{"id":1230,"date":"2025-11-20T17:32:16","date_gmt":"2025-11-20T17:32:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/londresguias.com\/things-to-do-in-london-at-christmas-christmas-markets-lights-and-charming-activities\/"},"modified":"2026-07-01T18:06:05","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T18:06:05","slug":"things-to-do-in-london-at-christmas-christmas-markets-lights-and-charming-activities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/londresguias.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-london-at-christmas-christmas-markets-lights-and-charming-activities\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to do in London at Christmas: Christmas markets, lights and charming activities"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

They say that London at Christmas isn\u2019t just a place to visit, it\u2019s a place to experience.<\/strong> And it\u2019s true: from mid-November onwards, the city is transformed. The streets are lit up, the shop windows are decked out like something out of a fairy tale, the markets invite you to lose yourself\u2026 and the atmosphere is pure magic.<\/p>\n\n

If you\u2019re visiting London<\/a> at this time of year, there are plenty of things you simply mustn\u2019t miss: from classics such as Winter Wonderland or the lights on Oxford Street, to less touristy but equally charming spots. As local guides<\/a>, here are our recommendations for experiencing a Christmas in London that you\u2019ll remember for the rest of your life.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

The quick answer to the question of what to see in London at Christmas is\u2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

At Christmas, you can enjoy markets such as Winter Wonderland, Christmas lights on Oxford Street and in Covent Garden, ice rinks, Christmas shows and special night-time tours in London.<\/p>\n\n

There are also concerts, giant trees and decorations in neighbourhoods such as Mayfair, Southbank and Greenwich.<\/p>\n\n

\"Skating<\/a><\/figure>\n\n

Magical ways to enjoy Christmas in London \n<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

1. Visit the best Christmas markets \n<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park)<\/strong>The most famous one. Attractions, an ice rink, food stalls, handmade gifts\u2026 and free entry (with registration).<\/p>\n\n

Southbank Winter Festival<\/strong>Overlooking the Thames, with a more relaxed and bohemian atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n

Leicester Square Christmas Market<\/strong>Small, central and perfect if you\u2019re out and about in the West End.<\/p>\n\n

Local tip: Some markets look even more beautiful in the late afternoon and evening, when the lights are switched on.<\/em><\/p>\n\n

2. Explore the most spectacular Christmas lights<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Oxford Street<\/strong> and Regent Street<\/strong> feature iconic decorations every year. Ideal for night-time photos. Carnaby Street<\/strong>: pure creativity, with a different theme every Christmas. Covent Garden<\/strong>: lights, a giant tree, hanging red baubles and a musical atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n

Mayfair and New Bond Street<\/strong>, where you can discover the most luxurious and elaborately decorated shop fronts in all of London.<\/p>\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Take a guided night-time tour and immerse yourself in the history, legends and the festive spirit illuminated by the lights.<\/em><\/p>\n\n

3. Go ice skating in a unique setting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n