Best things to do in London at Christmas 2026: the complete guide to festive fun

The sheer number of things to do in London at Christmas draws in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year – and tempts residents out to pastures unexplored in search of festive fun. Typically, chilled-out shopping streets and squares across the city transform into sprawling Christmas markets scented by roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, where vendors rustle up other sweet treats and crafty souls sell their wares. Some big-hitters – see Camden Market, Winter Wonderland and the South Bank – are bucket list London attractions for good reason. Big events – such as the unveiling of the Christmas window displays at Harrods and Selfridges – are annual fixtures in the city, while new openings and one-off events bring something different to the festive calendar each year.

I might be biased, but there is nowhere as sparkling, fun and cosy as London at Christmas. The city has plenty to offer year-round, but there is something uniquely magical about it when the holidays approach. The shopping streets are illuminated by Christmas lights, the theatres and cinemas add to the festive spirit with seasonal shows and events, Hyde Park gets taken over by Winter Wonderland and the best luxury hotels in London bring out the most elegant decorations. Although the British countryside is equally marvellous this time of year, there is nowhere I’d rather be.

Still, you’ll benefit from visiting off-peak once Yuletide mania truly hits the city. Otherwise, there are plenty of Christmas events in London’s leafier suburbs, from wholesome markets to ceramic workshops. For me, a perfect holiday weekend would start with a crisp morning walk in one of the most beautiful London cemeteries, Nunhead Cemetery, with a steaming hot coffee and a cookie from Nūs Nūs, before heading to central London for a shopping spree, a cosy pub lunch in one of the many wonderful pubs in the city, and ending the evening with a fabulous Christmas show – the English National Ballet's Nutcracker being at the top of my list this year. Here, we list the events and attractions the editors at Condé Nast Traveller have their eye on.

Indulge in a Christmas afternoon tea

Not all Christmas afternoon teas are made equal. While most hotels offer a version, the ones we recommend at Condé Nast Traveller range from some of the glitziest in town to affordable gems. One of the capital’s most indulgent afternoon teas doubles up as the perfect excuse to smarten up for the afternoon – and peek inside one of the world’s most iconic hotels. It’s The Ritz’s festive afternoon tea, of course. The Palm Court has been transformed into an Edwardian winter wonderland adorned with opulent red and gold trimmings, where cake stands are filled with seasonal treats up until Tuesday 5 January 2027.

The hotel's lavish Edwardian interiors are decked out in festive decorations, while guests can tuck into finger sandwiches, Christmas cakes, mince pies and freshly baked scones, accompanied by Christmas carols sung by The Ritz choir. The festive afternoon tea runs from 14 November 2026 to 5 January 2027, with prices starting at £120 per adult.

The Rubens at the Palace is marking the season with a Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea inspired by traditional British Christmas celebrations. Available from 16 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, the experience includes seasonal treats and a glass of mulled wine, with prices starting at £82 per person. Elsewhere, Rosewood London's Festive Art Afternoon Tea at the Mirror Room offers a creative take on the British tradition, while the Chancery Rosewood is serving a festive afternoon tea at Jacqueline, featuring seasonal savouries and intricate pâtisserie by executive pastry chef Marius Dufay. For something slightly more affordable, Hotel Café Royal is offering a festive afternoon tea from 5 November 2026 to 4 January 2027, starting at £85 per person. For more inspiration, see our curated guide to the best Christmas afternoon teas in London.

Head to a festive market

While the likes of Portobello Road and Borough are on everyone’s bucket lists, the large crowds they attract can multiply in the lead-up to Christmas. Winter Wonderland has become a major attraction, taking over Hyde Park between November and December, and is equally busy as families flock from across the country to seek thrills on rollercoaster rides and enjoy immersive experiences such as the Ice Bar.

The handful of Christmas markets that pop up across the capital around mid-November (see our guide to the best Christmas markets in London for the ultimate bucket list) can sway in the ‘touristy’ direction. While we’re no strangers to a riverside mulled wine along the Southbank or a mooch and munch under the mistletoe in Borough Market, the most authentic markets tend to be outside the centre of the city.

For something a little different, it's worth venturing beyond central London, where independent makers' markets offer a more relaxed alternative to the usual festive crowds. There are several markets celebrating independent makers, bakers and entertainers in London's residential neighbourhoods, just outside the hustle and bustle of the centre. These include Wimbledon Village’s Christmas in the Village celebrations, where face painters, storytellers and arts and crafts experts delight little ones while adults sip boozy hot chocolates and tuck into fare from street food stalls. Another worth visiting is the North London Makers' Market at Abney Hall in Stoke Newington, bringing together independent designers and artists selling everything from handmade ceramics and jewellery to illustrations and homewares.

Here are some of our favourite insider Christmas markets to add to the diary throughout December:

• Dates TBC: Christmas in the Village, Wimbledon Village
• 12–13 December: North London Makers' Market, Abney Hall
• 12 December: Angel Foundation Christmas Craft Fair, Walthamstow Library
• Dates TBC: Wembley Park Festive Market
• 5–6 December: Fulham Palace Christmas Fair

Admire the festive window displays

One of our favourite free things to do at Christmas in London is, quite simply, to set off on foot and soak up the festive atmosphere. London’s iconic department stores and designer flagships put on quite the show this time of year, turning their windows into glittering exhibits that stop shoppers and workers in their tracks.

Harrods never fails to put on a dazzling display and, once you’ve gazed through the glass, there’s plenty to explore inside, from its famous Christmas World to festive food and gifts. Over on Oxford Street, Selfridges is another must-see, known for its elaborate Christmas windows, while Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly traditionally transforms its famous storefront into a festive spectacle.

An amble down Bond Street, clutching a steaming hot chocolate, is another way to get in the spirit. Designer brands including Cartier, Dior and Louis Vuitton are known for transforming their storefronts into extravagant festive façades, often outdoing one another year after year.

Insider tip: Aside from the designer flagships and department stores, some of London’s most charming delis receive a festive transformation, too. The halls are well and truly decked across Ottolenghi’s London stores, while the shelves at Mayfair’s Farm Shop are overflowing with seasonal treats. See our guide to London’s best festive delis and embark on what might just be the tastiest self-guided city tour going.

Festive dining

December is the peak time of the year for the best restaurants in London. Our favourite eateries across the city deck the halls, transforming a great meal into one of the best things to do in London at Christmas. Personally, I have a slight obsession with Noble Rot on Lamb's Conduit Street, so any excuse to sneak in a lunch is welcome – and Christmas makes for a particularly good one. We asked Condé Nast Traveller's resident foodies what their favourite hideouts are for a cosy feast in the lead-up to Christmas:

“I love Dean Street Townhouse at Christmas – it's really festive, especially if you bag a seat by the fireplace. Breakfast at The Wolseley is also a festive tradition; we go for a warming breakfast of kedgeree or a full English surrounded by the decorations, and then walk up to Fortnum & Mason to see the windows and grab some Christmas essentials.” Sarah Allard, digital director

“In Notting Hill, especially this time of year, I always bounce between Wild (sister restaurant to Wild Tavern in Chelsea Green, which I equally rate) and the Walmer Castle. Both put a big effort into the Christmas cosies, but the Walmer's upstairs dining room is all fireplaces and full-bodied reds.” Tamara Southward, commerce producer

“Tucked away down an Islington side street, The Draper’s Arms is the perfect spot to gather with friends and indulge in some festive feasting. The roast here is among the best in London that I’ve found (and trust me when I say, I’ve sampled my fair share). It's served sharer-style in a gorgeous high-ceilinged dining room that feels as though you could be in someone’s, albeit rather lovely, home.” Lucy Bruton, social media manager

“For a deliciously classic lunch once Advent rolls around, you can’t beat St John. It’s your favourite chef’s favourite restaurant: order bone marrow on toast, mutton broth and ox heart for a reassuringly Henry VIII spread and let yourself be looked after by a team who never misses a step.” Sarah James, digital editor

“The Camberwell Arms is an old faithful for festive meals. It's cosy, comforting and does epic roasts – we typically take over part of the back dining room on one long table, and while away the hours with secret Santa gift giving and cocktail drinking, before ordering big sharing plates to feast on.” Olivia Morelli, digital features editor

“Indian food is a must over the festive period, and nowhere does it better than Ganapati in Peckham. The local favourite is a cosy spot that's perfect for sharing – order a bunch of dishes and divide them between friends and family. My pick is always the Tirupati aubergine and Kerala paratha." Abigail Malbon, global audience development manager

“The Spread Eagle in Hackney is my favourite festive spot, decorated head-to-toe in tinsel, Friday karaoke to scream Mariah Carey at and an unbeatable vegan roast. It's cosy, and has a great wine list.” Chloe Laws, Acting Senior Manager, Audience Development

For the ultimate festive dining experience, indulge in Christmas lunch aboard the British Pullman, a Belmond Train. Get in the spirit as you board at London Victoria, before settling into one of the beautifully restored Art Deco carriages for a festive feast. The train is transformed for the occasion, with Christmas decorations and a multi-course dining experience featuring seasonal favourites, all while the British countryside rolls past the windows.

Meanwhile, it’s fondue season at The Montague on the Gardens. Step into the chalet-style Winter Lodge, complete with a cosy corner fireplace and shimmering Christmas tree for a lip-smacking two-hour experience. The fondue comes with potatoes, pickles, and – most importantly – a hefty amount of bread. The fondue itself is made from Swiss cheeses like Emmental and Vacherin, and tastes incredibly authentic. The friendly, warm service is the cherry (or cheese) on top.

For more dining inspiration in London, see our complete guides:

• The new London restaurants to try
• The best restaurants in East London
• The best restaurants in Covent Garden
• The best Italian restaurants in London
• The best Chinese restaurants in London
• The best Indian restaurants in London

See the hotel Christmas trees

In general, I think people should enjoy luxury hotels more. There's a certain aura surrounding London's grandest hotels, but the reality is you don't have to spend the night to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere of a grand hotel – sipping a coffee on a plush sofa, surrounded by marble interiors, attentive staff and the sound of a piano, could do wonders for one's mood. This is particularly true at Christmas.

Throughout November and December, London's hotels usher in the festive season with spectacular light switch-ons, glitzy parties and, of course, extraordinary Christmas trees, and it would be a real shame not to enjoy the spectacle. Londoners have witnessed the rise of the designer Christmas tree in recent years, with the designer collaborations often making as much of a statement as the trees themselves. Here, we highlight the prettiest Christmas trees in London that are well worth popping into a fabulous hotel lobby to admire – sticking around for Champagne is optional, but a delightful experience.

The Ned

The Ned is bringing back one of London's most spectacular hotel Christmas trees for 2026, taking festive decorations to another level in its magnificent former banking hall. Last year's 6.7-metre-tall tree was created in collaboration with The Macallan, with red velvet bows and copper baubles inspired by the Scottish whisky maker's heritage. While this year's design is still under wraps, visitors can expect plenty of festive cheer, with live music, seasonal dining and Christmas carols performed by Gareth Malone and his choir on selected Sundays in December.

45 Park Lane

If I had to choose my favourite hotel for a Christmas party, it would, without a doubt, be 45 Park Lane. This Dorchester Collection hotel’s festive soiree has become the talk of the town over the years, and for good reason – the food is always delicious, the atmosphere is warm and festive and the entertainment is on point. For Christmas 2026, 45 Park Lane has commissioned British contemporary artist Nicky Hirst to create its annual Artist’s Tree. Titled 'Silent Tinsel', the installation takes inspiration from traditional Victorian Christmas trees, with golden letters and room-key tassel decorations that form playful seasonal anagrams. The tree will be unveiled on 19 November, while the hotel will also offer festive dining at CUT and seasonal cocktails at BAR 45.

Claridge’s

One of London's most eagerly anticipated Christmas tree unveilings comes courtesy of Claridge's, which has been inviting some of the world's most celebrated designers to reimagine its festive centrepiece since 2009. Last year's spectacular 16-foot tree was designed by Burberry's chief creative officer, Daniel Lee, and adorned with hundreds of bows made from surplus Burberry fabrics, alongside wild foliage, thistles and hand-blown glass baubles. While the designer behind the 2026 installation is yet to be revealed, the hotel's magnificent Mayfair lobby is always worth a visit during the festive season.

The London Edition

The London EDITION is another hotel worth visiting during the festive season, particularly for its spectacular lobby and the glamorous Berners Tavern. Last year's Christmas tree was designed in collaboration with cookery writer Skye McAlpine, who transformed it into a whimsical, snow-dusted creation adorned with edible decorations, including gingerbread houses, sweets and chocolate. While the theme of the 2026 tree is still under wraps, the hotel is already gearing up for Christmas with seasonal cocktails and festive dining experiences.

The Goring

One of London’s most historic and quintessentially English hotels, The Goring is known for its playful approach to Christmas decorations. Last year's tree was created in partnership with British fashion designer Lulu Guinness, whose London Calling installation featured her signature red lips, scarlet ribbons and miniature London postboxes and telephone boxes. While the design of the 2026 tree is still under wraps, the family-owned Belgravia hotel is already gearing up for the festive season, with Christmas dining in its Michelin-starred Dining Room, Champagne-filled celebrations and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Art’otel London Hoxton

Art'otel London Hoxton is known for its contemporary approach to art and design, and its Christmas decorations are no exception. Last year's unconventional installation was created by acclaimed artist Shane Keeling, who transformed the traditional Christmas tree into a striking centrepiece made from shattered white porcelain toys, carefully reconstructed and interwoven with festive lights. The hotel has yet to reveal this year's artist, but we're sure the result will be just as spectacular.

The Connaught

One of the few hotel Christmas trees in London to stand outside, The Connaught has become something of a festive landmark on Mayfair's Carlos Place. Every year, the hotel commissions a celebrated contemporary artist to reimagine its Christmas tree, and last year's installation was the work of Swiss-born artist Urs Fischer. The 31-foot Nordmann fir was decorated with illuminated spheres containing AI-generated faces, inspired by Fischer’s installation People – first seen in 2022 at Gagosian in New York, with spheres filled with AI-generated faces, each illuminated from within by LED light, evoking people of all ages, races, and places sharing in collective experiences. The artist behind the 2026 tree is yet to be revealed, but it's always one of the capital's most exciting festive displays.

Take a Christmas light tour

The Condé Nast Traveller elves have pulled together the ultimate Christmas lights walking route through the capital for guaranteed glittering illuminations. See our Instagram reel below, along with step-by-step instructions.

1. Begin with the Regent Street angels and watch as they illuminate one of London’s most famous streets in all their shimmering glory.
2. From Regent Street, head through Mayfair to Bond Street, where hotels and designer flagships pull out all the stops to illuminate the city’s fanciest shopping destination.
3. Take a stroll to Fortnum & Mason’s Piccadilly store to see the famous window displays, before looping round to see the iconic Annabel’s members’ club facade.
4. Fancy maxing out the step count? Take a 35-minute walk (or hop on the Tube) away from the hustle and bustle to Sloane Square, which always gets a fabulous festive makeover.

There are plenty more Christmas Lights in London, sure to add some festive cheer to a stroll, many sticking around until the beginning of January. There’s the shooting stars above Oxford Street, the baubles and bells of Covent Garden, and the sparkling tailor's tools of Savile Row to be spotted.

Heading through the heart of the city? Keep an eye out for The Shard’s Christmas light display, which transforms the top of London's tallest building into a spectacular illuminated landmark during the festive season.

Theatre and immersive experiences

A trip to the theatre has long been a favourite festive pastime of Londoners, as West End theatres receive a sparkly makeover and a series of seasonal shows pop up in beloved fringe theatres. In recent years, various immersive experiences and trails have become increasingly popular, offering an alternative to the traditional theatre experience – ideal for restless little ones. Here are some of the shows and experiences the Condé Nast Traveller editors are most looking forward to this Christmas.

Chiswick House

For particularly family-friendly outings, head a little further out. This Christmas, Chiswick House is welcoming festive visitors for a heartwarming production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, brought to life by Quantum Theatre. Transporting audiences back to Victorian London, the show follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he encounters four ghostly apparitions on Christmas Eve, who attempt to change his ways before Christmas morning. Taking place in the Garden Pavilion on 21 and 22 December, it's a lovely way to enjoy a traditional Christmas story with the whole family.

Address: Chiswick House, Burlington Lane, Chiswick, London W4 2RP
Website: chiswickhousechristmas.com

The Paddington Bear Experience

Take the children to dance under the snow in Windsor Gardens as The Paddington Bear Experience undergoes a festive makeover from 10 November 2026 to 4 January 2027. Step into Paddington Station, where train masters serve you mince pies under the towering Christmas Tree before whipping you off to help Mrs Brown and Mrs Bird prepare for Marmalade Day. An exciting orange hunt through the Brown household and the Peruvian jungle culminates in hot chocolate and marmalade sandwiches in Windsor Gardens, where you’ll even get to meet everyone’s favourite bear. Jessica Rach

Address: The Paddington Bear Experience, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Website: paddingtonbearexperience.com

ABBA Voyage

What's more joyful than a night at ABBA Voyage? A night at ABBA Voyage during Christmastime! Winter at the ABBA Arena features a magical winter garden where guests can gather before the show to drink and dance. The new heated winter bar is a welcome space serving festive-themed cocktails, mulled wine, and cider, and there's festive-themed food on offer too. Superfans will love the additional Christmas-themed merchandise – there's definitely room on your tree for an ABBA Voyage bauble. Abigail Malbon

Address: ABBA Arena, 1 Pudding Mill Lane, London E15 2RU
Website: abbavoyage.com

The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum

There are few Christmas traditions quite as magical as a trip to see The Nutcracker. This winter, English National Ballet returns to the London Coliseum with its spectacular production of the Tchaikovsky classic, following Clara on a journey through a world of dancing snowflakes, enchanted toys and the Kingdom of Sweets. Expect beautiful costumes, elaborate sets and some of the most recognisable music in ballet. Running from 17 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, it's the perfect excuse to dress up, head into the West End and make a proper festive evening of it. Alessia Armenise

Address: London Coliseum, St Martin's Lane, London WC2N 4ES
Website: ballet.org.uk

A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic

Dickens' A Christmas Carol is practically synonymous with Christmas in London, and The Old Vic's much-loved adaptation has become something of a festive tradition in its own right. Adapted by Jack Thorne, the production brings Ebenezer Scrooge's journey from miserly old businessman to generous Christmas enthusiast to life through atmospheric staging, traditional carols and plenty of audience participation. Returning for its tenth consecutive season, from 12 November 2026 to 9 January 2027, it's a heartwarming choice for anyone who loves a good Christmas story. Alessia Armenise

Address: The Old Vic, 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB
Website: oldvictheatre.com

Hogwarts in the Snow

For Harry Potter fans, Christmas doesn't get much better than seeing Hogwarts covered in snow. From 14 November 2026 to 17 January 2027, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London receives its annual festive makeover, with Christmas trees, decorations and wintry scenes transforming some of the films' most recognisable sets. Wander through the decorated Great Hall, discover how the filmmakers created realistic snow and marvel at the magnificent Hogwarts Castle model in its winter setting. This year's experience also features a Wizard's Chess scene, adding another reason for returning visitors to make the journey just outside London. Alessia Armenise

Address: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR
Website: wbstudiotour.co.uk

Winter Palace at Hampton Court Palace

Looking for something a little different? Hampton Court Palace is getting a festive makeover this winter, with Winter Palace, a new experience bringing a touch of seasonal magic to the former royal residence. Expect mythical beasts, an enchanted ball and plenty of theatrical flourishes as visitors explore the historic rooms. Running from 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, the experience is included with standard palace admission, making it an excellent excuse to spend a winter afternoon exploring one of London's most spectacular historic buildings. Alessia Armenise

Address: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
Website: hrp.org.uk

Looking for something a little quirkier? Each year, stars of stage, screen (and miscellaneous origin) take to the stage in some of London's most storied theatres for tongue-in-cheek takes on fairytale classics. Among the pantomimes to look out for in 2026 are Cinderella at the London Palladium and another take on the same classic at Lyric Hammersmith, alongside Jack and the Beanstalk at Hackney Empire. Expect outrageous costumes, plenty of audience participation and more than a few jokes aimed squarely at the adults in the room.