London is Magical at Christmas!

#london is #magical at #christmas time, with #festivevibes lights, seasonal #markets, and unique winter activities. Here are some of the best things to do in London during the holiday season:
1. Christmas Lights and Decorations
#oxford Street, #regentstreet , and Carnaby Street: These iconic shopping streets feature dazzling light displays. Carnaby Street often has a unique theme each year, while Regent Street is known for its large-scale angel lights.
Covent Garden: The piazza transforms into a festive wonderland with a giant Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and seasonal decorations.
Kew Gardens - Christmas at Kew: A stunning light trail takes visitors through the gardens, featuring illuminated sculptures, a tunnel of lights, and festive projections.
2. #winterwonderland in #hydepark
This huge Christmas fair is one of London's most famous festive attractions. It features ice skating, circus performances, funfair rides, food stalls, and Christmas markets. Don't miss the ice sculptures and Santa Land for younger visitors.
3. #iceskating
Somerset House: Ice skating at Somerset House is a classic winter experience, with the beautiful neoclassical courtyard serving as the backdrop.
Natural History Museum: Skate with views of the iconic museum and its beautiful Christmas tree. (Note: the rink has closed permanently as of 2021, so check if it’s reintroduced elsewhere nearby.)
Hampton Court Palace: Skate outside Henry VIII’s historic palace for a regal winter experience.
4. Christmas Markets
Southbank Centre Winter Market: Enjoy riverside views and browse stalls selling handmade crafts, food, and drinks.
Leicester Square Christmas Market: This cozy market features festive stalls, a Santa’s grotto, and live entertainment.
Greenwich Christmas Market: A smaller market filled with artisan gifts, food, and Christmas cheer in a historic setting.
5. Visit Christmas Displays in Stores
Harrods: The iconic luxury store is famous for its elaborate Christmas windows and festive department displays.
Selfridges: Another high-end store, with beautiful window displays and a huge range of luxury Christmas gifts and decorations.
Fortnum & Mason: A visit to this department store is a Christmas tradition, with luxurious hampers and elegant holiday displays.
6. Watch a Christmas Show or #pantomime
London’s theatres have a wide variety of Christmas-themed shows, including classic pantomimes and more traditional performances like The Nutcracker by the Royal Ballet at the Royal Opera House.
Christmas Pantomimes: Panto is a British Christmas tradition. Check out theatres like the London Palladium or Hackney Empire for big, family-friendly productions.
7. Explore London's Christmas Trees
Trafalgar Square: The famous Christmas tree here is a gift from Norway every year, a symbol of peace between the two nations. Carolling performances often take place around the tree.
The Connaught Hotel: Every year, this Mayfair hotel has a stunning designer tree, which is often a piece of modern art.
St Pancras International Station: The station is known for its elaborate and creative Christmas trees, which change each year.
8. Festive Afternoon Tea
Many hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas-themed afternoon teas, with seasonal treats like mince pies, festive pastries, and hot mulled drinks. Some of the best places to try are:
#theritz
Claridge’s
The Savoy
9. Carols and Christmas Concerts
St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey both offer beautiful carol services and concerts throughout the Christmas season. There’s also an annual performance of Handel’s Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall.
10. Christmas at the Tower of London
During Christmas, the Tower of London often hosts special winter events, including festive decorations, history tours, and activities for families. You can experience the historical atmosphere with a festive twist.
11. The Snowman at The Peacock Theatre
This enchanting stage adaptation of the classic Christmas film The Snowman is a festive staple, perfect for families with young children.
12. Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
See the Harry Potter studios transformed for the holiday season, with sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley covered in snow and festive decorations. It's an immersive Christmas experience for Harry Potter fans.
13. Take a Christmas River Cruise
Enjoy a festive boat tour along the Thames, with views of London’s skyline all lit up for Christmas. Some cruises include dinner and live music, adding a magical touch to your evening.
14. Take a Festive Walk
Stroll through some of London’s beautiful parks or along the Thames. Hyde Park, St. James’s Park, and Greenwich Park are peaceful winter spots. You can enjoy views of the city’s landmarks decked in Christmas lights.
15. Go Christmas Shopping
Camden Market and Seven Dials are great places to pick up unique gifts, festive treats, and handmade crafts. Bond Street and Knightsbridge are ideal.