Things to Do in London in December
There’s no shortage of things to do in London in December! Whether you live in London or are visiting for the holidays, there’s endless ways to celebrate the festive season.
After living in London for over a decade, I’ve had a chance to explore everything (probably twice!) and have put together this guide which covers the best of London in December.
From festive markets and ice skating to Christmas lights and seasonal shows, there is an endless list of things to see in London!
Christmas performances, festive menus and unique winter events ensure there’s something for every interest. In this guide, you’ll also find discounts to help you book activities and make the most of your December plans in London.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no additional cost to you and it helps support the Sunny in London blog.
You’ll find Things to Do in London in December organised below by:
- Christmas Guide/Sales on Activities
- Candlelight Concerts
- Christmas Activities
- New or Limited Time Events
- Afternoon Teas
- Food and Drinks, Pubs, Bars
- Pinterest / Save for Later
Christmas Guide & Sales on Activities
Want to have the best Christmas in London? If you don’t want to take the chance of missing the most likely to sell-out activities and things to do in London for Christmas, get this guide!
Christmas in London
Don’t ruin your London trip with a bad itinerary! Your dream Christmas in London starts here.
From sparkling lights to perfect itineraries, self-guided walks and everything in between, our brand new Christmas in London guide is packed with festive magic! (and Mr Sunny’s holiday sausage roll recipe)
Don’t miss out on your Christmas like a movie!
2025 Current Ticket Discounts for London
Next update on 2nd Jan 2026
Discount Code: SUNNYINLONDON10
Get 10% Off these
- Minecraft Experience: Village Rescuer
- Banksy Limitless
- Neverland at Kenwood House
- Nutcracker Noir: Dinner & Theatre
- The Murder Express
- Legend of the Titanic Exhibition
- Jurassic World: The Experience
- Humbug– Santa’s Christmas Dive Bar Experience
- SABRAGE
- Prison Island
- Paradox Museum
- Boom Lab
- Seven Wonders of the World
- Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City
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Things to Do in London in December: 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 Concerts, Christmas Movie Soundtracks and EDM.
We have our holiday candlelight concert tickets booked for this year and I’ll share that experience with you too.
Holiday Concerts 2025
New Year
CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES
December in London transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland. You’ll find Christmas markets in the most popular neighbourhoods and ice skating rinks pop up in iconic locations. For theatre lovers, the season also offers a variety of holiday shows too.
Christmas Markets
Ice Skating
Christmas Shows
ANNUAL EVENTS
- Christmas at Kew- an annual highlight, featuring enchanting light trails through its stunning gardens.
- Winter Wonderland- in Hyde Park is a must-visit at least once. You’ll find a mix of rides, ice sculptures and festive treats.
- Hogwarts in the Snow at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour brings the wizarding world to life with its spellbinding winter transformation. A must-do for Harry Potter fans
Things to Do in London in December: Special Events
These events are for either a limited time or are new for 2025.
- Guildhall Christmas Market- on behalf of the British Red Cross it will take place at the Guildhall Art Gallery, Guildhall Yard, EC2V 7HH. Opening night is 8 December from 5.15pm-9pm. Market day is 9 December 10.30am-7pm
- Tod’s Festive Feast- Christmas food market outside Outernet London near Tottenham Court Road tube Station, until 28 Dec
- Neverland at Kenwood House- activity for children until 3 January 2026
- French alpine escape above the City on the rooftop of Coq d’Argent, 8 Nov-28 February 2026
- New Year’s Eve Luxury Dining & Cruise Event– celebrate with French fine dining restaurant Le Pont de la Tour; From 6.30 pm you’ll enjoy Champagne and a five-course feast in this riverside restaurant before boarding The Edwardian at 10.30 pm for an exclusive cruise along the Thames; it’s a view reserved for only 100 guests
Festive Afternoon Tea: Things to Do in London in December
December is the perfect time for indulging in a festive afternoon tea. It’s one of my favourite British traditions. Combining it with a Christmas-themed bus tour is a fun way to enjoy the city. I’ve personally done two of these bus tours at Christmas. They’re ideal for those on a tight schedule who want to see the highlights and enjoy seasonal treats at the same time.
Bus Tours
Luxury Hotels
Hotels
If you haven’t booked your hotel yet for your London trip, here’s an interactive map to get you started! It’s based on the most central location in town.
Food & Drinks, Pubs & Bars
This time of year, festive menus pop up across London’s restaurants, pubs and bars, offering seasonal favourites like turkey with all the trimmings, mulled wine and indulgent desserts.
Whether it’s a historic pub with a fire or a chic bar serving creative Christmas cocktails, there’s no shortage of delicious options to try. I always look forward to discovering the festive flavours London has to offer.
Pubs to Visit
Food
Miracle Bar
Known for its extravagant holiday decor and festive cocktails, Miracle Bar is a must-visit during the Christmas season. While bookings fill months in advance, weekday walk-ins or joining the waitlist during the day can often secure a spot. Sunny News email subscribers get notified as soon as bookings open each each.
Biscuiteers
Famous for their intricately hand-iced biscuits, Biscuiteers offers a whimsical treat for every occasion. You can even book a class to learn their icing techniques and create your own edible masterpieces at their Notting Hill location. It’s great for a gift or a fun things to do in London at Christmas.
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