Great Value Train Travel
Get into the Christmas spirit by strolling along the glistening streets of London and visiting festive attractions within the capital. Whether you're a visitor or a London local, you can be sure to find a range of activities this Christmas time whatever the budget.
From exploring the city’s Christmas lights to taking a trip to the theatre, take a look at our favourites below to find inspiration for your rail trip to London this Christmas.
From exploring the city’s Christmas lights to taking a trip to the theatre, take a look at our favourites below to find inspiration for your rail trip to London this Christmas.
Christmas Lights
Most of the main Christmas lights are switched on in November so you can feel festive throughout the run up to the big day.
1. Carnaby Street - 6th November 2025
The official switch on for 2025 is taking place on Thurday 6th November. This year, the new ‘All is Bright’ display brings the next chapter of the sustainable, state-of-the-art scheme, with a fresh direction for the 2025 festivities. It is a destination not to be missed and there are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to explore this Christmas. Its central location makes it easy to include a trip to Carnaby Street on your next trip to London.
2. Regent Street - 6th November 2025
Regent Street’s famous angel display will return for 2025 on 6th November. Last year, Regent Street was dressed with 300,000 glistening lights making it one of the biggest displays in London. A tradition that began back in 1954, this display has continued to impress over the years. The Spirit of Christmas will bring the return of the famous angels soaring above Regent Street, inspired by the original 1954 display. There will be 45 sparkling angels in total, making any trip to Regent Street a festive one.
3. Oxford Street - 3th November 2025
Stroll down Oxford Street at dusk where you will find their fantastic lights and decorations. The display this year will feature over 5,000 LED star lights, and the event will raise funds for the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. A "Big Day of Joy" with live performances and activities will take place on 7th December. It is the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas shopping sorted at the same time as admiring the festive display.
4. Covent Garden - 12th November 2025
Home to one of the biggest Christmas trees in London at 60 feet, this hand-picked tree is an impressive sight draped with 30,000 lights and set in the 19th Century streets of Covent Garden. Expect to see new decorations for 2025 including 40 giant bells with bows, 12 giant baubles and 8 mirror balls hung in the Market Building! You'll find plenty of festive acitivites going on in Covent Garden this year, including a Sleigh photo opportunity, the Winter Warmer Festival with plenty of mulled wine and Festive Thursdays - find out more here.
5. Marylebone Village - 12th November 2025
12th November is the official switch on date for 2025! Previous years see Marylebone Village home to all things festive including snow machines, a Santa's grotto and a range of food and refreshment stalls. Shops, restaurants and bars around the area will take part offering special discounts and offers throughout the festive period.
Festive Attractions
A great addition to any festive London itinerary, a Christmas attraction can be fun for all the family. London is home to some of the best and most popular attractions and even more so at Christmas time.
2. Christmas at Kew - 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
1. Hogwarts in the Snow – 15th November 2025 – 18th January 2026
Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
A short journey outside of London and you’ll be transported behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films, with original props that many of us will recognise. This already remarkable attraction will undergo its annual festive transformation into Hogwarts in the Snow, making it even more magical than ever. See sets such as the Great Hall and the Gryffindor Common Room with a Christmas makeover as they were decorated for the films. Tickets must be purchased in advance - book here.
A short journey outside of London and you’ll be transported behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films, with original props that many of us will recognise. This already remarkable attraction will undergo its annual festive transformation into Hogwarts in the Snow, making it even more magical than ever. See sets such as the Great Hall and the Gryffindor Common Room with a Christmas makeover as they were decorated for the films. Tickets must be purchased in advance - book here.
2. Christmas at Kew - 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB
Christmas at Kew is a beautiful way to spend an evening in London. Winding through Kew Gardens after-dark, this attraction will showcase enchanting light and music installations including a tunnel of light. You’ll find something for all the family along this twinkling trail of lights. Along the trail, enjoy food and drink from independent street food vendors offering festive treats. Tickets must be purchased in advance – please find further details on the Kew Gardens website.
3. Theatres - Throughout November 2024 to January 2025
An ultimate Christmas tradition is taking the family on a trip to the theatre. London is home to plenty of pantomimes and live shows that are certain to be a fantastic addition to any visit to the capital this Christmas. Whether you enjoy classic favourites, festive ballets or the latest West End productions, you have it all to choose from. Don't miss these brilliant shows this Christmas:
A Christmas Carol at the Old Vic
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at the Apollo Theatre
Elf The Musical at the Aldwych Theatre
Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre
Paddington the Musical at Savoy Theatre
Looking for even more festive inspiration? Check out a selection of shopping locations and Christmas markets here or or find out what’s on this Christmas in Hull, Beverley and London here!
Advance tickets are available on the Hull Trains website and app throughout December 2025 and into 2026. Book your Christmas trip now to get the best fares!
A Christmas Carol at the Old Vic
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at the Apollo Theatre
Elf The Musical at the Aldwych Theatre
Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre
Paddington the Musical at Savoy Theatre
Looking for even more festive inspiration? Check out a selection of shopping locations and Christmas markets here or or find out what’s on this Christmas in Hull, Beverley and London here!
Advance tickets are available on the Hull Trains website and app throughout December 2025 and into 2026. Book your Christmas trip now to get the best fares!
