It’s one of the most quintessential places to visit for the holidays, and there’s a reason why so many families want to spend Christmas in London. Imagine crisp morning walks spotting shire horses in Hyde Park or evening walks underneath twinkling Christmas lights – there’s magic in every corner of the capital to excite kids and parents. Here’s our pick of the best things to do and places to go if you’re looking to spend Christmas in London.
1. See Carnaby Street
Located just off Oxford Circus, this beautiful shopping street is a must-visit at Christmas time. The pedestrianized road is decorated with the most creative festive lights (to rival the neighboring lights in Regent Street and Oxford Street) and is home to Liberty department store, one of the city’s most iconic listed buildings where you can spend hours browsing.
2. Visit the South Bank Center
Avoid the tourists swarming the streets along the South Bank and head inside to one of the cultural venues that make up the South Bank Center. The collection includes the National Theater and the Royal Festival Hall, as well as other galleries, libraries and event spaces, with regular children’s events during the school holidays and spectacular views over the river. This Christmas, you can catch The Creakers, a children’s musical based on the popular children’s books of the same name.
3. Wander around Mayfair
These are some of the prettiest streets at Christmas time, with many of the area’s exclusive luxury boutiques on Old Bond Street decorating their shop fronts with beautifully festive displays. It’s also a home to two must-visit spots at this time of year: The Ritz (check out the beautiful tree in the foyer) and Fortnum & Mason, where you can curate a traditional Christmas Hamper for loved ones.
4. Visit Santa
Take little ones to see Santa at the legendary festive grotto in Selfridges (one of the most Christmassy places in the capital come December). If you’re in London for a longer stay, you might also want to visit Lapland UK (1 hour out of the city) for the ultimate Christmas wonderland experience.
5. Take a Festive Afternoon Tea
Many of the city’s best Afternoon Tea spots will host a Christmas version for the festive season. Check out The Savoy’s festive afternoon tea for a decadent take on this traditional London experience.
6. Ice Skating at Battersea Power Station
What used to be one of London’s most iconic (but destitute) landmarks, Battersea Power Station has been transformed into a contemporary hub of restaurants, shops, apartments and events. Visit the landmark in its new state to see the regeneration first hand and enjoy the festive ice rink which pops up from November onwards.
7. Go to the Ballet
While there are many well-known shows in the West End for visitors to enjoy all year round, there is one venue that hosts the ultimate Christmas experience each year. Sadlers Wells theater in Islington is the home of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake and The Nutcracker ballets – perfect for families of all ages.
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