Things to do in December in London | Christmas Time Fun • Abroad with Ash

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

Pumpkin spice latte and sweater season is in full swing, and with that comes planning your Christmas vacation. December in London is magical and 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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table of contents

This map shows all the places and things to do in December in London. 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

10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONDON in December

1. London Christmas Lights

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 conviently located in the major shopping areas.

Walking around at night and seeing the Christmas lights in London is hands down one of my favorite memories.

AwA Tip: consider joining a tour to make sure you see all the best lights.

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 (new for 2022), Glide at Battersea Power Station (new for 2022), Ice rink at Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush (also new for 2022), and Hampton Court Palace (just outside of 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.

This is one of the best things to do in December in London that is completely free!

5. Christmas Shopping in London

If you're visiting London in December 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. These specialty teas in their beautiful tins make for a great stocking stuffer.

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 get 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.

Photo: Ritz London

Rosewood London

Photo: Ritz London - John Carey Photography

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 and many offer themed holiday menus featuring festive-inspired pastries. Some even include Christmas carols or Santa Clause 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 they don’t up-charge their tea during the holidays like the options listed above.

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 the best things to do in December in London.

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 December in London. 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 other sets are decorated with holiday props that were used during filming.

For die hard Harry Potter fans there are also several dates in December for "Dinner in the Great Hall". This is a specialty event and tickets must be purchased far in advance. They aren't cheap either (around $300 per person).

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

AwA Tip: looking for a Harry Potter filled day? Consider adding a trip to Oxford to see original filming locations. Plus, Oxford is beautiful at Christmas and known to have one of the best Christmas markets in London!

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Oxford Day Trip

In Summary

I hope this list of the top things to do in December in London 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.