The ultimate guide to visiting London in December

There’s something truly magical about London in December. The city transforms into a festive wonderland, packed with twinkling lights and lively holiday markets. Glide across seasonal ice rinks in front of iconic landmarks like Somerset House or embrace the festive chaos of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.

Wander down Oxford Street and through Covent Garden, where dazzling displays light up the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods. Or enjoy timeless holiday performances like "The Nutcracker" or "A Christmas Carol" at London’s top theatres, helping bring the season to life. This is your guide to the best things to do in London in December.

Why go to London in December?

London in December is filled with festive markets

The city’s countless Christmas markets are one of the highlights of visiting London in December, filling every corner of the capital with festive cheer. The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers riverside views with mulled wine, gourmet street food, and unique gifts from local vendors. Covent Garden dazzles with twinkling lights, street performers, and festive treats. Meanwhile, Greenwich’s Christmas Market offers a cozy, historic vibe with wooden chalets selling handcrafted goods, gourmet chocolates, and spiced cider in a charming setting.

The city is lit up for the holidays

While there are plenty of Instagrammable places in London year-round, the city is extra photogenic during the holiday season. In December, neighborhoods across the capital are illuminated with glittering lights, giant Christmas trees, and festive window displays. It’s the perfect time for cozy evening walks and capturing holiday magic on camera.

London's Christmas concerts are magical in December

If you’re a lover of the arts, London in December is a great time to enjoy the city’s rich musical traditions in a festive setting. Every year, St. Paul’s Cathedral hosts "Carols by Candlelight," filling its majestic space with stunning choral performances. Westminster Abbey also offers the iconic "Carols from the Abbey" in its awe-inspiring Gothic setting. For a truly special experience, don’t miss Royal Albert Hall’s "Christmas Spectacular," a dazzling show with world-class orchestras, choirs, and light displays.

There are plenty of cozy pubs to escape the cold

When you’re ready to escape the winter chill outside, London has no shortage of cozy pubs to duck into. Warm up by the fire with a pint, mulled wine, or a hot toddy, or dig into a hearty meal like a Sunday roast or steak and ale pie. Iconic pubs like The Churchill Arms in Notting Hill and The George Inn in Southwark are known for their festive holiday decor.

What’s the weather like in London in December?

London weather in December is cold and often drizzly, with a good chance of cloud cover most days. Snow might make a rare appearance, but it’s more likely to be rainy and grey. However, the festive holiday lights and cozy atmosphere still make it a magical time to visit.

• Average day temperature: 46 F (8 C)
• Average night temperature: 37 F (3 C)
• Average days of rain: 17 days
• Average days of sun: 3-4 days

Top things to do in London in December

1. Enjoy festive fun at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest Christmas market and one of the best places to soak up the festive spirit. This annual event transforms the park with sparkling lights, seasonal food stalls, and endless winter activities. You can glide across the iconic ice rink, shop for Christmas gifts at the many wooden chalets, and sip mulled wine or German beers at the Bavarian Village. There’s also plenty of exciting rides and rollercoasters, as well as a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning city views. A day out at Winter Wonderland is the ultimate family-friendly activity in London during the holiday season.

Address

Louisa Duckworth Walk, London W1K 7AN

Opening hours

Open daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

2. Explore London's spectacular Christmas light displays

What is London like in December? It’s a Christmas card come to life. After dark, the city glows with festive lights, transforming the streets into a magical winter scene. Iconic spots like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are lit up with dazzling displays and oversized decorations. From strolling through Carnaby Street’s themed lights to watching the giant Christmas tree sparkle in Trafalgar Square, there’s no better time to take a stroll around London at night.

Opening hours

Lights are typically illuminated from mid-November to early January.

3. Celebrate the holiday season at London’s theatres

December is a fantastic time in London for theater lovers, with the city’s top venues putting on many classic holiday shows. You can enjoy festive productions including "The Nutcracker" at Royal Albert Hall, "A Christmas Carol" at The Old Vic, and "The Snowman" at the Peacock Theatre. Christmas pantomimes are another beloved holiday tradition in London, offering fun, family-friendly performances filled with plenty of slapstick humour and audience participation.

Opening hours

Festive shows typically run from late November to early January.

4. Glide across London's holiday ice rinks

One of the best things to do in London in December is ice skating beneath some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Glide across the ice at Somerset House, where the 18th-century courtyard sparkles with holiday lights and a live DJ sets the mood. In Canary Wharf, enjoy the covered outdoor rink surrounded by modern skyscrapers and festive lights. Or head to Hampton Court Palace to skate in the grounds of Henry VIII’s former royal residence.

Opening hours

Rinks are typically open from mid-November to early January.

5. Enjoy a festive tea at one of the city’s high-end hotels

A holiday-themed afternoon tea in London is a must-do in December, with many of the city's top hotels offering elegant festive experiences. Claridge’s serves seasonal treats such as mince pies and mulled wine in a stunning setting. The Ritz features Christmas-inspired pastries, gingerbread houses, and live piano music, creating a truly special holiday atmosphere.

6. Take a day trip to Windsor in winter

December is a wonderful time to escape central London and experience the holiday magic of nearby Windsor, with its colorful lights and charming streets. Explore Windsor Castle, the largest occupied royal castle in the world, while it’s beautifully decorated for Christmas. Tour the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and the castle’s grounds. Just 30 minutes from London, Windsor offers a fabulous mix of royal history, Christmas markets, and winter walks in Windsor Great Park.

7. Party on New Year's Eve like only London can

There's no better party than on New Year's Eve in London. The city overflows with lively parties and celebrations, as the annual NYE fireworks display lights up the River Thames. Thousands pack the riverbanks for a front-row seat to the spectacular show, which bursts from the London Eye at midnight. For something extra special, hop aboard a Thames River cruise to sip champagne while soaking in the breathtaking display. To keep the celebration going the next morning, check out London’s New Year’s Day Parade, stretching from Piccadilly Circus to the Strand, with over 8,000 performers.