London is a city that transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The air is filled with the sweet scent of mulled wine, the sound of festive tunes, and the twinkling lights that adorn the streets and buildings. It’s a time of year that brings people together, and what better way to do so than by visiting some of the city’s most iconic and festive locations? Whether you’re a Londoner or just visiting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit in London at Christmas time, from iconic landmarks to festive markets, and from ice skating rinks to cozy pubs.
Iconic Landmarks
London is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and during the Christmas season, they’re even more magical. Here are a few must-visit spots:
The London Eye
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. During the Christmas season, it’s adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, making it a must-visit spot. You can even enjoy a festive champagne experience while taking in the breathtaking views of the city.
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the city’s most historic landmarks, and during the holiday season, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland. The tower’s grounds are filled with festive decorations, and you can even see the famous Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters) dressed in their finest festive attire. Don’t miss the Ceremony of the Keys, a 700-year-old tradition that takes place every night.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch, and during the Christmas season, it’s a must-visit spot. The palace’s State Rooms are open to the public, and they’re decorated with stunning festive decorations. You can even see the Queen’s Christmas tree, which is decorated with ornaments and lights.
Festive Markets
Festive markets are a big part of the Christmas experience in London, and there are plenty to choose from. Here are a few of the best:
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland is one of London’s largest and most popular festive markets. Located in Hyde Park, it features over 200 stalls selling everything from festive treats to unique gifts. You can also enjoy live music, ice skating, and even a giant Ferris wheel.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
The Southbank Centre Winter Market is located on the South Bank of the River Thames and features a variety of stalls selling unique and handmade gifts. You can also enjoy festive food and drink, and live music performances. (See Also: Best Time to Visit the Portland Japanese Garden – Peak Bloom Season)
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Covent Garden is one of London’s most historic and iconic areas, and during the Christmas season, it’s transformed into a festive wonderland. You can find unique gifts, festive food and drink, and even live music performances.
Ice Skating Rinks
Ice skating is a popular winter activity, and London has plenty of outdoor and indoor rinks to choose from. Here are a few of the best:
National History Museum Ice Rink
The Natural History Museum’s ice rink is one of London’s most popular and iconic. Located in the museum’s gardens, it’s surrounded by stunning festive decorations and offers a fun and festive atmosphere.
Tate Modern Ice Rink
The Tate Modern’s ice rink is located in the museum’s Turbine Hall and offers stunning views of the River Thames. You can also enjoy festive food and drink, and live music performances.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland ice rink is one of the largest outdoor ice rinks in the UK. You can enjoy ice skating, live music performances, and even a giant Ferris wheel.
Cozy Pubs
There’s nothing like enjoying a warm and cozy pub on a cold winter’s day. Here are a few of the best:
The Spaniards Inn
The Spaniards Inn is one of London’s oldest and most historic pubs. Located in Hampstead, it’s a cozy and welcoming spot to enjoy a warm pint of mulled wine and a festive meal.
The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is another historic pub located in the City of London. It’s a cozy and welcoming spot to enjoy a festive meal and a warm pint of mulled wine. (See Also: Best Time to Visit New York City in the Fall – Peak Autumn Escapes)
Christmas Lights
London’s Christmas lights are a major attraction during the holiday season. Here are a few of the best:
Oxford Street Christmas Lights
Oxford Street is one of London’s busiest shopping streets, and during the Christmas season, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland. The street is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, making it a must-visit spot.
Regent Street Christmas Lights
Regent Street is another popular shopping street in London, and during the Christmas season, it’s transformed into a festive wonderland. The street is filled with stunning festive decorations and twinkling lights.
Carnaby Street Christmas Lights
Carnaby Street is a popular shopping street in London’s West End, and during the Christmas season, it’s transformed into a festive wonderland. The street is filled with stunning festive decorations and twinkling lights.
Summary
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve taken you on a journey through the best places to visit in London at Christmas time. From iconic landmarks to festive markets, and from ice skating rinks to cozy pubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season. Whether you’re a Londoner or just visiting, make sure to add these must-visit spots to your itinerary.
Recap
visiting London at Christmas time:
- Iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace are a must-visit.
- Festive markets like Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Covent Garden Christmas Market offer unique gifts and festive food and drink.
- Ice skating rinks like the Natural History Museum Ice Rink, Tate Modern Ice Rink, and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink offer a fun and festive atmosphere.
- Cozy pubs like The Spaniards Inn and The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem offer a warm and welcoming spot to enjoy a festive meal and a warm pint of mulled wine.
- London’s Christmas lights are a major attraction during the holiday season, with Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street being some of the best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in London at Christmas time?
The best places to visit in London at Christmas time include iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, festive markets like Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Covent Garden Christmas Market, ice skating rinks like the Natural History Museum Ice Rink, Tate Modern Ice Rink, and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, and cozy pubs like The Spaniards Inn and The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Amsterdam Tulip Fields – Peak Blooming Season)
What are the best festive markets in London?
The best festive markets in London include Winter Wonderland, Southbank Centre Winter Market, Covent Garden Christmas Market, and Leicester Square Christmas Market.
What are the best ice skating rinks in London?
The best ice skating rinks in London include the Natural History Museum Ice Rink, Tate Modern Ice Rink, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink.
What are the best cozy pubs in London?
The best cozy pubs in London include The Spaniards Inn, The Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, and The Sherlock Holmes.
What are the best Christmas lights in London?
The best Christmas lights in London include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Covent Garden.