7 Best Things To Do In London This Christmas

These include: 

Winter Wonderland  

 When: 18th of November 2022 until the 2nd of January 2023 

Wondering what to do in London at Christmas? Winter Wonderland is one of the capital’s top festive events, welcoming over three million visitors annually. Set in Hyde Park, this extravaganza features all sorts of attractions, from fun fairground rides to a Magical Ice Kingdom – just about everything you need to get into the Christmas spirit.  

There’s something for all ages here, whether that’s skating on the ice rink or exploring Santaland. Expect great food and drink too, from mulled wine and mince pies to hotdogs and crêpes.  

Book your Winter Wonderland tickets here.  

Winter Warmer Festival at Covent Garden  

When: 8th – 20th of November 2022 

During the winter months, Covent Garden transforms into a festive wonderland. Its Winter Warmer Festival makes the season even more special – a two-week mulled wine event with all kinds of delicious beverages.  

This year, visitors can treat themselves to over 25 varieties of mulled wine, as well as hot apple cider, spiced punch, mocktails and tasty food. This is a brilliant event if you’re looking for something to do with friends during the run-up to Christmas.  

Entry into Covent Garden’s Winter Warmer Festival is completely free.  

Christmas at Kew  

When: 16th of November 2022 until the 8th of January 2023 

Immerse yourself in the magic of London’s Kew Gardens, home of the Christmas at Kew event. This attraction features a spectacular light trail, where the gardens are decorated with lakeside reflections, tunnels of light, and dazzling colours. 2022 marks ten years since the first Christmas at Kew, and there will be brand-new and exciting installations to mark the occasion. During your visit, tuck into warming treats from a range of independent street vendors, including hot chocolate and mulled wine.  

This is the ideal event if you’re searching for Christmas activities in London for families. Find out more about Christmas at Kew ticket prices here.  

Admire London’s Christmas lights  

There’s no better way to celebrate the festive period than by checking out London’s Christmas lights. Dotted all over the city, these illuminations are a sight to behold. And the best part? They’re pretty much all free to visit. Here are our top spots to see the lights. 

Oxford Street  

When it comes to Christmas lights, nowhere does it quite like Oxford Street. This year, the display will consist of 5,000 dangling stars, with a focus on sustainability. The switch-on will take place on the 2nd of November.  

Marylebone Village  

London’s Marylebone Village is a charming area boasting stylish boutiques, modern restaurants, and amazing Christmas lights! This year, the festive light switch-on will take place on the 10th of November, when you can also enjoy a huge range of discounts at the village’s eateries.   

Carnaby Street  

Carnaby Street’s annual Christmas lights spectacle is not to be missed. This year, the installation is named ‘Carnaby Celebrates’, featuring various installations to mark 25 years of the area’s festive lights. The switch-on will take place on the 3rd of November.  

Ice skating at the Queen’s House ice rink   

When: 17th of November 2022 until the 8th of January 2023  

Kickstart the festivities with an evening of ice skating at the Queen’s House, Greenwich. Each year, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites visitors to its unique open-air ice rink, offering beautiful views of Greenwich Park and Canary Wharf. Once you’ve had fun on the ice, head to Greenwich Christmas Market to pick up some festive goodies.   

Book a festive meal  

Christmastime is all about good food, and where better to indulge than at one of London’s restaurants? Below, we’ve rounded up our top festive restaurants for great food, Instagrammable backdrops and a brilliant atmosphere.  

Coppa Club  

Enjoy a lovely festive meal at Coppa Club, where you can dine in one of the restaurant’s cosy igloo pods. Complete with glistening lights and snug blankets, these pods offer stunning views across the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and The Shard. The perfect Christmas treat!  

The Ivy Chelsea Garden  

Boasting glitzy Yuletide decorations, The Ivy Chelsea Garden is the place for Instagram-worthy photos. Their festive set menu is equally pleasing, featuring mouth-watering dishes such as salmon, shepherd’s pie, and butternut squash.  

ULI 

Nestled in the picturesque Notting Hill neighbourhood, ULI is a must-visit dinner spot. Sit back and relax on the restaurant’s beautifully decorated heated terrace and tuck into a selection of Asian cuisine.   

Christmas shopping  

Find the perfect presents for your loved ones with an afternoon of Christmas shopping in London. The capital city isn’t short of amazing places to shop, from world-famous department stores to independent retailers. Some of our favourite spots include:  

Put your feet up in one of the comfortable bedrooms and enjoy a well-earned tipple in the onsite bar. Head to the gym or spend a chilled-out afternoon in the luxury Rena Spa and feel your troubles melt away. Whatever you have planned this Christmas, our NYX Hotel will help you celebrate in style.