Things To Do In London This Christmas
Kevin, November 29th, 2024Christmas in the capital? Nothing beats it!
London has more to offer than the best theatre shows in the world - don't take our word for it, wrap up warm and see it yourself...just beware of the overpriced fudge and sweets! So Christmassy you'll feel like a kid again, London is the go-to for a mulled wine (or five), twinkling lights, and getting giddy pre-show - and the greatest gift of all? The festive fun is just one tube away. Here's what Santa has in store.
Christmas Attractions
Winter Wonderland
A classic, and very cheap. You'll probably walk around with melted chocolate on your face, listen to someone singing Christmas songs on guitar at a pop-up bar, and be drawn into a prize every time' soiree - but this place has every ride and circus act you could wish for. It's one giant festive market and is like walking in a Winter Wonderland.
Christmas Lights Bus Tour
London has never looked so pretty and bright! Put your tourist hat on and see how The Big Smoke does Christmas with this epic sparkly night-time guided bus tour. Many of London's infamous landmarks, including Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge come to life in festive lights, and it's a great way to get into the Christmas spirit whilst ticking places to see off the list!
Harry Potter World
Just a short broomstick (or coach) ride from central London, winter has arrived in the Wizarding world, and the sets are decked out in festive fancy. The Great Hall is lined with Christmas trees, and the rooftops of Hogsmeade are blanketed in snow. You can warm yourself with a butterbeer or a flaming Christmas pudding as you relive your favourite wizarding moments. The fireplaces roar with special effects. Even the Gryffindor common room has baubles and tinsel. Alternatively, you can always book Harry Potter and The Cursed Child tickets!
Ice Skating
Glide under the dome of Somerset House with its towering Christmas tree or spin circles at the Natural History Museum surrounded by fairy lights - and remember, no one cares if you look like a clumsy penguin! Want something even more dramatic? Head to the Queen's House Ice Rink in Greenwich - it's like skating through a Christmas card, with sweeping views of the Thames and London skyline.
Christmas Lights Hunt - A Magical Mystery in London
Solve an interactive festive adventure as you stroll through London's beautifully lit streets. This one-of-a-kind experience leads you past iconic landmarks, uncovering hidden gems and secret illuminations that will fill your heart with holiday joy. Don't miss the chance to experience London's magical atmosphere this season! Get your tickets for Christmas Lights Hunt - A Magical Mystery in London now!
Christmas Shows
London Coliseum, Dec 12, 2024 - Jan 12, 2025
A tale of adventure and magic, The Nutcracker is one of the Christmas season's must-see shows and who better to perform this cherished classic than the English National Ballet? Back with a brand new production for 2024 with choreography by the company's Artistic Director, Aaron S. Watkin, and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith, be prepared to fall in love with The Nutcracker all over again when it steps into the London Coliseum from December 12th!
Old Vic Theatre, Until Jan 4, 2025
Humbugs beware! This affectionate production brings Charles Dickens' classic tale to life once again for the 2024 Holiday season! First debuting in 2017 at London's iconic Old Vic Theatre, this adaptation from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child writer Jack Thorne and Old Vic Artistic Director Matthew Warchus, has been praised for its joyful and warmhearted approach to the fable. Prepare to meet a brand new Scrooge (played by John Simm) in this gloriously festive reimagining!
Sadlers Wells Theatre, Until Jan 4, 2025
Birmingham Repertory Theatre's wildly successful live stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs' best-loved children's book marks its 27th return to the Peacock this Christmas. Cemented as one of London's best Christmas traditions, this production makes use of a live orchestra, singing, and charming choreography. Including the haunting "Walking in the Air", the show re-imagines Briggs' book and subsequent film for new audiences and old, without losing any of its original charm.
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, Until Jan 5, 2025
The Globe becomes a winter wonderland this Christmas as this glittering adaptation of Simon Armitage's reimagining of the classic folk tale returns for 2024. Join siblings Hansel and Gretel for a delicious adventure as they try to discover a way out of the forest, instead discovering the sweet-covered cottage of a kind old woman. But all is not as it seems, as the pair discover the dessert house is not the only thing on the menu!
