Christmas in London is like stepping into a real-life movie! The city wraps itself up in twinkling lights, and every corner feels like a scene from a festive fairy tale.

You can ice skate with friends against the backdrop of the London Eye, sip on hot chocolate while wandering through Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, and catch the warm glow of Trafalgar Square’s famous Christmas tree.

The streets, from Oxford Street to Covent Garden, become a glittering setting for shopping and festive cheer.

With theatres putting on special Christmas shows, and charming markets popping up, London turns into a giant joyous playground during the holiday season making it impossible not to catch the Christmas spirit!

See Father Christmas!

See the big man himself at his winter wonderland Christmas grotto and the amazing array of toys at London’s renowned toy shop, Hamleys, in Regent Street.

From Sunday 12th November 2023 until Christmas Eve, families can visit Father Christmas’ Grotto. Children will receive a special gift from Father Christmas to take home!

This visit to Father Christmas is advised for ages 2 – 8 years old, but the entire family is welcome to tag along.

For full prices and to book, visit www.Hamleys.com.

‘Tis the season for skating!

Ice skating during the Christmas period is more than just festive fun—it’s like giving your little ones the gift of laughter, exercise, and unforgettable memories all wrapped up in one sparkly snowy package! We’ve selected our top picks for open ice skating in London this year:

• Skate at Somerset house: in the courtyard of this timeless neoclassical building, skate in front of the 40ft Christmas tree on Somerset House’s 900-sqaure-metre outdoor rink.
• Glide at Battersea Power Station: in the shadow of the newly refurbished Battersea Power Station glide around the 30ft Christmas tree on the three interconnected ice rinks, surrounded by other Christmas attractions and rides.
• Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink: skate around history and enjoy festive beverages this Christmas at Hampton Court’s huge illuminated 1040-square-metre outdoor rink.
• Canary Wharf Ice Rink: over a period of 18 weeks from 21 October, the under-cover 1275 square-metre ice rink at Canary Wharf gives skaters the opportunity to glide by the shimmering light of the giant mirror ball.

Christmas Tree displays in London

London sparkles with holiday magic as dazzling Christmas tree displays adorn iconic landmarks, transforming the streets into a festive wonderland of lights and cheer. Read below to see our top picks for breath-taking Christmas trees to visit on your next trip to London:

• The iconic Norwegian spruce tree in Trafalgar Square. From Friday 1st December, the famous London landmark will be illuminated in the sparking light of the tree known as the “Queen of the Forest”.
• The highly anticipated St. Pancras Christmas tree puts a spin on the traditional tree we know and love. Referencing the nearby British Library, this tree is built from endless bookshelves filled with classic books and cosy reading nooks, this tree is one not to miss!
• Covent Garden has the largest hand-picked tree in London, at 60-feet tall. Illuminated by over 30 thousand Christmas lights, this spectacle is another not to miss!
• Another must see is Leadenhall Market, which inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

Visit the Christmas Markets

The festive atmosphere comes alive at London’s Christmas Markets, where twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and artisanal crafts create a magical experience for visitors. With Christmas markets appearing around the city, we have narrowed down our top choices of markets this Christmas.

• Year after year, the Southbank Centre is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland, with festive stalls offering a variety of gifts, alongside beverages and delicious snacks.
• Browse pottery and ceramics at the Christmas Independent Ceramics Market in Peckham. View the works of over 150 pottery makers.
•  Fancy some hustle and bustle? Visit Spitalfields Christmas Market to shop unique fashion, toys, jewellery, art, and homeware, with plenty of great sustainable options.
• Get into the festive spirit at Kingston Christmas Market. Stroll beneath the shimmering fairy lights and indulge in a selection of yummy food options to immerse yourself in festive Christmas cheer.

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