If you’re planning a trip to London during the holiday season, you might find it challenging to pinpoint all of the best things to do in London during Christmas – seeing as the city is so massive, and it can prove hard to see it all in a short amount of time (especially with the shorter days in the winter)!

starry lights grey skies old building — Starry lights on Oxford Street during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

I’ve visited London 7 times now, but out of all of my trips to the famous city – seeing London during Christmas just may have been my favorite. I had a friend rave to me about the Christmas lights in the city, and as the daughter of a New Yorker who grew up visiting NYC during Christmas all the time, I didn’t think it could compare – but London during Christmas really is a true close second!

Between exploring the Borough Market, catching the Holiday lights at Harrod’s or down Oxford Street, the holiday food at Southbank, and the charm of Winter by the River – there are a tons of things to do in London during Christmas.

If you’re like me and are often traveling on a budget, no worries – this London Christmas to-do-list is affordable, as many of the best things to see and do in London during the holidays are surprisingly free!

I’ll be sharing my 15 favorite and budget-friendly things to do in London during Christmas to make sure you get a good taste of the British’s version of celebrating cozy season.

Is It Worth Visiting London During Christmas?

Yes, I think London is extremely worth the visit during the holiday season – as it has a wonderful balance of Christmas lights, holiday markets, and overall cozy vibes in the midst of a big city.

I personally visited London last year on a dedicated Christmas trip, and I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed the festive atmosphere in the city. There were endless food markets, Christmas lights, and department store windows to marvel at as I wandered through several different neighborhoods across London. Honestly, Christmas may now be one of my favorite times of the year to visit London!

Watch me explore London during Christmas in real-time in my holiday travel vlog below!

Is London More Expensive During Christmas?

Honestly, no – I didn’t find London to be any more expensive during Christmas than it is any other time of year (and I’ve visited London in December, January, March, April, and May, and September).

Being on a budget myself, the time of year I usually refrain from visiting is actually in the thick of summer – as music festivals like Glastonbury, other international headline concerts (think Harry Styles) and tourists exploring Europe for the summer usually hike up the prices in London more than they do during Christmas.

15 Best Things to Do in London During Christmas

1. Feel Festive at Trafalgar Square

One of the best first places to see during Christmas is Trafalgar Square, as it’ll ease you into the Christmas atmosphere with its market and views of Big Ben in the distance.

clock tower and christmas tree — View of holiday huts and clock tower at Trafalgar Square during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

There’s a wonderful Christmas tree that they put up in the center of Trafalgar Square as well, which is an annual tradition that Norway sends to the U.K. every year in time for the holiday season – so be sure to not miss it!

This year, the Trafalgar Christmas tree will be up on December 3rd, 2026.

2. Get Christmasy-and-Creative at Camden Market

While there are a lot of local markets to explore in London as a whole, I’ve got to say – Camden’s funkier, youthful vibe was a refreshing change of pace from the usual, polished Christmas places I roam around across Europe.

cristmsa tree in middle of food hall with picnic style tables and chairs — View of the Christmas tree at Camden Market in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

From endless food vendors to a strong nightlight, this is one of the best places to visit in London during Christmas if you don’t want a Hallmark-type-of-scenery, but refer to have the holidays in the background of a grungier night out with friends.

3. Explore Holiday Goods at Borough Market

One of my absolute favorite things to do when I visit London, no matter the time of year, is to visit the Borough Market – and it’s all the more fun during the holidays.

busy food market with wreaths and food stands — View of Borough Market during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

In addition to the wreaths and other decorations that are put up across the market during the holidays, vendors usually spruce it up a notch by also offering seasonal drinks, foods, spices, and more.

4. See the Lights at Russell Square

Every time I go to London, I love to stay in Bloomsbury – meaning I’ve seen this spot in London in the spring, nearing summer, early fall, and in the thick of winter.

I love popping into Russell Square to watch people and journal, and the winter only made it all the more charming with its golden, starry lights accompanying the city's classic red phone booths.

golde stary lights in dark with two old red uk phone boots — View of golden starry lights on classic red phone booths at Russell Square during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

The surrounding streets, such as Southampton Row, are lined with approachable restaurants too – if you’re looking to enjoy a meal in London during the holiday season on a budget!

My personal favorite is Gourmet Sushi Holborn, which maybe isn’t the most Christmasy – but it’s a break from the heavier English holiday treats you’ll probably be consuming on your trip (like Sunday Roast, Yorkshire Pudding, etc.).

5. Dive into the Christmas Decorations at Harrod’s

Kind of similar to walking into Macy’s during Christmas in New York City, London is known for break out the Christmas themed department stores as well – especially at Harrod’s.

This year, Harrod’s 2026 theme is, “Where the Stars Align” – meaning the inside of the store is decked out in decorations in addition to offering various luxury items for the season.

Even if you can’t afford the prices inside (trust me, neither can I!), it’s a really fun and free window shopping activity to do in London.

6. Eat Your Way Through Leadenhall Market

If you love to eat, you’re in luck – because Leadenhall Market in London isn’t only a cultural cuisine whirlwind, but one of the cutest and more underrated Christmas spots in London.

christmas tree and gold and red ornamnets hanging in food market — View of Christmas tree and red and gold ornaments at Leadenhall Market during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

I accidentally stumbled across Leadenhall Market after going up Horizon 22, and I’m sure glad I did. From dumplings, empanadas, pasta, to baked goods – this place is made for food and Christmas lovers alike. I especially loved the warm colored ornaments hanging from the ceiling!

This is also a great place to be in London during Christmas on a budget as the food stands are reminiscent of street vendors, often selling their treats at an affordable price.

7. Stroll Along Winter by the River

Probably my favorite Christmas market out of all the ones I explored while in London in December, Winter by the River hugs the water and offers views of the Tower Bridge while you get to explore all of the best British goods during the holiday season.

view of the shard in december in london — Winter by the River runs along River Thames, offering views of the water, Tower Bridge, and the Shard in the distance.

Anything you’re craving will be found here: from burgers, Yorkshire pudding, and those social media cliché chocolate covered strawberries.

This year, Winter by the River will be open from November 10th, 2026 until January 3rd 2027 – with opening hours being 11am to 11pm daily (with exceptional closure on Christmas Eve and shorter operational hours on Christmas Day and its last day being opened).

8. Wander Down Oxford Street

Maybe this is a given, but no trip to London is complete without a stroll down Oxford Street – and this is even more true during Christmas time.

busy shopping street with starry christmas lights — Christmas lights hing on busy Oxford Street for holiday shopping during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

Oxford Street is not only an amazing place for shopping, as you’ll get U.K. classics like Primark and Lush in addition to other familiar stores – but it’s a magical place to walk down during the holidays. The combination of the red buses and twinkling lights on bustling streets screams Christmas in the best way.

I strongly recommend walking all the way down Oxford Street, starting at Bond Street’s underground station all the way until you hit the Marble Arch – as it's really a worthwhile Christmas walk in London.

9. Take Pictures of the Holiday Displays Outside of Department Store Buildings

If you’re a big fan of eyeing the windows on Fifth Avenue in New York City, such as the light show on Saks or the window outside of Bergdorf Goodman – then you’ll be head over heels for the Christmas displays at department stores in London.

department store christmas displays londond peter pan and tinkerbell — View of Tinkerbell and Peter Pan holiday displays outside Louis Vuitton during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

I personally loved the one outside Louis Vuitton most out of all the department store street-facing decorations I saw, as I’m a big fan of Tinkerbell!

10. Marvel in Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Returning this year from November 19th, 2026 until January 3rd, 2027 – Hyde Park’s Witner Wonderland will reopen, which is the perfect spot for friends and family to hop on the more adventurous side of Christmas with amusement rides, shows, and even a massive open-air ice rink.

If you’re a fan of places in New York City like Bryant Park during the holidays, this will be right up your alley while spending Christmas in London.

11. See a Show on West End

There’s something simultaneously intimate, comforting, and welcoming about seeing a show on West End – especially during the holidays.

les miserables lights on west end in lonodn dark cloudy skies — Shows on West End during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

I went to see Moulin Rouge! on West End with a born-and-raised friend from London, and it was a really sweet way to enjoy time inside. We paired it with dinner at Brasserie Zédel, which was perfect for the holiday season and the warm French-styled food they served.

12. Get Cozy at Covent Garden

Covent Garden, is honestly one of my favorite places of all time in London – as it really is as quaint and charming as you’d expect it to be.

colorful buildings on a manicured street — View of colorful buildings in Covent Garden on a rainy day in winter; January 2023

By no surprise, it only gets cuter during Christmas – with its famous Christmas lights set to be live on November 12th, 2026.

What I love about Covent Garden during the holidays and the winter is that it’s often quieter than it is during shoulder season or peak tourist travel – making it more pleasant to explore all of the shops and enjoy the precious atmosphere of the neighborhood.

13. Check Out the Christmas Cheer at Southbank Market

If you like massive markets with endless options for food, Southbank Market is the place to be in London.

Running this year from November 2nd, 2026, through January 3rd, 2027, Southbank Market stands out as a spot to be in London during Christmas for its riverside views, adorable chalets, and nifty light decorations.

You’ll get to try inventive twists on classic British Christmas delights, such as Yorkshire pudding wraps, while seeing the London Eye lit up not far in the distance!

14. Enjoy a Full English Breakfast

This may seem like a year-round thing to do in England, but trust me – a full English breakfast is all the more fulfilling in the midst dreary skies and cheery Christmas lights.

full english breakfast with pink mug, suasage, beans, potatoes, toast, tofu scrable, tomatoes, spinach, and toast on silver platter — View of full English breakfast at Mildred’s during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

If you guys have followed me for a while, you would know that I’m vegan – meaning my favorite spot for this in London is hand’s down Mildred’s.

Other fun Christmas treats that are comforting while in the U.K. include mince pies, Christmas pudding, and a trifle desert – if you’ve seen Friends, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about!

15. Go Ice Skating at Somerset House

If you’re wondering where to go Ice skating in London during Christmas, Somerset House is the place to do it.

Located right around the corner from Covent Garden, the majestic 18th-century courtyard is open from November 11th, 2026 to January 10th, 2026 – and with it only costing £11 per ticket – this is one of those festive but budget friendly Christmas activities to do in London.

There’s also a bunch of season food, drinks, and shopping nearby – making this the perfect one-stop-shop Christmas spot in London to visit.

🇬🇧🎄 London During Christmas FAQs

💷 Is London more expensive during Christmas?

No, as someone who travels to London often for both work and pleasure, I didn't find Eurostar tickets or hotel prices in central London to be any more expensive during the holidays. That being said, I do advise that you book things in advance, as accommodation and train tickets may not be expensive, but they can sell out quickly.

🎄 What's the best Christmas market in London?

I think the best Christmas market in London is Winter by the River. This is because it offers the most quintessential scenery of the city, with Tower Bridge and the River Thames beside you, in addition to classic British Christmas goodies like Yorkshire pudding, mincemeat pies, etc.

👥 Is London more crowded during Christmas?

Honestly, no. I don't find London any more crowded during Christmas than I do during any other time of year that I've visited. It's the same level of "big city vibes" during Christmas as it is at other times of the year.

✨ Is London worth visiting during Christmas?

Yes, London is absolutely worth visiting during Christmas, as it has a massive combination of lights, markets, and shopping to do during the holidays.

🗓️ How many days do you need in London during Christmas?

I would recommend at least 2 to 3 days in London during Christmas. This will help you avoid feeling rushed and really enjoy the food, lights, and other Christmas traditions the city has to offer.

❄️ Does London get snow during Christmas?

No, London doesn't really get snow on Christmas. It's better to expect a grey, dreary, wet December day than a white blanket of snow while visiting this part of the U.K.

st. paul's cathedral with lights hung dark street sunny sky — View of St. Paul’s Cathedral with holiday lights during Christmas in London, United Kingdom; December 2025

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About the Author

Hi, I'm Stephanie Safdie, a travel writer and content creator based in Paris. Since living here, I've spent years exploring the city and regularly update my Paris travel guides with firsthand experience while also exploring destinations across Europe and beyond as a solo female traveler. I've been solo traveling for the past decade, having visited more than 70 cities and nearly 30 countries before turning 30.

Before moving abroad, I grew up moving all around the United States, having lived in New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Tampa – which sparked my desire to discover and experience new places and cultures from a young age.

As a true writer at heart passionate about being open-minded, adventurous, and diaristic – it's my goal to share honest, practical travel advice, local insights, detailed itineraries, and real-life experiences that go beyond typical tourist recommendations. With over 200 guides published on Destination Dreamer Diaries, I’m here help you plan the most memorable trip of a lifetime with confidence.

When I'm not traveling or working professionally in content creation, you'll find me doing just about anything creative: writing, practicing my photography skills (the large majority of photos featured on this blog were taken during my own travels), playing my music at open mic nights, editing videos for my YouTube channel, cooking, or creating travel content.

Last updated: November 14, 2026