December transforms London into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive cheer warming the crisp 9°C air. The city becomes a canvas of yuletide magic, inviting visitors to embrace the season’s joyous spirit.
Witness the grand lighting of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, a gift from Norway since 1947. Glide across the ice at the Natural History Museum’s enchanting rink, or wander through the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a fairy-tale world of rides, shows, and market stalls.
For a cultural treat, enjoy a candlelit concert at St Martin-in-the-Fields or revel in the slapstick tradition of British pantomime at the London Palladium. As the year draws to a close, join revellers along the Thames for London’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Immerse yourself in London’s December delights. From age-old traditions to dazzling displays, discover why this month crowns the capital as the ultimate festive destination.
Key Takeaways
- London transforms into a winter wonderland in December
- Iconic Christmas lights adorn Oxford Street and Covent Garden
- Christmas markets offer unique shopping experiences
- Special events and performances are abundant
- Average temperatures range from 5°C to 9°C
- Most attractions remain open with adjusted winter hours
- Expect busier underground transport during this festive period
Our Favourite Places in London & the UK
✈️ Heathrow Airport Transfers – Top-rated meet & greet services!
🏨 Best Hotel Deals in London – Unbeatable prices on Booking.com!
🌄 Stonehenge Private Tour – Explore Stonehenge, Bath & Cotswolds!
🕵️ Jack the Ripper Private Tour – Walk the chilling path!
🏰 Best of London VIP Tour – See London’s top icons!
📸 Private London Taxi Tour – Explore London in a classic cab!
🦉 Harry Potter Studio Tour – An unforgettable magical adventure!
Disclosure: We participate in partnerships, so we may earn commissions on purchases made via links we provide. There’s no extra cost to you, and we appreciate your support! 😀
Why London Shines in December
December in London is truly magical. The city turns into a winter wonderland, filled with festive joy. The cold weather adds to the cozy feel.
Festive Atmosphere and Decorations
The streets are filled with twinkling lights and big displays. Oxford Street and Regent Street are decked out in Christmas decorations. They make a perfect setting for holiday shopping.
The iconic Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, a gift from Norway, stands tall. It’s surrounded by carol singers, adding to the festive vibe.
Christmas Markets and Shopping
London’s Christmas markets are all over the city. They offer unique gifts and festive treats. Leicester Square market and Christmas By The River are great for holiday shopping.
I enjoy walking around the stalls, sipping mulled wine. It’s a great way to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Special Events and Performances
December in London is full of special events. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a must-see. It has fairground rides, ice skating, and festive shows.
The Royal Albert Hall hosts beautiful Christmas carol concerts. The Royal Opera House presents enchanting performances of ‘The Nutcracker’. The city’s lights create a magical evening ambiance.
Event | Location | Highlight |
---|---|---|
Winter Wonderland | Hyde Park | Festive rides and ice skating |
Christmas Carols | Royal Albert Hall | Traditional carol performances |
The Nutcracker | Royal Opera House | Classic ballet performance |
Think You Know London? Discover Even More - 🎉 Sign Up & Win £25!
✨ Get the Best of London Weekends—subscribe for a chance to win a £25 Amazon Voucher every Thursday!
Terms: Not redeemable for cash. By clicking "Subscribe", you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by clicking "unsubscribe" at the bottom of the email.
Weather and What to Pack
Visiting London in December means getting ready for different weather. The weather can be cold or freezing, with about 10 rainy days. So, a waterproof jacket and an umbrella are must-haves.
Snow is rare in London in December. Instead, you might see clear, dry days or wet and windy ones. Daylight hours are short, with just 8 hours by the end of the month.
Here’s what to pack for London in December:
- Thermal layers for warmth
- A stylish, waterproof coat
- Comfortable, waterproof boots
- Warm accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats
- A compact umbrella
Even though it’s cold outside, indoor places are warm. Wearing layers helps you stay comfortable. This way, you can enjoy London’s streets and warm places without a problem.
Must-See Attractions in December
London turns into a magical wonderland in December. It’s filled with dazzling attractions that grab everyone’s attention. I’ve checked out the city’s festive sights and made a list of top places to visit. These spots will make your winter trip unforgettable.
Christmas Lights and Decorations
The christmas lights in London are a sight to see. Places like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden have amazing displays. Walking through these areas, the twinkling lights and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland Hyde Park is a festive extravaganza you can’t miss. It has rows of market stalls, carnival games, and an ice rink. The 30ft Christmas tree and holiday attractions are amazing. It’s open from mid-November to the New Year, giving you plenty of time to enjoy.
Ice Skating Rinks
London ice skating is a favourite winter activity. I skated at Somerset House, enjoying the historic building as a backdrop. Other popular spots include Hampton Court Palace and Canary Wharf, each with its own festive vibe.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a symbol of friendship between the UK and Norway. Standing at 80 feet tall, it’s a London tradition from 1947. The grand lighting ceremony and carol singing around the tree in December are truly moving.
Attraction | Location | Key Feature |
---|---|---|
Christmas Lights | Oxford Street, Regent Street | Stunning light displays |
Winter Wonderland | Hyde Park | Market stalls, ice rink, 30ft tree |
Ice Skating | Somerset House, Hampton Court | Outdoor rinks with festive atmosphere |
Trafalgar Square Tree | Trafalgar Square | 80ft Norwegian Christmas tree |
Festive Events and Activities
London is alive with festive events and holiday activities in December. I enjoy discovering the city’s magical Christmas offerings. These include dazzling light displays and enchanting markets.
The Hogwarts in the Snow exhibition at Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a highlight. It’s perfect for Harry Potter fans, with sets turned into a winter wonderland. The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is also a must-see. It offers a quintessential London experience with fewer crowds in the cooler weather.
Theatre fans will love the many Christmas shows. I suggest seeing ‘Noises Off’ at Theatre Royal Haymarket or a traditional pantomime at the London Palladium. For a unique activity, try the Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, starting on 11 November 2024.
Fashion enthusiasts should visit the ‘REBEL: 30 Years of London Fashion’ exhibition at the Design Museum. It showcases influential British designs. Covent Garden is also worth a visit for its festive atmosphere. There, you’ll find a stunning Christmas tree with over 30,000 lights and a traditional sleigh.
- Ice skating at Somerset House or Canary Wharf
- Christmas carol services at St Paul’s Cathedral
- Charles Dickens-themed walks departing from Tower Hill tube station
- Festive window displays at Selfridges, Harrods, and Liberty
With so many festive events in London, December is filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences.
Christmas Markets and Shopping
London’s festive season is filled with Christmas markets and holiday shopping. I’ve found the city’s most magical spots for your winter getaway.
Leicester Square Christmas Market
The West End turns into a winter wonderland from 6 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. With over 25 stalls, this market has handcrafted gifts and treats. It’s the perfect place to feel the holiday spirit.
Christmas By The River
London Bridge City hosts a magical market from 12 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. With views of Tower Bridge, it’s a unique spot for holiday shopping.
South Bank Christmas Markets
The Southbank Centre Winter Market runs from 1 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. Enjoy mulled wine, artisan gifts, and festive vibes along the river.
Oxford Street and Regent Street Shopping
Oxford Street and Regent Street are at their best during the festive season. Harrods has a massive 8,000 square metre Christmas department. Fortnum & Mason is famous for special gifts. Shops close on Christmas Day, but Boxing Day is great for shopping.
Market | Opening Date | Closing Date |
---|---|---|
Leicester Square | 6 November 2024 | 5 January 2025 |
Christmas By The River | 12 November 2024 | 5 January 2025 |
Southbank Centre | 1 November 2024 | 5 January 2025 |
Dining and Nightlife in December
I love exploring London restaurants in December. The city’s dining scene is full of festive cheer and tasty menus. Maggie Jones’s on Old Court Place offers classic British dishes in a warm setting. For modern European cuisine, try Margaux on Brompton Road. Zuaya on Kensington High Street brings South American flavours to life.
Many places have special Christmas menus for the holiday season. It’s a good idea to book early, as December is busy with holiday-goers.
London’s nightlife in winter is also exciting. The comedy scene is buzzing with top comedians. I’ve enjoyed shows at The 99 Club, Camden Comedy Club, and Headliners Comedy Club. These spots have regular stand-up shows to keep you laughing on cold nights.
Venue | Type | Location | Special December Offerings |
---|---|---|---|
Maggie Jones’s | Restaurant | Old Court Place | Traditional British Christmas menu |
Margaux | Restaurant | Brompton Road | Festive European tasting menu |
Zuaya | Restaurant | Kensington High Street | South American Christmas fusion dishes |
The 99 Club | Comedy Club | Leicester Square | Christmas comedy specials |
Camden Comedy Club | Comedy Club | Camden | Winter-themed stand-up nights |
Remember, London’s nightlife in winter can be chilly. Wear warm layers after a meal and some laughs. Temperatures can drop to around 5 degrees Celsius by late December.
Visiting London in December (All you Need to Know!)
Planning a trip to London in December? I’ve got you covered with essential tips on london transportation december, london accommodation winter, and your london trip budget. Let’s dive into the details to make your festive visit unforgettable!
Transportation Tips
London’s public transport network is your best friend for getting around. The London Underground, or ‘Tube’, is handy but can get crowded, like on Saturdays. For cost-effective travel, grab an Oyster card. Keep in mind that services may be reduced on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Accommodation Advice
Book your London accommodation early in winter, as prices tend to rise closer to Christmas. For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in Covent Garden. If you’re after a festive atmosphere, South Bank is brilliant. Remember, London attracts about 15 million visitors yearly, so popular areas fill up fast!
Budgeting for Your Trip
Your London trip budget needs careful planning. December is peak season, so expect higher prices for accommodation and attractions. Balance your expenses by taking advantage of free entry to many museums and galleries. Here’s a breakdown of possible costs:
Expense | Estimated Cost (£) |
---|---|
Accommodation (per night) | 100-300 |
Daily Transport (Oyster card) | 7-15 |
Meals (per day) | 30-50 |
Attractions (per day) | 20-40 |
With these tips in mind, you’re all set for an amazing London adventure this December!
Day Trips and Excursions from London
London is great, but I love to see what’s outside the city too. There are many amazing day trips from London. They offer a new view and festive fun. Here are some of my top picks.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is just 20 miles from London. It’s a top choice for a day out. At Christmas, it’s full of lights and decorations.
The State Apartments are breathtaking. And St George’s Chapel is truly stunning. Make sure to book Windsor Castle Christmas tours early, as they’re very popular.
Bath Christmas Market
The Bath Christmas Market is a favourite of mine. It’s a bit further at 120 miles, but it’s worth it. With over 150 chalets, it’s a shopper’s dream.
The market runs from late November to mid-December. It’s set against Bath’s beautiful Georgian buildings.
Stonehenge Winter Solstice
Stonehenge for the Winter Solstice is a must-see. It’s about 90 miles from London. On the shortest day (around 21st December), you can see a magical sunrise.
It’s a unique experience you won’t forget!
Destination | Distance from London | Main Attraction |
---|---|---|
Windsor Castle | 20 miles | Christmas decorations, State Apartments |
Bath | 120 miles | Christmas Market, Georgian architecture |
Stonehenge | 90 miles | Winter Solstice sunrise |
These day trips from London are a great mix of history, festive fun, and unique experiences. They’re perfect for a break from the city and to enjoy different Christmas vibes.
Conclusion
Visiting London in December is magical. The city turns into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations everywhere. Covent Garden and Southbank are just two places that capture the holiday spirit.
The weather might be cold, but it’s worth braving. Explore famous spots like St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace. Food lovers should check out Borough Market for delicious treats.
For those who love shopping, London has plenty to offer. Stores like Prada and Cartier are lined up along the streets. Staying in different areas lets you see London’s diversity.
Page8 Hotel in Covent Garden is a good choice for those who love to explore. Booking early is key, as December is a busy time. London in December is full of unforgettable moments, from the Trafalgar Square tree to warm fish and chips.