london tours christmas 2022

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Christmas in London

About this tour.

Feel the holiday spirit when you experience the Christmas season in London, a world within a city. Explore London’s colorful Christmas markets, beautifully decorated department stores, and bustling streets. Join a local expert on a panoramic tour. See the Norwegian fir in Trafalgar Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the festive lights adorning Buckingham Palace. Explore the majesty of Westminster Abbey. Visit the historic university town of Oxford decked out in holiday splendor. Travel to magnificent Blenheim Palace, an incomparable display at Christmastime. Feel the holiday warmth at one of London’s finest theatres. Enjoy afternoon tea in charming Covent Garden. Embark on a relaxing journey as you discover the colorful history and regal pageantry only found “across the pond.”

Your Tour Includes

• 1 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Buckingham Palace
• Christmas Markets
• Covent Garden

Your Tour at a Glance

5 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Walk around Covent Garden, one of London’s oldest marketplaces, and a hub of London’s street performer scene.

Explore the local stalls of Greenwich and uncover its character and history.

Feel the festive vibes at Blenheim Palace as it’s adorned for the season.

Cultural Experiences:

Take a ride on “the Tube” – London’s famous Underground.

Visit Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Culinary Inclusions:

Tap into British culture during Afternoon Tea in Covent Garden.

Sit down for a hearty meal in a traditional English pub.

• Traditional English Tea
• Blenheim Palace
• Tower of London

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Doubletree by Hilton Tower of London

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: DoubleTree by Hilton London - Tower of London From $150 per night

DoubleTree by Hilton London - Tower of London

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MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TOURS

Make extra-special memories this festive season

• Evan Evans Tours
• Christmas and Boxing Day Tours

Fantastic Festive Tours

Make extra-special memories this festive season with our selection of unforgettable journeys to Britain's most iconic locations . Join us on a wonderful festive journey of discovery around London and beyond as your captivating guide unravels the sights, stories and magic of Britain at this most magical time of year.

Magical London Experiences

Take look at our festive tours operating on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, for a fantastic festive trip in London!

Big Bus London - Christmas Lights Night Tour

Hop on our fantastic and magical Christmas Lights Night Tour to discover the sparkling Christmas lights of London.

Royal London Tour with River Cruise Option

Crown Jewels and London Tour with River Cruise

See London by Night

Big Bus Tours London Hop-on Hop-off

Secrets of the London Underground Walking Tour

Big Bus London - Christmas Day Discover Ticket (25 December only)

Festive day tours from london.

Browse our selection of tours operating on Christmas Eve (24th December) and Boxing Day (26th December).

Villages of The Cotswolds Small Group Tours

With its rustic rural charm, rolling hills, vibrant market towns and picture-perfect villages, the Cotswolds covers nearly 800 square miles of unspoilt countryside. Take a small group trip through its rolling hills, home to some of the most famous and historic towns and villages of England. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this range of hills in west-central England is packed with picturesque villages built of Cotswold stone, beautiful churches and vast manor houses.

Stonehenge Half Day Tour with optional Thames River Cruise

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford

Warwick Castle, Shakespeare's Birthplace & Oxford

Stonehenge and Bath Tours

Oxford & Cambridge Universities

Christmas Traditions around the world

Every corner of the globe adds its unique twist to this festive season.

Have you ever considered enjoying a KFC meal on Christmas Day? Or perhaps, on occasion, have you found something less desirable than expected, like a surprising encounter with rotten potatoes in your shoes?

DISCOVER MORE TOURS

Explore our fabulous range of full-day and half-day tours of London and the UK and exclusive small-group experiences.

LONDON TOURS

Small group experiences, day tours from london, get inspired this holiday season.

Here are some picks on things to do for Christmas, destinations to explore and other places to see this winter in London and the UK, before or after your Christmas tours.

The Best Christmas Film Locations to Visit in the UK

How to do a proper british christmas wherever you are, 5 magical christmas markets to discover in london, more london things to do.

Plan your trip properly with our curated London tips & guides.

10 best markets in London

London is a veritable treasure trove of street markets and famous shopping streets.

The Ultimate 2024 Guide to Nightlife in London

A guide to Art and Culture in London

7 Magical Harry Potter Experiences in London and beyond

12 affordable one-Michelin-starred restaurants in London and beyond

Why book a private tour in Britain?

What makes us different.

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime.

RELATED LINKS

On this page.

• Guide to hotel areas
• Bed & breakfast
• Backpacker hostels
• Airbnb London
• Central London tours
• Tours from London
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours
• Harry Potter tours
• Stonehenge tours
• Downton Abbey tours
• Windsor tours
• Cotswolds tours
• Private tours
• Ticket & pass offers
• Central London attractions
• Attractions outside London
• Harry Potter attractions
• Tower of London
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• London City
• London Southend
• Southampton

What to do in London at Christmas time

Christmas eve, christmas day, boxing day, new year's eve and new year's day tours.

London is a magical place at any time of the year but at Christmas time, London really comes alive with its Christmas decorations, Christmas lights and enormous Christmas trees.

Whether it's enjoying the buildup to Christmas watching the glorious lights of London or opting for a relaxing Christmas Day lunch where your fabulous meal is all cooked for you, we have plenty of options for you with tours and attractions in and around London at Christmas. You might enjoy a top day out on Boxing Day and see somewhere new in England for a festive season you'll remember forever.

And don't forget New Year's Eve - the party evening of the year. A fabulous New Year's Eve cruise down the River Thames will see your 2023 go in with a bang.

Check our links below to discover how you can have an amazing festive period in London whatever the date.

Throughout festive season   Christmas Eve   Christmas Day   Boxing Day   New Year's Eve   Free attractions

Tours available throughout Christmas in and leaving from London

Christmas lights vintage bus tour

This tour will take you around London’s beautiful Christmas lights in vintage style, perfect for photography lovers. You are dropped off at Winter Wonderland at the end.

Book adult £32pp

Christmas Market day trips

Birmingham, Canterbury and Winchester Christmas markets await where you can discover traditional food and drinks with return transport from London.

Book adult £45pp

Christmas lights bus tour with live guide

Enjoy all the festive magic of the Christmas light displays of London as it gets dark, from the terrific view of the top deck of this fabulous open-top bus.

Book adult top deck £29pp

Lightopia Festival London

A multi award-winning winter wonderland in London’s Crystal Palace Park. An illuminated trail offers mesmerising light displays for all the family.

Book adult £19.50pp

What to do in and around London on Christmas Eve 2022

Illuminated tour, dinner & midnight mass

Includes a beautiful tour of illuminated London, sumptuous 3-course meal & Prosecco, followed by the famous midnight mass at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square.

Book adult £114pp

Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover & lunch

Christmas Eve visit to Leeds Castle, walking tour of Canterbury including the Christmas market, 2-course lunch, see the white cliffs of Dover and visit historic and beautiful Greenwich.

Book adult £85pp

Christmas Eve Total London Experience

Enjoy a panoramic tour of London, visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards Parade & St Paul’s Cathedral. Take a boat ride down the Thames and finally experience the London Eye.

Book adult from £85pp

Stonehenge & Bath on Christmas Eve

Visit these two World Heritage Sites on Christmas Eve, for a fabulous relaxing day out seeing the gorgeous Georgian architecture of Bath and the awe-inspiring megalithic monument of Stonehenge in one day.

Book adult from £69pp

What to do on Christmas Day 2022 in and around London

Christmas Day Lunch Cruise and Guided City Tour

This tour combines the best of Christmas London by coach and boat. First you can take in sparkling London's lights with a panoramic coach tour, followed by a Christmas Day lunch with wine on the River Thames. This is a very popular and relaxing way to spend Christmas Day.

Book adult £189pp

Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise

Enjoy a 4-course lunch aboard the Thames Cruiser with a glass of sparkling wine and tea & coffee and mince pies to finish. Relax on this beautifully decorated festive boat, with roomy, open-air deck and large glass windows for city sightseeing at its most spectacular.

Book adult £135pp

Christmas Lunch in Stratford with Oxford

Visit the stunning University town of Oxford, with its ancient alleys and market squares before heading enjoying a relaxing drive through the stunning Cotswolds, as you head for Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon where you finish your day with a marvelous 3-course Christmas lunch.

Book adult £165pp

Canterbury, Dover & Greenwich & Christmas lunch

Enjoy the splendour of the ‘Sung Eucharist’ at Canterbury Cathedral. Following this enjoy a memorable 3-course Christmas lunch. Returning to London you can marvel at the great White Cliffs of Dover and the maritime borough of Greenwich.

What to do on Boxing Day 2022 - tours leaving from London

Simply Stonehenge on Boxing Day

What could be better than visiting a World Heritage Site on Boxing day? Spend a magical morning marveling at the stones and learning more about the history through the Visitor Centre. This tour includes entry to Stonehenge as well as transportation by luxurious air-conditioned coach.

Book adult £58pp

Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon & Warwick Castle

Begin your day with a walking tour of the magnificent university city of Oxford, with entry to the famous Christ Church. Drive through the Cotswolds on your way to Stratford-upon-Avon where you can visit Shakespeare's Birthplace. Finish your day out at the historic Warwick Castle.

Book adult £99pp

Windsor, Bath, Stonehenge and Salisbury

Enjoy a fabulous adventure this Boxing Day to some of Britain's most spectacular destinations. Wander through the lovely town of Windsor, follow in early mankind’s footsteps at Stonehenge, get a glimpse of Salisbury Cathedral and see the beautiful city of Bath!

Book adult £109pp

Have a magical Boxing Day surrounded by beautiful locations and impressive buildings! Enjoy a visit to Leeds Castle, once described as ‘The Loveliest Castle in the World’, Canterbury, the White Cliffs of Dover, Greenwich and a delicious two-course lunch!

What to do on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day 2022 in and around London

New Year’s Eve Cruise on board the Silver Sockeye

Enjoy a fabulous welcome into the New Year with a stunning cruise along the River Thames. With a glass of Prosecco on arrival, you'll be sure to have a fabulous time with musical entertainment as well as fabulous views of the city’s skyline lit up against the night.

Book adult £249

Lunch in The Most Beautiful Village in England

William Morris described Bibury as "The Most Beautiful Village in England" and you can enjoy a fabulous two course NYD lunch, in an old fashioned pub overlooking the River Coln. Enjoy the scenery of the stunning Cotswolds as you get away from it all this New Year.

Book adult £108

Simply Stonehenge Tour

Spend the first or last day of the year at an incredible World Heritage Site and enjoy an extended visit on this tour. You'll have plenty of time to experience the mystical beauty of Stonehenge. This tour includes entry to Stonehenge as well as transportation by luxurious air-conditioned coach.

City Cruises ThamesJet NYE package

A range of NYE cruises for you to choose from. All put you in the grandstand position to witness London's spectacular NYE fireworks - right on the River Thames. Choose from dinner cruises, or simple canape's with a welcome glass of champagne and live music.

Book from £282pp

Free events and attractions in London at Christmas

Christmas on a budget

There are so many free things to do in London at Christmas. Most of the London museums are free and will have Christmas themed exhibitions as part of their offering. You can shop until you drop in London at Christmas and enjoy the Christmas lights and store displays at the same time. Selfridges is world famous for its window displays, especially at Christmas and Harrods Christmas lights are well worth seeing.

There are lots of famous Christmas trees you can visit, the ones at Trafalgar Square and St Pancras station are particularly well known and always beautifully decorated. London also comes into its own with its huge range of Christmas Markets .

Visit any church and you’ll be made very welcome and you can explore and enjoy the carol services at your leisure. If you need a walk before your Christmas dinner , then make your way in the morning down to Hyde Park , where you can watch brave or crazy souls take a dip in the Serpentine in the annual Peter Pan Cup.

London Christmas Tours 2022

No sooner is Summer drawing to a close when we start being inundated with requests for this year’s Christmas tour dates!

One of the highlights of the holiday season in London, our Christmas special tours are the ultimate night out to discover the best of the capital during what is truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Still haven’t booked yours? Here’s a sneak peak at what you’re missing out on!

You never know who you might run into during a Magical Christmas Tour …

London’s Christmas markets

Our London Christmas Lights Tours are the original holiday themed tours, visiting the best of the festive lights in central London, alongside many off the beaten path locations.

Remember that unlike other tour offerings, this is not just the usual London landmarks. Our professional tour guides will take you out of the chauffeur driven sightseeing vehicles to hear the stories and learn about the traditions behind what it means to spend Christmas in London – the perfect holiday treat.

Christmas fairies – much loved by children on our Christmas tours!

Tower Bridge at Christmas: Magical …

The London Christmas Tours are running from 14th of November 2022 to 5th of January 2023.

Still need convincing? Take a look at some of the videos below for a little taste of what visitors have been saying about previous year’s Magical Christmas London Tours:

10 thoughts on “ London Christmas Tours 2022 ”

We are returning to London from the 9th of December after 3 years. Can’t wait to visit during the holidays, we’ve booked the Magical Xmas tour for the evening of the 11th with my daughter and her husband. Super excited!

Our tour last week to see the highlights of London was perfect. The icing on the cake was when I caught my husband reading the A to Z guide book (which is intended for children!), which we are taking back to give it to our grandchildren next Christmas. I cannot think of a better way to see London.

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your request, we are delighted to help and our internet dept have responded to you directly. For more details on 2017’s Christmas themed tours, kindly visit: http://www.londonmagicaltours.com/london_tours_christmas_london_tour.html

Best regards,

LMT Web Team

We loved the Magical xmas tour in 2015. Our guide was superb and it was so much more than just seeing the beautiful lights. If you are looking for a magical evening, this is the one. Unlike another holiday tour we took, this was an actual “christmas” tour, it wasn’t just driving around the normal London landmarks. We are returning to England in December with our 3 grandchildren and have just booked for the 30th, so looking forward to it!

We’ve heard wonderful things about the Christmas tours and are wishing to book on either the 21st or 22nd of December. Can you please send me details? We would prefer the private tour, we are a party of 5 staying at the Dukes hotel, St James.

My husband and I were visiting London during the New Year enjoying every show we love at the West End for a week. We couldn’t be happier to be able to get hold of a private Christmas lights tour with Magical, which we booked with six months in advance. It surpassed all our expectations. We whole heartedly recommend it.

THANK YOU for an amazing tour of London at Christmas. Everything was perfect. Our guide was a treasure of a person and our driver a total expert, driving us to places we would never have seen or found on our own. This is a total must do, the lights are spectacular!

We wanted to write a quick note of thanks after our tour last Sunday. We couldn’t believe how much we got to see and do in only 3 hours, it was fun and educational. We particularly loved not only seeing the lights but also how our guide was able to teach our kids so much about this special holiday and its origins. If you’re looking for a great family day out, this is it.

We loved our magical xmas tour, I was checking in to see if we got featured on the blog! Thank you for the perfect evening, our children are still talking about what a great guide Jane is. Our driver Stephen was also wonderful, keeping everyone in the spirit with the holiday songs and his hat. Blessings!

Really looking forward to our tour this Saturday. Our cousins visited 2 years ago and said it was their favourite holiday experience while in London. Can’t wait!

Clare and Roger Turner, California

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22 Best Christmas tours in London (2024)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 2, 2024

Visiting London during the festive season? Discover the best Christmas tours in London for 2024 including lights, markets, day trips, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & more.

From an open-top bus “Christmas lights in London” experience to a day trip to Europe, there are so many things to do when you’re based in London during the festive season!

If you want to find the best walking tours, enjoy a 3-course meal while sailing along the Thames or even attend a church service on Christmas Eve or morning, then read on.

We’ve rounded up 22 of the finest options, including London taxi tours for Christmas plus walking, cycling, bus and boat tours. 

Whether you prefer to shop til you drop at the finest festive markets in the UK or explore historic London, these are the best Christmas tours from London for 2024. 

Best Christmas tours in London – Quick picks

Open-top bus christmas lights by night tour, vintage open-top bus christmas lights tour, tootbus london christmas lights tour, christmas eve london illuminations bus tour, christmas lights and festive sights walking tour, christmas lights tour by black london cab, london christmas lights tour by taxi, private london christmas sites walking tour, charles dickens and a christmas carol walking tour, london christmas lights and markets tour.

• Personalised London walking tour with a local 

Christmas markets walking tour of London

• Christmas party Thames lunch cruise 

Christmas dinner party river cruise

3 hour tour of london by bike, bruges christmas markets in a day, kent countryside & church day trip from london, total london experience christmas eve tour, christmas eve tour with st paul’s and the london eye.

• Christmas Eve dinner in London with Midnight Mass 

Christmas Day sights and sounds of London

• London tour plus Christmas Day Sung Eucharist at St Paul's

Which Christmas tours in London will you take?

London travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), 7 london christmas lights tours by bus, taxi or on foot.

• Duration: 1 hour 45 mins
• Destination: Central London
• Meeting time: Varies
• Meeting point: London Eye
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, audio guide
• What’s not included: Meals, drinks, hotel pick-up, tips

This Christmas lights bus tour of London whisks you past all the top sights in the capital – as illuminated for Christmas. Starting out from the London Eye, landmarks you’ll see en route include Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and Tower Bridge.

During the hour-and-three-quarter tour you’ll hear all about London culture and history, and see for yourself how one of the world’s most visited cities does Christmas. 

⭐️ Click for more information or to book this tour

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Meeting point: Grand Hotel, Northumberland Avenue
• What’s included: Vintage transport, tour guide

Hop aboard a Routemaster bus from the 1960s for an hour-and-a-quarter whistle-stop tour of London’s grandest streets. Places you’ll pass on this London lights tour include Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge and Oxford Street to the other side of Hyde Park.

This tour is designed to amuse as much as to educate, so hopefully your experienced guide will have you rolling in the aisles with laughter. As they’re fond of saying in London theatres.  

• Duration: 45 minutes
• Meeting point: Varies
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Santa hat, Christmas playlist

This Tootbus tour of London’s Christmas lights will keep you switched on, as there’s free WiFi on board plus complimentary access to the Tootbus app and Christmas playlist. Your guide will even give you a Santa hat to keep!

Central London’s most illuminated districts will all be seen on this fun London lights bus tour, including Regent Street, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. Kids under five can also travel for free if sitting on an adult’s lap.

• Duration: 105 minutes
• Meeting point: London Victoria bus stop 1
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Christmas gift

As it takes place on Christmas Eve, you can only experience this magical London Christmas lights 2024 tour only once per year. So it’s pretty special. To mark the occasion, you’ll even be given a Christmas gift. 

You’ll also see so many London landmarks lit up in their festive finery, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, the City, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Phew!

• Duration: 3 hours
• Meeting time: To be agreed
• Meeting point: To be agreed
• What’s included: Local tour guide, mulled wine or hot chocolate
• What’s not included: Meals, tickets, transport, tips

This Christmas lights tour of London for 2024 takes place on foot. As it’s private and personalised, the itinerary can be adjusted to suit you. If you’re not sure of where to go, don’t worry as your guide won’t be short of suggestions!

You can see some of London’s best Christmas lights during the three hour tour and discover hidden secrets about this charming city. From stunning Christmas shop windows to Christmas markets, this festive tour of London is about doing it your way. 

• Meeting point: Hotel pick-up
• What’s included: Local driver & tour guide, water & biscuits
• What’s not included: Meals & tips

There’s no one better to show you their city than a licensed London taxi driver. Who also happens to be a registered tourist guide! Two-and-a-half hours in a black cab gives you plenty of time to see all the sights you want to.

You can take photos and have refreshment stops along the way, and if you like can be dropped off at a Christmas market instead of your hotel. The itinerary is built around you for this London Christmas lights tour by taxi, and can take the children to see Santa or include a stop at Winter Wonderland. 

• What’s included: Local driver & tour guide, water & snacks

This London Christmas lights tour for 2024 by taxi is great for groups or families, as you can pay a good value rate per person to have the cab to yourselves. Your driver guide will pick you up before taking you on a three hour city tour. 

Your driver is not only that but also a registered tour guide. Under his or her guidance you can see all the sights you want to, including stops for photos. Complimentary mince pies, biscuits and water are supplied to keep your energy levels up!

5 Christmas walking tours of London

• What’s included: Local tour guide
• What’s not included: Meals, transport, entry fees & tips

If you prefer to see things more slowly and enjoy walking, then why not book a private walking tour with an experienced guide? It’s sure to make a most memorable addition to your London Christmas trip.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Then you can head off to see the Leicester Square Christmas Market, Covent Garden, Waterloo Bridge, Borough Market, Tower Bridge and finally Winter Wonderland.

🎄 Click for more information or to book this tour

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Destination: Old London

If it’s old or literary London you want to experience, then book this walking tour led by a history enthusiast. The tour takes you to various locations used by Charles Dickens as the setting for his Christmas Carol story. A literary and festive classic.

Though it’s not strictly a Christmas lights walking tour of London, you can’t avoid seeing the festive illuminations as you stroll around the city during December. En route you’ll also visit the Inns of Court, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, the Royal Exchange, the George and Vulture, Leadenhall Market and more. 

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Meeting point: Covent Garden Tube Station
• What’s included: Local tour guide, mulled wine or cider or soft drink
• What’s not included: Meals, extra drinks & purchases, tips

Also taken on foot, this walking tour offers another great alternative to the usual Christmas bus tour of London. You’ll really get up close to sights like the Christmas markets, a hidden square decorated with Victorian street lamps and Trafalgar Square.

You can also see the Christmas tree with 40,000 lights on it, and enjoy a glass of mulled cider or wine – or a soft drink if you prefer. 

Personalised London walking tour with a local  

• Destination: London 
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, transport, entry fees & tips

Book this tour and an expert local guide will be matched to your own interests. It’s impossible to give an itinerary, as the tour will be tailored to suit exactly what you want to see and where you want to go. 

If your hotel is within central London you can be collected there, before setting off on your festive London voyage of discovery. What will you explore during your fully personalised tour? 

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Destination: London Christmas markets
• Meeting point: London Bridge Station
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, transport, purchases & tips

This walking tour of London takes the guesswork out of getting to the city’s festive markets. Starting out at London Bridge, you’ll visit Christmas markets in Covent Garden, on the South Bank and in Greenwich. 

With four to five hours to spare, you may well have time to stock up on every present or decoration you need to buy! The wooden stalls and smell of mulling spices in the air also make this a magical experience. 

2 Christmas tours of London by boat

Christmas party thames lunch cruise  .

• Destination: River Thames
• Meeting point: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment
• What’s included: River cruise, 3 course meal, drinks, live music
• What’s not included: Extra drinks

You should be feeling thoroughly festive by the time you disembark from this boat cruise on the Thames. The fee includes a three course festive meal plus a glass of sparkling wine and tea or coffee. You’ll also enjoy live music as you sail past key London sights.

Setting off from Westminster, you’ll head to Canary Wharf, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye and The Shard. Do note there’s a smart casual dress code, and that you’ll be seated at a table for ten.  

• Duration: 4 hours
• What’s included: River cruise, 3 course meal, drinks, DJ & dancing

If you fancy partying by night or for even longer, book this four hour cruise along the Thames. It’s like a London Christmas lights tour by boat, with a four course meal, a glass of fizz and half a bottle of wine thrown in. Plus a DJ and dancing.

There’s a bar on board for buying extra drinks, and you can dance the night away after a dinner of turkey and all the trimmings, plus a salmon starter and a chocolate pud. Again you’ll pass key landmarks by the river, all lit up for Christmas. 

1 Christmas bike tour of London

• Meeting point: Kennington Road, London SE11
• What’s included: Tour guide, bike & helmet hire
• What’s not included: Food, drinks or other extras, tips

Take to two wheels to see London at Christmas from a different perspective. Being closer to ground level, you’ll see even more than you would via a typical Christmas lights London bus tour.

With three hours at your disposal, you can cycle past the South Bank Christmas Market, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Harrods and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. You can also see and snap the Christmas window displays at Sloane Square, Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square.

🎁 Click for more information or to book this tour

2 best day trips from London at Christmas

• Duration: 17 hours
• Destination: Bruges, Belgium
• Meeting time: 06:00
• Meeting point: Earls Court underground station
• What’s included: Transport, channel crossing & tour guide

One of the joys of visiting London in winter is how easy it is to access other European destinations during your stay. This day trip will transport you to Bruges, via luxury coach and either ferry or the Eurotunnel.

You’ll have free time to spend in Bruges just as you wish, and can also get all your shopping sewn up at the Christmas market. Highlights to look out for in the city include canals, cobbled streets and mediaeval buildings. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Belgian chocolate too!

• Duration: 9 hours
• Destination: Canterbury & Kent
• Meeting time: 08:30
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Christmas lunch, church service
• What’s not included: Other extras, entry fees & tips

Those interested in the true meaning of Christmas will appreciate the chance to attend a  ‘Sung Eucharist’ service on Christmas Day at the impressive Canterbury Cathedral in Kent. 

During the day you’ll also enjoy a delicious Christmas lunch, as well as seeing majestic Dover Castle and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. A visit to Greenwich , home of the Old Royal Naval College, is also included on the way back to the city. 

3 Christmas Eve tours of London

• Duration: 10 hours
• Meeting time: 08:00
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, boat cruise, Eye & St Paul’s entry fees 
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, Tower of London entry fee & tips

Anyone will tell you not to venture into central London on Christmas Eve, when the streets are thronged with last minute shoppers. Avoid it all by booking this tour, which includes bus and boat transport. 

Entries to the London Eye and St Paul’s cathedral are also included. You’ll also take a cruise on the Thames and see the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. If you’re all prepared for Christmas, this is the perfect way to spend Christmas Eve in the British capital. 

🎁 Click for more information or to book this tour  

• What’s not included: Food, drinks, extras & tips

This tour is very similar to the one above, but is bookable via GetYourGuide rather than Viator. 

During the 10 hour tour you’ll take in Westminster, Buckingham Palace, the City of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye. A boat cruise on the River Thames is also included.

Christmas Eve dinner in London with Midnight Mass  

• Duration: 6.5 hours
• Destination: Central London & St Martin-in-the-Fields
• Meeting time: 18:30
• Meeting point: London Victoria bus stop 3
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, 3 course dinner + fizz, church service 
• What’s not included: Extra drinks, other extras & tips

There’s no more Christmassy way to enjoy London on Christmas Eve than by joining Midnight Mass at St Martin-in-the-Fields church . You’ll start by taking a London bus Christmas lights tour before tucking into dinner at Brown’s.

Next up is the annual Midnight Mass service at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. What better way to celebrate the real meaning of the festive season?

2 Christmas Day London experiences

• Meeting time: 14:00
• What’s included: Transport & tour guide 

After spending Christmas morning at your leisure, why not embark on this afternoon city tour? You’ll see all the sights of central London – and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere or almost-empty streets.

This tour takes you past Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament,  Big Ben, Downing Street, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and Trafalgar Square. Enjoy capturing pictures without the crowds. This is ideal for those who don’t really celebrate Christmas – or want to do something different on that day.  

🎉 Click for more information or to book this tour

London tour plus Christmas Day Sung Eucharist at St Paul’s

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide & hotel pick-up

This is very similar to the above tour, but takes place during the morning instead of the afternoon. You can attend Sung Eucharist at the mighty St Paul’s cathedral with this one, as well as seeing the sights. 

For those who want to experience Christmas in London complete with the church service, this tour is unmissable. 

Whether you fancy escaping the city for the day or want to experience the most peaceful London possible on Christmas Day, there are plenty of ways of tours to take in or from the UK capital during December. 

What will it be? Exploring at your own pace with a local expert, riding around on a bike or open-top bus, or partying on the Thames? Whichever you pick from these Christmas tours in London, have a very merry Christmas in one of the world’s greatest cities!

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s main train stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with a guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the most popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read our budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• Beatles fan? Read our guide to the Beatles in London
• Evenings? Things to do at night in London
• More London tours? Read our comprehensive guide to the best London tours

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"I love surprising our guests with London's incredible diversity. You can go from admiring the dazzling architecture and shopping at the trendy boutiques, to watching grand royal ceremonies and meeting the locals in a 16th-century pub - all in one day."

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Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

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Christmas Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour

Indulge in the festive charm of christmas lights as you relish a delightful christmassy afternoon tea aboard brigit's christmas afternoon tea bus tour..

As you sip your tea or Prosecco, absorb the vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and rich history of London. Our London Routemaster bus promises awe-inspiring views of renowned attractions like Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James's Park, Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson's Column, Downing Street, and more. It's not merely a tea; it's an exploration of London's bright heritage.

Delight in a blend of sweet and savoury flavours – delectable finger sandwiches, featuring classics like smoked salmon and cream cheese, alongside mouthwatering cakes and pastries. Expertly crafted by our executive pastry chef. And of course, no afternoon tea is complete without scones with jam and clotted cream. While Prosecco or Champagne isn't included in the price, you can conveniently pre-order them online.

Why opt for us? Take pride in choosing the original classic tour, conducted on the iconic 1960s Routemaster bus. Our dedication to preserving tradition and creating enduring memories sets us apart.

The 17:00 & 17:30 tours take a distinctive route along Regent Street, offering a splendid view of the Christmas Lights while you savour your delightful afternoon tea.

Don't let this extraordinary adventure pass you by! Secure your spot now for the Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus London Sightseeing Tour and immerse yourself in a tea-infused journey through the heart of London. RESERVE YOUR SEAT today and transform this unique experience into a cherished memory.

Explore our Christmas Afternoon Tea Menu and dietary options below.

Seating plan, bus routes & departure points, purchase gift vouchers, christmas afternoon tea menu.

Freshly Prepared Savouries

Mini spinach & cheddar quiche Cucumber, cream cheese & mint finger on basil bread Turkey ham & cheese, mayo mustard finger on tomato bread Feta, tomato & red pepper savoury muffin Salmon & cucumber pretzel with cream cheese

Assortment of mini Homemade Cakes & Tarts

Mascarpone & fig choux Christmas tree cupcake Cherry & chocolate tart with meringue Eggnog sable (non-alcoholic)

Plain, freshly baked scone with clotted cream and jam

Drink options included in our Christmas Afternoon Tea

Coffee & Hot Chocolate Americano | Cappuccino | Latte Macchiato | Hot Chocolate

Tea Selection

Our exclusive Christmas Tea | English Breakfast | Earl Grey | Earl Grey Decaf | Peppermint | Lemon & Ginger | Berry & Elderflower | Jasmine Tea | Green Tea | Chamomile | Green Tea & Peach

Our Christmas Menu is subject to change.

Sparkling wine.

PROSECCO BRUT SUGAR-FREE VILLA MARCELLO Bottle £39 PROSECCO ROSE VILLA MARCELLO Glass £11 | Bottle £36 PROSECCO ZIA Glass £9 | Bottle £32 NYETIMBER CLASSIC CUVEE Half Bottle £35 | Bottle £65

CASTELNAU BRUT Half Bottle £28 | Bottle £48 LOUIS ROEDERER ROSE Half Bottle £65 CASTELNAU ROSE Bottle £55 CASTELNAU BLANC DE BLANC Bottle £85 LIMITED COLLECTION LOUIS ROEDERER Bottle £95 VINTAGE ROSE LOUIS ROEDERER Bottle £95 CRISTAL LOUIS ROEDERER Bottle £350

Dietary Options & Allergens

Unfortunately, we are unable to cater for: nut-free, peanut-free, combination of dairy & gluten-free, combination of vegan & gluten-free and Coeliacs. Gluten-free menu may contain traces. Vegan and gluten free teas are £3 extra. Please specify requirements upon reservation. All allergies must be emailed and confirmed by management at [email protected] . Thank you for your understanding.

We offer the following alternative Afternoon Tea menus:

CHRISTMAS AT BRIGIT'S BAKERY

We're also serving our scrumptious christmas afternoon tea in the relaxing sanctuary of brigit's bakery in covent garden. check out our brigit's bakery page to book your table., we got to see all the london christmas lights from the comfort of a nice warm bus.

Our tour was booked for 2pm and we were sat on the upper deck so had an amazing view of all the major sites and and an added bonus, we got to see all the London Christmas lights from the comfort of a nice warm bus. The bus was filled with fairy lights, cakes and laughter - what more could you want!!! It was brilliantly organised, the staff were attentive, the selection of sandwiches, mini quiches and cakes were to die for and the atmosphere was amazing. Got off the bus feeling festively full and wanting to do it all over again!! Thank to you all for making my 50th one I will never forget 😊

A fun jaunt around London!

It was a fun jaunt around London. My wife and I took the Christmas tour. I liked the finger foods and it helped that my wife and I opted for the bottle of prosecco. The staff onboard was kind and helpful. I would definitely recommend this bus excursion.

Afternoon Tea in LaLa Land

Our friends booked me and my wife this treat for my birthday and it was excellent, nice food great service one and half hour of travelling around London with good commentary of the sites in between listening to nice xmas carols, really do go into la la land. would recommend this trip to any age group.

A great girly gift!

I booked this tour for myself and my sisters as a Christmas gift for them! They absolutely loved it and I wasn’t disappointed! The staff (Elias and Roger) were great hosts! The free travel coffee cups were a fab unexpected bonus and also a nod to the current environmental issues - I’ve been using mine everyday since! The food itself was to a very high standard! Definitely recommend this!!

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Please note that the photos are from past years and do not depict the current year's Christmas Afternoon Tea menu. There is a recorded guide commentary on our buses and friendly servers to answer any questions! Children under the age of 5 are not permitted due to health and safety regulations.

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Review of Things to Do in London for Christmas

I am one of those people...By the end of November, my house is covered in decorations, the Christmas music is on 24/7, and I've drank my weight in mulled wine.

So when this time of year rolls around, I am all over London trying to do as many festive things as is humanly possible. I've written this guide to share my favourite holiday things to do in London for Christmas 2024!

I've included events, Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, beautiful lights, winter festivals, as well as virtual tour videos.

I'm including the things that I like to do, as well as favourites from guests on my Christmas Markets and Christmas Lights tours, and with som input from our fantastic Facebook page for London Travel Tips .

And in the video below, Sinead, one of my fellow tour guides, takes you on a virtual tour through London's Christmas markets.

I've organized this post into sections, and you can jump to any particular section by clicking on one of the jump links below.

Christmas Lights & Decorations

• Christmas Themed Tours
• Christmas and Holiday Shows
• Christmas Markets
• Ice Skating
• Christmas at Kew Gardens
• London Eye Festive Flight
• Charles Dickens Museum

This is the big one and the one I get asked about the most! This is also my recommendation for anybody travelling on a budget.

A great way to really get into the Christmas spirit without spending a lot of money is simply by walking down the many colorful streets.

During the holiday season, nearly every street and building in London is covered in lights and decorations. In November and December I will sometimes choose to walk or take the bus for journey's I'd normally use the Tube for, just to soak up the atmosphere!

For a longer list of my favourite holiday lights, check out my post about  Christmas Lights and Decorations in London .

However, below I've listed a few streets that stand out above the rest.

• Oxford Street: Probably the most famous of them all, so I think you should put it on your list BUT it is not the most impressive as that accolade goes to...
• New Bond Street: Their display blows me away every year - the last few years have featured peacock feathers and crowns and tiaras. I am so excited to see what they do for 2024.
• Regent Street: The last few years have featured the "spirits" - incredible twinkling angels that make a spectacular array of lights and colours that are guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit!
• And I always make sure to visit London's official Christmas tree at least once a year. You'll find it in Trafalgar Square .

CHRISTMAS-THEMED TOURS

There are many holiday and Christmas-inspired tours available to you in London, including bus tours, walking tours, and even bike tours.

See my post on the top 7 Christmas tours of London  to see the many options.

I, of course, will encourage you to join our  London Holiday Lights Tour as seen in this video!

More information is listed just below the video.

Join us as we walk through Bavarian Christmas markets, tread the cobbled streets of the beautifully decorated Covent Garden and uncover hidden gems you'd never find on your own!

I love this tour because it's not just visually stunning, it also delves into London’s Christmas season secrets as well as a journey to the past to discover some of the UK's best beloved (or long forgotten) holiday traditions.

Take in all that London has to offer this Christmas with Tours By Foot London!

Locations visited:

• Oxford Street
• New Bond Street
• Regent Street
• Carnaby Street
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• Covent Garden
• And a few other surprises along the way...

Tour information

Reservations:   Click here to reserve .

Where:  The tour begins at Oxford Circus. The exact location will be provided upon booking.

Duration:  2 hours.

When:  This tour runs every day but Tuesday. View our full tour calendar

Don't Want to Walk?: Consider joining us for a Christmas Lights Tour in the back of an iconic London black cab! All our cabs are the newest models with panoramic roofs and they can git up to 6 people. This is a great option - especially on our chilly winter days! If you're interested, just drop me a line: [email protected]

If you’re more interested in learning about the history of street art of this city, make sure to check our list of London Walking Tours .

CHRISTMAS SHOWS

Every year you can find many Christmas and Holiday shows in London, including musicals, ballet performances, plays, and traditional pantomimes. Truly the options are endless!

I like to have a mix of the classic, traditional shows and something a little bit different.

For classics, check out The Nutcracker (at the Royal Albert Hall this year, one of my favourite venues!), Handel's Messiah , the traditional rendering of A Christmas Carol , and the truly unique and stunning Concerts by Candlelight at St. Martin-in-the-Fields (I go EVERY year - it's one of my favourite musical experiences in the capital full stop).

But if you'd like something a little off-the-wall, consider La Clique ! This is another must-do for me each holiday season. It's a cabaret act unlike anything I've ever seen before. It's a mix of a circus, comedy, acrobatics, and music - I go every year and have never been disappointed. It's put on as part of the Leicester Square Christmas Market so I like to make a whole evening out of it.

I am not originally from the UK and when I first moved here I had to learn the ways of a Christmas holiday pantomime ("panto") and now I make sure to see at least one every year. I think The Big Panto Guide has the ultimate list and you'll find multiple options for both adults and children.

I mentioned above that the Royal Albert Hall is one of my favourite venues and you'll find they dedicate the entire month of December to a full schedule of Christmas-themed performances ! They've recently become known for their concerts where giant screens show a film (I most recently saw Amadeus) while a live orchestra plays the soundtrack to the movie. This December they're doing Home Alone and I cannot wait!

See my post on  Christmas and Holiday Shows with over 30 performances, carol singalongs, ballets, and more that you can take in during the holiday season.

LONDON CHRISTMAS MARKETS

I always encourage the guests on my tour to visit at least one Christmas Market in London - even if they're not big shoppers!

I feel like a trip to the Christmas Markets are more like an experience rather than a way to buy things. The markets here are always decorated beautifully, there's usually Christmas music playing and there's tons of delicious street food - and, my top choice for a winter tipple, they all have mulled wine.

London boasts a huge variety of Christmas markets, including some that are more quaint and traditional, as well as others that are very big and modernised.

You can see my comprehensive list of the  best Christmas markets in London  here, but below the video, I list my favourites.

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is the biggest Christmas market in London. I get asked about Winter Wonderland a lot and most people just want to know, "Is it worth it?" Truthfully, I think so! I will admit it does get very crowded - so I try to go early on a weekday to beat the rush - but I enjoy the atmosphere and the production value is high.
• Southbank Centre Christmas Market is conveniently located along the River Thames is probably my favourite of the Markets. I love strolling along the River and browsing through the traditional chalets selling holiday trinkets, traditional German food, and mulled wine.
• The Greenwich Christmas Market doesn't get the love I think it deserves. It features an amazing array of over 100 chalets and last year when I visited they had live carollers which was fantastic!

ICE SKATING IN LONDON

If you want to get your skates on, there is no shortage of incredible ice rinks to go skating on in London during the holiday season. I find that a lot of people get overwhelmed when trying to decide which rink to go to.

In my opinion, as with the Christmas markets, you really can't go wrong with any of these options.

In the video below, Sinead brings you virtually to the ice skating rink at Somerset House.

Here are a couple of my favourites:

• Somerset House - I like to think of this as the Times Square of London in terms of ice rinks! The surroundings are stunning: it's set in the courtyard of a 17th-century building. I think the biggest downside is that it gets booked up quickly and is almost always quite busy
• Hampton Court Palace - My top choice for rinks in the city used to be the Tower of London but as they aren't operating the rink this year I've moved onto the stunning Hampton Court Palace. I can't think of anything cooler than iceskating in the courtyard of a royal palace!
• For a full list, check my post: The Best Ice Skating Rinks in London .

CHRISTMAS AT KEW GARDENS

This is one of my favourite London holiday events and, although I always see big enough crowds, I find that it's really underrated by locals.

Last time I visited I trailed along interactive displays, walked through glittering tunnels of light, past flickering flames, and watched a light, water and music display that actually defies description. It was the best Christmas event I attended all year.

I also think this is probably the best option for families on my list - my niece and nephews ask to go every year.

And, in the video below, Sinead takes you on a virtual tour of Winter at Kew Gardens from 2022.

There will also be food, music, and vintage fairground rides so there is something for everyone!

• When : 13th Nov - 5th Jan
• Adult: From £32.00
• Child: From £20.00
• Under 4: FREE
• Nearest Underground Station: Kew Gardens
• More information here .

Tip: This one books out quickly so I always buy my tickets ASAP and I recommend you do the same.

CHRISTMAS IN COVENT GARDEN

A lot of my visitors ask me if Covent Garden is really "touristy" and the truth is: a little bit. BUT every Londoner I know tries to go there at least once during the Christmas Season.

Christmas is a special time in Covent Garden, and in 2024 things are particularly festive! The lights go on, on the 12th of November and the beautiful bells and sparkle balls from last season are going to be on show in the covered market again. I love to walk through to browse the stalls and sip some mulled wine.

It's also a great place to see street performers who display their acts near the iconic 55-foot tall Christmas tree in the piazza.

To get a feel for the market, check out Sinead's virtual tour from 2022 below.

One of the things I like about Covent Garden at Christmas is it's not just decorations - it's a full itinerary of festive things to see, do, hear, eat and drink! Check out my full post on Christmas at Covent Garden .

The Covent Garden Christmas Village features chalet-style market stalls selling handmade goods, street food vendors, musical performances, and a chance to sit in Santa's sleigh. (I noticed last year that this was one of the most instagrammed locations in the city.)

I think the best mulled wine in the city is served at Covent Garden and you can learn about the secret spot I like to drink it in my post about London's Christmas Lights .

LONDON EYE FESTIVE FLIGHT SPECIAL

For Christmas, The London Eye is promising to "wow guests with a bespoke Christmas light up design that you definitely don't want to miss!"

I've got no other details to go on just yet so watch this space...

To find out about booking a regular ticket to ride this incredible attraction, read our post on  how to get cheaper tickets to the London Eye .

CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM

My grandfather played Ebenezer Scrooge on stage every Christmas for over 20 years so I've always had a soft spot for the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. But even if you don't love it - no London Christmas would be complete without a visit to the charming Charles Dickens Museum.

As stated on their website, this museum holds the “world’s most important collection of paintings, rare editions, manuscripts, original furniture, and other items relating to the life and work of Dickens.”

For Christmas they have live performances, magic lantern shows, guided tours and musical events. My favourite, though, is their Christmas Eve event. I went once before and was blown away!

Upon entering I was given a mince pie and mulled wine (and there was a festive alternative for my sober friend) and we were left to roam the house and see the Victorian Christmas decorations spread throughout. They also had The Muppet Christmas Carol playing on "the smallest theatre in the world." It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I can't recommend it enough!

And in the video below, Jess, a guide with Free Tours by Foot and a.k.a. the Museum Guide, takes you on a virtual tour of the museum at Christmas.

This impressive collection is carefully arranged and displayed over the three floors of the house.  

Learn more about visiting in my post on the Charles Dickens Museum .

HOGWARTS IN THE SNOW

If you've read any of my other blog posts, you'll know I'm a huge fan of the Harry Potter books and films. The WB Studios is, in my opinion, one of the most incredible Potter experiences in the world and for Christmas, they take it one step further!

From the 16th of November to the 19th of January guests to the studios get to experience a very "Harry Christmas" and see the sets of the iconic film series decked out in Christmas cheer.

I went last year and even though it's not cheap (almost £60 for an adult) I might go back again...

My favourite part was the Great Hall featuring over a dozen Christmas trees but I also got to learn dance steps for the Yule Ball, walk through snowy Diagon Alley and learned about never-melting snow and the way the festive season was portrayed on screen for the Harry Potter movies.

I can't recommend this one enough! You can book your tickets on the Hogwarts in the Snow website .

MIDNIGHT MASS AND FESTIVE CHURCH SERVICES

I'm not a regular church goer, but there is something about the Christmas Season and Midnight Mass that appeals to a lot of people! Of course, in London we have no shortage of churches to visit on the evening of the 24th of December. In fact, it's possible to enjoy Midnight Mass, and festive worship services at some of the world's most famous churches.

Although the majority of these events are free, I always make a donation as the running of these sites of worship comes with considerable cost and I also like to contribute to their historical preservation - particularly with some of the smaller churches.

• St. Martin's in the Fields: They also have a full programme of events including my favourite Concerts by Candlelight .
• St. James's Piccadilly: They have some of my favourite carol performances in the entire city as well as a packed schedule in the lead up to their Midnight Mass on December 24th.
• Westminster Cathedral: They hold mass on both the 24th and on Christmas Day so for those Catholic visitors, put this one on your list. The interiors alone are worth a visit.
• Westminster Abbey: Details have not yet been released so keep an eye on their website .
• St. Paul's Cathedral: They have a full schedule of Christmas events including concerts, church services and carol performances.

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Home to buckingham palace, from trendsetting shops and stylish hotels to world-class theater and regal history, london is the heartbeat of britain..

Commanding cathedrals stand alongside trendy boutiques. Sophisticated restaurants complement traditional pubs. Perfectly manicured parks sprawl near museums that are rich in medieval history. As you take it all in, keep an eye out for celebrities, superstars and royal showstoppers.

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Property offers upscale design and decor, superior dining venues, manicured grounds, and a high level of service and hospitality.

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London: the trafalgar st. james london, curio collection by hilton package.

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From treasured landmarks to sipping afternoon tea, there is something for everyone in London. The Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, the giant clock and bell, on the banks of the Thames are the classic backdrop of London, with Westminster Abbey, the site of coronations and royal marriages, standing nearby. Enjoy panoramic views from Tower Bridge and visit the nearby Tower of London, with its rich history and the crown jewels of England. Speaking of royalty, catch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, the residence of the reigning monarchs.

In central London, enjoy Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, the British Museum, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. London also has a splendid array of markets to explore, like Covent Garden or Portobello Road on Notting Hill. And for evening entertainment, enjoy world-renowned theaters and lively clubs in London’s West End. With all this and more, the historic and vibrant European capital of London is an absolute must-see.

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The heaviest tourist season runs mid-April through mid-October, with another peak around Christmas—though the tide never really ebbs. Spring is the time to see the countryside and the royal London parks and gardens at their freshest; fall to enjoy near-ideal exploring conditions. In late summer, be warned: air-conditioning is rarely found in places other than department stores, modern restaurants, hotels, and cinemas in London, and in a hot summer you'll swelter. Winter can be rather dismal, but all the theatres, concerts, and exhibitions go full speed.

It's virtually impossible to forecast London weather, but you can be fairly certain that it will not be what you expect. It's generally mild—with some savage exceptions, especially in summer. In short, be prepared for anything: layers and an umbrella are your friends.

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Tower of London : Iconic castle and infamous prison, the Yeoman Warders and their ravens will regale you with tales of the exploits of history that occurred within its walls. A viewing of the Crown Jewels will complete the visit.

Buckingham Palace : Official residence of the monarchy when in the city and backdrop to the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony occurring daily in the summer, and four times a week weather permitting at other times of the year at 11 a.m., subject to change.

Westminster Abbey : With over 1,000 years of history, this still functioning church houses the final resting places and memorials to many former monarchs and important figures of history such as Robert Browning, Charles Dickens, Stephen Hawking, Sir Isaac Newton and Queen Elizabeth I, to name a few.

Thames River Cruise : A sightseeing cruise through the city during day or night is a unique way to view aspects of the area only viewed by water.

London Eye : 360-degree views of the city from a glass enclosed pod circling on a large ferris wheel.

British Museum : With free entry, you can explore millions of years of human history and culture. With more than 60 galleries and rotating exhibits, you will find plenty of interest, including Egyptian culture and the Rosetta Stone, to the sculpture and pottery of the Roman Empire.

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• Historic and Modern London
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• Stonehenge, Lacock and afternoon in City of Bath (small-group tour)
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• Private visit of Leeds Castle, Canterbury, White Cliffs of Dover and Greenwich, plus a river cruise
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• Panoramic tour of London with St Paul's Cathedral and Guard Change
• Panoramic tour of London with St Paul's Cathedral and Guard Change, plus a river cruise
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