A Secret Christmas In London

As it won't be long until Christmas creeps us on us once again, let us guide you through some of the unique activities London has to offer this festive season. Read on if you fancy a change from your usual yuletide traditions!

Why visit London at Christmas?

Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the first time, or a local who has lived here their whole life, London has so much to offer all year round. However, Christmastime is particularly spectacular: as the temperature drops and the days get shorter, London turns into a festive wonderland with stunning light installations, plenty of options for warming food and drink, and Christmas trees everywhere you go. So, if you’re visiting this Christmas, or looking for something a bit different to do this year, read on for some inspiration!

Christmas lights in Mayfair. An angel and its wings hanging over the road between the shops on either side. There is moving traffic at the bottom with a red bus and black cab

Take An Open Top Bus Tour

Firstly, rather than simply strolling down Oxford Street to see the lights, why not take a night-time open top bus tour around London? See some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Trafalgar Square, the London Eye and the Tower of London, and their twinkling lights in all their glory.

Kew Gardens entrance kit up in blue festive lights at night

Visit The Capital's Light Displays

Or if that doesn’t take your fancy, head down to one of the city’s extraordinary light displays where you can immerse yourself in a festive wonderland. One of the capital’s most popular light festivals takes place at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, and as it’s celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year – it’s sure to be a good one!

small present boxes wrapped with red ribbon and a bow on the top underneath a christmas tree which looks to be in a family home

Take a Christmas Craft Class

Why not put your creativity to the rest and take part in some Christmas craft classes? With various classes taking place all over London, each offering the opportunity to make different festive creations – from wreaths to baubles to cards – you can get into the festive spirit, whilst creating beautiful decorations for your house, or a special gift to give to a loved one.

Dine In An Igloo

Or if arts and crafts isn’t really your cup of tea, head down to one of the capital’s trendy winter pop-ups or igloos where you can enjoy dinner, drinks and – in some cases – spectacular views, The Coppa Club at Tower Bridge – the place that started the igloo trend – offers all three of these. However, if you’re looking for somewhere a bit different this year, why not try Jimmy’s Winter Lodge and Snow Globes on the Southbank where you and some friends can enjoy fondue and other alpine-themed treats.

A bright red telephone box with a christmas tree lightig up in the background

Head To The Theatre

Theatre or movie fanatic? Take a trip to the Southbank Centre and listen to some of the most iconic Christmas movie soundtracks played by the Philharmonia Orchestra, or watch the timeless classic ‘Elf’ come alive on stage at London’s Dominion Theatre.

An image of the entrance to Covent garden market at night time. There is a christmas tree with lights on and a few groups of people

Spread Some Christmas Cheer!

Finally, if you feel like spreading some Christmas cheer, why not participate in ‘The Great Christmas Pudding Race’? – a dress up obstacle course in aid of Cancer Research UK! Taking place in Covent Garden on the 10th December, this is sure to get you into the festive spirit.