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A brilliant way to get into the Christmas spirit is to stroll along the glistening streets of London and visit the festive attractions within the capital. Whether you are a visitor or a local to London, you can be sure to enjoy a range of activities this Christmas time, whatever the budget. From free Christmas lights switch on events to ice skating at iconic locations across the city, take a look at our favourites below to find inspiration for your trip to London this Christmas.
Christmas Lights
Most of the main Christmas lights are switched on in November so you can be sure to be feeling festive throughout the run up to the big day. Even better, why not attend a light switch on where you can be amongst the brilliant atmosphere, with music, shopping discounts and deals and in-store events. You might even spot a celebrity special guest!1. Carnaby Street
An alternative to the traditional Christmas displays, Carnaby Street switches on its lights on 7th November at 6pm. In 2018, the street was lit with an impressive, vivid neon Bohemian Rhapsody lyric display. 2019 sees a theme of sustainability with a striking underwater scene, in collaboration with ocean conservation charity, Project Zero. Created from repurposed, recycled and vegan materials, each area of Carnaby Street will present different underwater locations that are in much need of awareness and conservation.2. Oxford Street
Stroll down Oxford Street at dusk where you will find their fantastic lights and decorations. Their annual switch on always attracts many visitors to the famous shopping street and this year will be the 60th year the area has been decorated for Christmas. Last year saw over 750,000 lights and over 1,500 baubles so you can expect an impressive display. It is also the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas shopping sorted at the same time! Oxford Streets Christmas lights will be switched on from 21st November.3. Regent Street
This year is the 200th anniversary of Regent Street so we can expect an impressive display to mark the occasion. The official switch on takes place on 14th November from 5:30pm – 6:30pm. A traffic-free Regent Street will present a fantastic event full of entertainment for everyone including in-store and on-street surprises, special guests and music. The famous angels will be returning to soar above the visitors below, inspired by the original display dating back to 1954 and taking on the theme of the Spirit of Christmas. With 300,000 glistening lights, this Christmas display is the biggest in London.4. Covent Garden
Home to one of the biggest Christmas trees in London, this hand-picked tree is an impressive sight, draped with 30,000 lights, set in the 19th Century streets of Covent Garden. The big switch on will take place at 5:30pm on 12th November and you can expect a reappearance of 40 mistletoe chandeliers and over 100,000 lights illuminating the Market Building. More details will be revealed here.
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. You’ll find family favourites such as a trip to the theatre, the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour and ice skating at well known locations, from the Natural History Museum to Somerset House.
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
Hogwarts in the Snow: 16th November 2019 to 26th January 2020
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 a 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 movies. Learn the secrets of how the filmmakers created the special effects and get hands on experience on the different types of filmmaking “snow” for different scenes. You’ll be sure to discover more surprises and magic along the way. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Hogwarts in the Snow: 16th November 2019 to 26th January 2020
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 a 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 movies. Learn the secrets of how the filmmakers created the special effects and get hands on experience on the different types of filmmaking “snow” for different scenes. You’ll be sure to discover more surprises and magic along the way. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
2. Christmas at Kew
Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB
20th November 2019 – 5th January 2020
Now in its 7th year, Christmas at Kew is a brilliant and beautiful way to spend an evening in London. Winding through Kew Gardens after-dark, this attraction will showcase enchanting installations such as light, music and water displays, interactive colour-changing vines, waterfalls and a tunnel of light, throughout a twinkling trail of 1 million lights! With something for all of the family, children can enjoy vintage fairground rides and even catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves along the illuminated trail. You can also enjoy a bite to eat in the food village or visit the Pavilion Bar and Grill at the end of the trail. Tickets must be purchased in advance – please find further details on the Kew Gardens website.
20th November 2019 – 5th January 2020
Now in its 7th year, Christmas at Kew is a brilliant and beautiful way to spend an evening in London. Winding through Kew Gardens after-dark, this attraction will showcase enchanting installations such as light, music and water displays, interactive colour-changing vines, waterfalls and a tunnel of light, throughout a twinkling trail of 1 million lights! With something for all of the family, children can enjoy vintage fairground rides and even catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves along the illuminated trail. You can also enjoy a bite to eat in the food village or visit the Pavilion Bar and Grill at the end of the trail. Tickets must be purchased in advance – please find further details on the Kew Gardens website.
3. Ice Skating
Skate in style with views of iconic London locations. Another popular festive activity, ice rinks pop up in various locations such as Somerset House, Hampton Court Palace, Tower of London and the Natural History Museum. Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park hosts the largest outdoor ice rink in the UK. Many locations require pre-booking so do check before you arrive. Whether you are a skilled skater or a complete novice, why not get your skates on this Christmas?
4. Theatres
Another 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 day out in London this Christmas. Whether you enjoy classic favourites, festive ballets or the latest West End productions, you have it all to choose from in the capital. Take your pick from family favourites like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, starring Paul O’Grady, Matt Baker and Julian Clary, and Disney on Ice which is showing at various venues. If you’re after something more classic, A Christmas Carol is showing at the Old Vic Theatre from 23rd November 2019 to 18th January 2020.
Looking for even more festive inspiration? Check out a selection of shopping locations and Christmas markets here!
Looking for even more festive inspiration? Check out a selection of shopping locations and Christmas markets here!
