bros. Studio with a celebratory party including a DJ, dance floor, food, and drinks.
Top Tip: Warner Bros. Studio has a variety of packages, which include a studio tour, hotel packages, afternoon tea, souvenir gift tickets, and transfer packages.
8. Attend a Melodic Carol Concert
Feel awe-inspired by the sound of carols at St. Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey this December. Better yet why not join in with the sing-along at the carol concert of the season at the Royal Albert Hall.
These special concerts have become an essential part of the winter season in London to celebrate this time of the year.
Top Tip: Trafalgar Square, Royal Albert, St Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, where some of the best carol concerts take place.
9. Recline at The Backyard Cinema
Backyard Cinema is an all-year favourite, but it’s especially unique in the winter. Snuggle up in their cosy cinema venue, sink into their giant beanbags, while watching your favourite film, and experience a screening at Backyard Cinema like never before.
This themed cinema is an immersive experience from the moment you enter.
Top Tip: If you arrive early or decide to stay late, you can head into the brand-new retro cabaret bar inside a circus tent with live music and performances. Grab yourself a Backyard pizza and a mug of hot spiced mulled wine or an indulgent hot chocolate and enjoy the movie.
10. Get Cosy and Dine at a Winter Terrace
Cosy up this winter on an outdoor terrace for dinner and enjoy the vibrant city sound, and good music with family and friends. It is simply magical.
Hawk Nest is a beautiful place to start. They provide great food, and it's a wonderful atmosphere to be in. Another great spot is The Happenstance. London has a variety of great dining spots to help you unwind this December.
Top Tip: Book ahead of time to get great seats, the best view.