Wondering what to do during Christmas in London? I’ve done tons of research into finding the best Christmas lights in London, the best Christmas events in London, and the best Christmas afternoon tea in London. Instagram is my favorite tool for finding the best London spots. I used blogs, news outlets, and Pinterest to find the best holiday activities in London.
NGL. I’m super sad due to an accident that almost cost my father his life. I should have been in London enjoying the holidays with my mom, but neither of us felt right leaving at a crucial moment. To cheer myself up, I’m doing extensive research into London during the holidays. I do look forward the 2023 Christmas season and cannot wait to see all the Christmas lights around London.
There’s lots of things to do in London at Christmas from Santa’s grotto, to Christmas lights around London, Christmas shopping in London, and Christmas markets in London.
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- The Best Christmas Afternoon Tea in London
- The Most Instagrammable Places in London
- The Most Instagrammable Cafes in London
Christmas Afternoon Tea London
These are my top five picks for Christmas afternoon tea in London. For more choices and a detailed list of the best festive Christmas teas in London, check out my blog post here.
1. B Bakery Afternoon Tea London Bus Tour
This tour kicks it off like no other with the incredible Christmas lights and views. You’ll start with finger sandwiches and savory muffins followed by sweet, handmade patisserie treats like chocolate cupcakes and yuzu meringue tarts. They will be served alongside our classic scones with clotted cream and jam, plus the usual scrumptious selection of Brigit’s Teas.
2. Savoy Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea at Savoy is considered one of the BEST luxury high teas in London. With the gorgeous decorations and festive flavors, you’re bound to have one magic filled afternoon. Their tea begins with a mix of traditional finger and open sandwiches, alongside freshly baked scones with clotted cream and lemon curd. You’ll indulge in a selection of festive sweet treats, plus a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, which is presented on a bespoke oak wood trolley dressed as a miniature replica of The Savoy Theatre.
3. The Ivy Asia Christmas Afternoon Tea
Would this be Gina Bear’s blog without a little Asian inspiration? 😉 The Ivy Asia across London is partnering exclusively with Champagne Laurent-Perrier for a glitzy and glamorous handcrafted afternoon tea. The menu will feature handmade aromatic duck spring rolls, steaming vegetable dumplings and hand-rolled ripe avocado maki rolls. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be a selection of Japanese mochi, with fresh mini chocolate samurai and warm passionfruit and coconut doughnuts to indulge in.
4. Shangri-La at the Shard London TĪNG Festive Afternoon Tea
Relax with panoramic views over London as you enjoy tea, delicate finger sandwiches, and savory delights. Plain and Raisin scones will be served alongside delicious charming designed pastries, including Paris Brest, Cinnamon Plum Tart, complete with a marvellous Spiced Pear and Vanilla Christmas Shard pastry to share.
5. The Rotunda Bar & Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
The Rotunda’s festive afternoon tea will kick off with classic finger sandwiches like smoked salmon, dill and capers, and coronation turkey. Enjoy a Christmas-themed patisserie such as The Reindeer, made with pear marmalade, lime zest chantilly, and peanut biscuit. You’ll get to try The Bauble, a chestnut mousse with a golden mandarin and saffron glaze – all served on a special Santa’s Sleigh. Of course there will be freshly baked scones, seasonal jams, lemon curd, and Devonshire clotted cream.
Christmas in London Tour
- London Christmas Lights Bus Tour – See a different side of London on an open-top bus tour that reveals the best of the city’s Christmas lights. Sitting on the top deck gives you panoramic views of England’s capital, including top attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- Magical Christmas Walking Tour in London – If you’re looking for the best Christmas lights London walking route, then this is your tour. Your journey starts at Charing Cross Station. From there, you’ll walk around to see Regent’s Street Christmas Lights, Piccadilly Circus, Carnaby Soho Lights, Mayfair’s bright and bold high-class shopping district, London Palladium and much more. The tour ends at the infamous Winter Wonderland where you are free to go on and enjoy a new wonderful adventure.
- Hogwarts in the Snow Tour – Harry Potter is best enjoyed in autumn and winter. And what better way to celebrate the spirit of the holidays than with Hogwarts in the snow? You’ll be treated to the Great Hall decorated in gorgeous twinkling lights and decorations.
- Bruges Christmas Market Day Tour From London – One of the most stunning cities (and hidden gems in Europe) is Bruges. It’s a charming city in Belgium that makes you feel like you’re in a fairytale.
- London Christmas Market Tour – If you’ve ever wanted to explore London’s charming and festive markets, this is the tour to do it! You’ll begin at the traditional market of Covent Garden, head to the shores of the Thames River for the Southbank market, and travel by boat to maritime Greenwich for one last cozy market experience.
Places to see Christmas Lights in London
I think we can all agree no matter as we age is that Christmas lights really bring the magic of the holiday alive. Which is why I looked for all the best places to see Christmas lights in London.
When do Christmas lights in London go on?
Festive Lights in London will start the beginning of November and end the first week of January. In an effort to be mindful of the housing crisis in England, the sparkling LED lights will run for shorter hours and a shorter period of time.
1. Regent Street
The Regent Street Christmas lights are probably the most well-known as I’m sure at one point you’ve seen them on social media. The angelic light display is known as ‘The Spirits of Christmas’ and is the largest of its kind in the country. The 45 spirits flying over shoppers are covered in hundreds of thousands of LED lights. I truly believe this display is one of the the best Christmas lights in London!
When: November 9, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Regent Street, London, W1B 4EA
2. Oxford Street
If you’re into starry aesthetic, the 2022 iteration of the display will feature 5,000 stunningly illuminated stars, lit up every night of the festive period. Oxford Street Christmas lights are truly a feast for the eyes. You can count on Oxford Street as the best place for Christmas lights in London.
When: November 2, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Oxford Street, London, W1D 1BS
3. Marylebone Village
The Marylebone Village Christmas lights event usually kicks off in style with a special event on the first day. They begin the Christmas season with a festive light switch-on in support of mental health charity partner Mind in Brent Wandsworth and Westminster. To celebrate, retailers and restaurants offer exclusive promotions, festive experiences, gifts with purchase and specially curated menus throughout the day. You’ll indulge in live music, Santa’s grotto, and fairground rides.
When: November 10, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Marylebone High Street, London, W1U
4. Christmas at Kew
You may have seen the gorgeous Christmas at Kew trail of lights on Instagram. This year, Christmas at Kew is bigger and better than ever! Enjoy five new installations, including an incredible immersive animation at Holly Walk by NOVAK, and Illusion Hole by UxU Studio which is a mesmerizing optical illusion that plays with the fluidity of water on the lake. You can book your tickets for Christmas at Kew here.
When: November 16, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London TW9 3AE
5. Chelsea
The Chelsea Christmas lights brings to life a sparkling neighborhood, glittering trees, seasonal menus, al fresco dining aplenty, fantastic shopping and unmissable events. They have a magical Santa’s Grotto open on Sloane Square, along with a Bavarian Curling Rink, and delicious festive food and drink.
When: November 19, 2022 – December 24, 2022
Address: Sloane Square, London, SW1W 8SB
6. Seven Dials
This year, Seven Dials Christmas lights takes it up a notch with brand new ideas and displays. Enjoy sparkling starbursts illuminating the seven streets through cozy hues of ombre amber and pink. The Neal’s Yard Festive Arch will light up with a tap point donation to The Connection.
When: November 17, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Seven Dials Sundial Pillar, London, WC2H 9HD
7. Covent Garden
You can’t have Christmas in London without lighting up one of the trendiest neighborhoods! The Covent Garden Christmas lights bring it in with a stunning tree in the open square. This year will see the return of iconic decorations, festive markets, and many mulled wine varieties. Covent Garden also hosts a gorgeous Christmas market.
When: November 8, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London, WC2H 7AR
8. Carnaby Street
The Carnaby Street Christmas lights are pretty fantastic in their eccentricity. Each year, tribute is paid to pop culture and recognizable statues around the world. This year, Carnaby Street will feature palm trees, a glittering Rolling Stones tongues, a giant snowman, and planets, all partying together in the dark night skies.
When: November 8, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Address: Carnaby Street, London, W1F 9PS
9. Bond Street
On Bond street you’ll find the gorgeous store fronts of Cartier, Tiffany & Co, and Dior. The Bond Street Christmas lights have new royal themed Christmas lights displays in honor of Queen Elizabeth’s jubilee.
When: November 18, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Address: Bond Street, London, W1S 1SP
10. Connaught Village
Inspired by the popular film Love Actually, this Christmas display has a Christmas tree that isn’t quite what you imagined. The Connaught Village Christmas lights are definitely unique. This year’s tree is just an actual tree with neon hearts all over it and legit, I’m not mad about it.
When: November 17, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Address: Connaught Street, London, W2 2AA
11. South Molton Street
The iconic South Molton Street blue arches are a wonderful way to sleigh into the season! This dazzling Christmas lights display features a whopping 63,000 lights. It’s located in Mayfair next to an exclusive shopping hub just off Oxford Street.
When: November 16, 2022 – December 23, 2022
12. Windsor Castle
This winter experience the State Apartments decorated for Christmas. The festive display includes a magnificent centerpiece, a 20-foot high (6 meter) tree in St George’s Hall, taken from Windsor Great Park and dressed with hundreds of twinkling lights and ornaments.You can buy tickets to see the spectacular decorations and Christmas lights at Windsor Castle here.
When: November 24, 2022 – January 2, 2023
Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom
Where To Go Ice Skating in London
1. Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Bundle up and take in the magnificent views of this beautiful Tudor palace as you glide around this stunning outdoor ice rink. Skate under the stars with your loved one or make magical memories on a day out with the kids at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. If you’re interested in this event, you can book your ice skating tickets here.
When: November 17, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Where: Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
2. Somerset House Ice Rink
Somerset House comes alive during the holiday season. The magnificent ice rink, now with bigger skate space, transforms the neoclassical courtyard into the essential winter destination. It comes complete with a glorious 40 foot Christmas tree and specially curated decorations from Moët & Chandon, providing perfect picture moments.
When: November 16, 2022 – January 15, 2023
Where: Strand, London WC2R 1LA
3. Skylight London Ice Rink
This is definitely an ice skating rink I can get behind. Skylight Bar has a gorgeous ice rink with incredible views of London’s skyline and festive igloos. They have skating sessions, and of course, all the holiday foods and drinks.
Where: Tobacco Dock, London E1W 2SF, United Kingdom
4. Canary Wharf Ice Skating Rink
The Canary Wharf Ice Rink is one of London’s largest rooftop skating rinks. Their event runs for a grand total of 18 weeks. This year promises to be the most spectacular yet. Skate under the starry lights come rain or shine!
When: October 22, 2022 – February 25, 2023
Where: Canada Square, London E14 5AB
London Christmas Markets
London Christmas Markets are among the best Christmas events in London. You’ll be treated to mulled wine, unique gifts for loved ones (maybe a thing or two for yourself), and plenty of tasty winter treats.
1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
I’m excited to visit Hyde Park Winter Wonderland! They have various unique activities like viewing ice sculptures and even having a drink or three in their ice bar. (In case you were wondering, yes, it is completely made out of ice.) Surrounded by sparkling lights, grab your mulled wine, hot chocolate or stein of Bavarian beer and get ready to join in the festive fun! FYI their customer service and refund policy sucks. You have been warned.
When: November 18, 2022 – January 2, 2023
Address: Hyde Park, Serpentine Rd, London W2 2UH
2. Trafalgar Square
London’s city center gets a makeover with Trafagler Square becoming a lovely popup Christmas market. Next, shop for beautiful hand-crafted goods, enjoy your choice of Mulled Wine or Cider, Hot Chocolate, soft drink and festive food offerings.
When: November 11, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Address: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN
3. Kingston Christmas Market
Here you can enjoy a European Christmas market in a traditional British setting. Venture over to picturesque Kingston upon Thames, where you can search the riverside town’s Ancient Market Place for unique Christmas gifts at the Kingston Christmas Market. The cozy cabins come packed with a range of handmade arts and crafts, beautiful decorations and stocking fillers.
When: November 10, 2022 – December 24, 2022
Address: London KT1 1JS
4. King’s Cross Christmas Markets
At the King’s Cross Christmas Markets, you’ll find Japanese homeware, independent fashion, artisan gifts and handmade crafts across the many different markets. Pick up warm drinks, hearty food and vegan treats while you shop.
When: November 11, 2022 – December 22, 2022
Where: West Handyside Canopy, 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
5. Borough Market at Christmas
Christmas at Borough Market will delight you with their wide selections of foods, cheeses, and wine. Don’t miss their spectacular event called An Evening of Cheese on December 15th where you can enjoy tastings, seek expert advice and put together a festive cheeseboard featuring the highest quality cheeses from Britain, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
When: November 15, 2022 – January 9, 2023
Where: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL
Best Christmas Displays in London
These are my picks for some of the best festive displays in London. I was planning on going myself and now I’m sharing them with you. I’ll definitely be looking back on these displays next year for a little inspiration. If you’re looking to get the best Instagrammable holiday photos in London, then this is your list.
Anabel’s Mayfair
34 Mayfair
Tiffany & Co Bond Street
Dior Bond Street
Cartier Bond Street
Chelsea London
Peggy Porschen
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Mr. Foggs Tavern
Elan Cafe
Koyn London
50 Cheyne
Covent Garden
The Savoy
St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London
Harrods London
Churchill Arms
Now you know what to do during Christmas in London. I hope you’ve been inspired with all the amazing Christmas activities London has to offer.
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