Things to Do in London in December | Christmas Time Magic

London at Christmas time is magical! From holiday markets to themed afternoon tea experiences...discover the TOP things to do in London in December!

Pumpkin spice latte and sweater season is in full swing. And with that comes planning your Christmas vacation. London in December is magical! It's one of my favorite cities during the holiday season.

Few places can match its Christmas light displays, decadent afternoon tea in the most festive settings, and endless options for ice skating, Christmas markets, and holiday shopping.

Read on to discover the 10 most magical things to do in London in December!

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This map shows everything listed for what to do in London at Christmas time. Click the top left button (in the blue bar) to see a list view of each pinned location or the top right button to enlarge the map.

• Blue: Christmas Lights in London
• Red: Ice Skating in London
• Green: London Christmas Markets
• Black: Festive Afternoon Tea
• Yellow: Everything Else

BEFORE WE BEGIN WITH What to do in London IN DECEMBER...

What's the Weather Like?

Temperatures typically range in the low 30s to mid 50s in December. While that may not seem bad, it feels dang cold. The days see very little sun, there is almost always cloud coverage, and it's often damp.

Dress as you would for a proper "winter" destination and assume it will feel colder than the temperature reads.

Always have an umbrella on you as it tends to drizzle on and off this time of year.

What to Pack for London in December

A warm, winter coat is a must for London in December. Anything less, like a pea coat, isn't going to cut it. Jake wore a down jacket under his thick pea coat to stay warm.

Insulation is key. Go for a down or down alternative coat. If you're always cold (like me), pack a thigh-length coat to keep your legs warm.

I brought my heaviest, warmest winter coat and was very glad I had it. We spent a lot of time outside walking from place to place, wandering the London Christmas markets, etc. 

If you think you'll be traveling the same way, definitely bring gloves, ear muffs or hats, and scarves.

Because I packed the above, I was perfectly comfortable wandering around all day. 

If you run on the warmer side, you'll probably be fine in a hip-length down/down alternative.

As for under your coat, I stick to jeans (often black) and a sweater. If I want to bump it up a bit for dinner or afternoon tea, I'll pair a long sweater dress (below knees) with thick, wool tights.

I opt for natural fabrics, like wool and cashmere, as much as possible because they are much warmer than synthetic materials. While cashmere can get quite expensive, Nordstrom has a crewneck and v-neck cashmere sweater that I love for $100. 

1. London Christmas Lights

The Christmas light displays in London are on another level of grandeur and creativity. I have yet to visit another city that matches what London brings to the table. And I've been to cities all over Europe during the holiday season.

The best streets for over-the-top London Christmas lights are Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Bond Street, Marylebone, Seven Dials Christmas, and Regent Street.

These are all in central London and most are conveniently located in the major shopping areas.

Enjoying the festive decorations and illuminated streets is hands down one of my favorite things about London in December.

• Private Tour: Traditional Black Cab Tour of London’s Christmas Lights
• London by Night Private Taxi Tour/Christmas Lights
• Christmas Party Tour - Silent Disco Walking Tours
• Christmas Lights Bike Tour of London

2. Ice Skating

December in London is the perfect time to take a whirl on the ice. Skate around some of London's most iconic locations.

The best picks are Somerset House, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, Canary Wharf, Glide at Battersea Power Station, Ice rink at Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush, and Hampton Court Palace (just outside of London). 

Visit London lists all the ice skating spots in London.

3. Christmas Markets in London

My favorite Christmas markets in London are Covent Garden (don't miss the giant Christmas tree), Southbank Center Winter Market, Leicester Square Christmas Market, Christmas Under the Canopy at Kings Cross, Selfridges Christmas Market, and Christmas by the River (by Tower Bridge).

Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is the biggest and extremely popular, but I found it a bit cheesy and better for those with kids.

You really can't spend December in London and not visit a Christmas market...or 10...so be sure to put it at the top of your list.

4. Carols at Trafalgar Square

Christmas carols are sung below a giant Christmas tree in one of the busiest squares in London. Performances usually take place between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm on weekdays, and 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm on weekends. 

St. Martin in the Fields is a beautiful church located steps from Trafalgar Square. A  variety of carols and concerts are offered in December including family carols, kids carols, carols by candlelight, and more. There is an admission fee (£10 to £30), but at least you'll be inside and out of the cold!

5. Christmas Shopping in London

If you're visiting London at Christmas time and have a few holiday gifts to check off your list, you've come to the right place! Complete your Christmas shopping in London...a major fashion and shopping capital.

You'll have plenty of options between boutique shops, famous department stores, and all the Christmas markets in London.

Check off your holiday shopping list at the infamous Liberty London, my favorite department store in London. Come here for fewer crowds and a more boutique shopping experience. Stop at Arthur’s on level 2 for a quick break to sample some of the best scones in London!

Fortnum and Mason, the Queen's favorite "grocery store", is the perfect place to buy fine teas or gourmet food items. Duchess Earl Grey is my favorite tea. Fortnum and Mason teas make for a great stocking stuffer with their beautiful tin packaging.

Oxford Street is where you will want to head for all the top stores. This is also a top Christmas light street.

6. Cathedrals: Carols, Concerts, and Christmas Services

December in London marks the start of some pretty memorable Christmas concerts. Listen to holiday classics in the magnificent setting of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey or attend a candlelit service.

Several concerts are actually free. 

7. Christmas at Kew Gardens

Enjoy a 1-mile trail through the botanical gardens lit with over 1 million lights. Be sure to buy tickets in advance.

This is one of the best things to do in London at Christmas time if you have kids. Walking along the path and taking in the magnificent Christmas light displays makes for a magical night. 

8. The Best Afternoon Tea in London at Christmas Time

Afternoon tea is an experience not to be missed when in London and Christmas time is no exception. Every time I visit I'm on the hunt to find the best afternoon tea in London...so it's safe to say I've tried quite a few.

The more popular and high-end spots go all out with their decorations. Many offer themed holiday menus featuring festive-inspired pastries. Some even include Christmas carols or Santa Claus appearances.

*Keep in mind that many places have higher prices during the holidays.

For a splurge and all-out Christmas spirit, try The Dorchester, Claridge's, or The Ritz London. These spots offer some of the best afternoon tea in London. All have stunning holiday decor and Christmas-themed menus.

The Mirror Room at Rosewood London is one of my favorites. The winter-themed decorations are gorgeous and the pastries are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Because I'm a sucker for a cozy afternoon filled with scones and clotted cream, this is probably one of my favorite activities on the list of things to do in London in December. 

9. London Christmas Shows and Performances

Book a seat for the Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House or the English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum. A Christmas Carol is another festive option at The Old Vic.

If you're thinking of visiting London at Christmas time you must book these tickets ASAP. This is one of the most popular ticketed attractions and seats sell out fast.

10. Hogwarts in the Snow - The Making of Harry Potter

I wouldn't be a true Harry Potter fan if I didn't list Hogwarts in the Snow as one of the best things to do in London in December. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London transforms at Christmas time.

The Great Hall is decorated as it was for the Yule Ball, the Hogwarts Castle model is dusted with snow, and sets are decorated with holiday props that were used during filming.

For avid Harry Potter fans, December brings an enchanting winter experience: Dinner in the Great Hall. Only held for a handful of dates, tickets are expensive (around £300) and hard to come by. Book far in advance if this is of interest.

Guests enjoy an evening of drinking and dining in the Great Hall in all its Christmas glory. After dinner the rest of the studio is open for guests to wander at their leisure, enjoying the sets with far fewer people.

In Summary

I hope this list of the best things to do in London in December not only helps with planning but inspires you to visit London at Christmas time. From festive afternoon teas to spectacular lights and Christmas markets...you'll be in for a magical time.

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Things to do in December in London | Christmas Time Magic

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