Things to Do in London in January 

What happens after Christmas in London? The start of a new year brings tons of exciting things to do in London in January. As the festive decorations come down, the city still has a lot to offer. But in fairness, it’s not nearly as colourful as what you see in December. 

Lingering festive activities are Hogwarts in the Snow and ice skating at several locations around London. Club curling at Coal Drops Yard gives something bright and fun to do in January that makes the short periods of daylight a little more tolerable.

For those who love culture, the Royal Opera House hosts an inspiring line-up of performances. My monthly favourite cultural events are the candlelight concerts. Of course, they continue to occur in iconic venues in January. If you’re eager to celebrate the Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year festivities will light up Chinatown with vibrant parades and delicious street food.

Whether you’re a Londoner or a visitor, you can find the city’s most intriguing offerings for the month. In this list of things to do in London in January, you’ll discover activities for New Year’s Day, ways to embrace the winter chill with outdoor events, pubs that have cosy experiences even during Dry January and more!

You’ll find Things to Do in London in January organised below by:

• What’s Coming Up/On Sale Now
• Candlelight Concerts
• Seasonal Activities
• Afternoon Teas
• Cosy Pubs
• Exhibitions
• London Trip Planner
• Pinterest/Save for Later

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Coming Up/On Sale Now

MoNTHLY DISCOUNTS

Currently, Sunny in London followers can get discounts on the London activities below. This list will be updated 3rd January 2025.

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Things to Do in London in January: Candlelight Concerts

I have attended several of these concerts and highly recommend them for date nights, special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries or just a fun night out! You can read more about my first experience at the Tribute to Coldplay. I’ve also attended the Tribute to Taylor Swift, Hans Zimmer Candlelight Concert and Christmas Movie Soundtracks.

SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

January in London can be a bit grey. Occasionally it may snow. So if you’re visiting London during this time- keep your eyes on the forecast! You’ll find there are some outdoor activities that are very popular. However, it’s a better month to enjoy events that are based inside for obvious reasons.

Afternoon Tea: Things to Do in London in January

January is the perfect time for indulging in a themed afternoon tea. It’s one of my favourite British traditions. While the special ones you see launched just for the holiday season are fun, you’re sometimes rushed through them due to all the other Christmas events happening.

While it’s typically a month to cut back on calories, if you do have room for a treat, afternoon tea in January can make a rainy day a perfect time to catch up with a friend.

Things to Do in London in January: Exhibitions & Shows

Paradox Museum: London

See the world from another perspective at Paradox Museum. From captivating optical illusions to challenging paradoxes, this is an immersive experience that’s great for a family day out in London.

Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive VR Expedition to Ancient Egypt

With The Horizon of Khufu, travel back thousands of years to the heart of ancient Egypt. Unlock the secrets of one of the seven wonders of the world with a brand new concept: the immersive expedition. Discover the Great Pyramid of Giza as it was more than 4500 years ago. Walk through its mysterious corridors, enter the Queen’s Chamber and even try to decipher some hieroglyphics.

Bubble Planet: An immersive Experience

Inside this spherical world full of bubbles, you will have the opportunity to hop from one immersive space to the next, experiencing them all with your five senses. With oversized bubbles, balloons, soap and more, this sensory universe will give you the opportunity to see the world in a whole new way. You can even travel the globe with a hot air balloon flight simulator. 

For similar activities, don’t miss this article on Immersive Experiences in London.

Cosy Pubs for Dry January

In January many of London’s restaurants, pubs and bars offer Dry January mocktails and specials. So, they are still very much worth visiting.

Below is a list of pubs in London that are fantastic for their atmosphere. They’re pubs that we visit often after work or when out and about for the day.

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