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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 - 4th November 2026
The official switch on for 2026 is taking place on Wednesday 4th 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 2026 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 - 5th November 2026
Regent Street’s famous angel display will return for 2026 on 5th November. Regent Street is iconically 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 - Early November 2026
Stroll down Oxford Street at dusk where you will find their fantastic lights and decorations. The display this year will be Harry Potter themed which coincides with the opening of the brand new Harry Potter store on Oxford Street. 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 2026
Home to one of the biggest Christmas trees in London at 60 feet, this hand-picked tree is an impressive sight set in the 19th Century streets of Covent Garden. The theme for 2026 is "The Theatre of Christmas" with 300,000 sparkling lights and the return of the iconic gold bells, mirror balls and baubles hung in the Market Building. You'll find plenty of festive acitivites going on in Covent Garden.
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 - 13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
1. Hogwarts in the Snow – 14th November 2026 – 17th January 2027
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.
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.
2. Christmas at Kew - 13 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
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 – find further details on the Kew Gardens website.
3. Theatres - Throughout November 2026 to January 2027
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:
Cinderella at The London Palladium
The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic Theatre
Potted Panto at Apollo Theatre
A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at Wyndham's 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 2026 and into 2027. Book your Christmas trip now to get the best fares!
Cinderella at The London Palladium
The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic Theatre
Potted Panto at Apollo Theatre
A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at Wyndham's 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 2026 and into 2027. Book your Christmas trip now to get the best fares!
