London's ultimate Christmas guide

things to do in London around Christmas

London is pure magic during Christmas! The city’s twinkling lights, festive spirit, and seasonal events make it feel like you’re stepping into a Christmas card. Start with a visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park—full of funfair rides, ice skating, and mulled wine. Fancy a bit of ice skating with history? Glide around Somerset House's stunning rink or go big at the Natural History Museum's ice rink. For something cosier, stroll down Oxford Street and Regent Street to admire the beautiful Christmas lights. If you’re into Christmas carols, catch a festive concert at St. Paul’s Cathedral or the Royal Albert Hall.

the London streets adorned with holiday ornaments like stars

London's best Christmas markets

London’s Christmas markets are the perfect places to get your festive fill! Covent Garden’s Christmas market is as Christmassy as it gets, with charming stalls, massive Christmas trees, and snow-dusted decorations. These are London´s best Christmas markets to visit this December:

  • Covent Garden Christmas Market Twinkling lights, a giant Christmas tree, and snow-dusted stalls filled with quirky gifts. It’s the ultimate Christmas scene!
  • Southbank Centre Winter Market A German-style market on the river, with bratwurst, mulled wine, and handmade crafts galore—all set against the Thames.
  • Christmas by the River at London Bridge Indie vibes with handmade goods and gourmet treats, plus the iconic view of Tower Bridge as your festive backdrop.
  • Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park The king of Christmas markets! From gifts and food stalls to rides and a full-on carnival atmosphere, it’s a must-visit.
  • Leicester Square Christmas Market Right in the heart of the West End, it’s perfect for a pre- or post-theatre festive browse. Grab a hot chocolate and soak up the Christmas cheer!
  • Trafalgar Square Christmas Market Enjoy small wooden chalets with handcrafted gifts, set beneath London’s iconic Christmas tree. It’s like stepping into a Christmas card.
  • Greenwich Christmas Market This market is a mix of history and holiday spirit. Wander through artsy stalls, pick up handmade gifts, and enjoy the lovely Greenwich atmosphere.
  • Kingston Christmas Market A little outside the city, but worth the trip. Think fairy lights, wooden huts, and a traditional festive vibe that feels like a trip to a European Christmas village.
  • Borough Market Not a traditional Christmas market, but Borough Market is a foodie’s dream at any time of year - especially during Christmas, it’s full of seasonal goodies like mince pies, mulled wine, and artisanal treats.

Christmas shopping in London

Shopaholic citizens, London in December is a true paradise for you. The city’s streets are lined with festive lights, magical window displays, and shops full of goodies for everyone on your gift list. Here’s a guide to the top Christmas shopping streets in London:

  1. Oxford Street The big one! With over 300 shops, Oxford Street is your one-stop spot for high-street brands and luxury goodies. During Christmas, the lights are dazzling, and the shop windows are pure festive magic.
  2. Mayfair For a touch of luxury, Mayfair is where it’s at. Pop into designer boutiques like Burberry, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, and treat yourself to something special. Plus, the streets are dressed up with some of the classiest Christmas decorations in town.
  3. Carnaby Street If you're after quirky and unique finds, Carnaby is your go-to. With its independent boutiques and lively atmosphere, you’ll find gifts here that stand out from the crowd. The Carnaby Christmas lights are some of the most creative in London, too.
  4. Covent Garden and Seven Dials Covent Garden is Christmas central—think giant baubles, festive lights, and some of the best boutiques in London. For something a bit more tucked away, wander into Seven Dials for more indie shops and a charming, Christmassy village vibe.
  5. Battersea Power Station The newly revamped Battersea Power Station is quickly becoming a top spot for Christmas shopping. With a mix of high-end and independent stores, plus stunning views of the Thames, it’s perfect for picking up stylish gifts.
  6. Chelsea (King’s Road) King’s Road in Chelsea brings all the festive feels with elegant window displays and high-end fashion. It’s the perfect place to pick up something glamorous for the fashion lover in your life, all while enjoying the sophisticated Christmas decorations.
  7. Westfield London When you need to get everything in one go, Westfield is the place. This massive shopping centre in Shepherd’s Bush has all the brands you need under one (massively festive) roof, with decorations and treats that make it a Christmas destination on its own.

Whether you're going big on Oxford Street or keeping it classy in Mayfair, London’s Christmas shopping scene is second to none. And when you’re all shopped out, pop back to citizenM to relax in one of our lounges with a festive drink in hand. Happy shopping, citizens!

people crowd around a bar in London with golden lighting

London's best restaurants during Christmas

Christmas in London wouldn’t be complete without a good festive feast! For traditional vibes and roast dinners, try The Savoy Grill—classic and classy. If you want something a little more modern, Duck & Waffle serves up stunning views along with festive dishes. Hawksmoor is perfect for those in search of the best steak and a great Christmas menu. Fancy something with a twist? Head to Dishoom for an Indian take on Christmas—think spicy sausage naan rolls and mince pies with a kick. For a cosier atmosphere, Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden offers a seasonal menu with a garden feel.

citizenM London Bankside hotel living room with designer Vitra furniture and a fireplace

where to stay around Christmas time

After soaking up all the Christmas magic London has to offer—whether you’re ice skating at Somerset House, strolling through Winter Wonderland, or browsing the festive markets—you’ll want a cosy, stylish place to unwind. That’s where citizenM comes in. With locations in Bankside, Shoreditch, and Tower of London, we´re one of the best hotels to stay in London. Plus, our lounges are always ready for you to kick back with a cheeky cocktail or a hot cocoa. Christmas fanatics, stay with us and we´ll make your London Christmas trip even more magical - promise.

have a merry stay with us