Christmas in London 2021 – Guide to top 72 Fun & Magical Christmas Highlights in London
72 Fun & Magical Christmas highlights in London 2021?
Like every other year, you are sure to find something unique, iconic and awe-inspiring activities in our metropolis this year. London comes alive almost as soon as the clocks go back and the onset of bonfire night fireworks in early November but nothing signifies the beginning of Christmas like the switching-on of Christmas Lights on London’s streets. As well, from winter pop-ups, atmospheric Christmas markets, and ice-skating to memorable theatre shows, pantos and carol singing, the jolly festivities in London are the best to experience. Make the most of the events at Christmas with these top 72 Christmas highlights in London selected by Timeless Travel Steps for you.
Planning a trip to London at Christmas?
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Experience London like never before with these Magical Christmas highlights in London
1 | The best dazzling London Christmas Lights 2021
1 | Immerse in the kaleidoscope of shimmering neon fluttering butterflies exemplifying transformation, change and hope at Carnaby Street.
2 | Don’t forget to look up when at Regent Street! You will be totally enchanted with the 300,000 lights as the angels glow across the street!
3 | Marvel at one of London’s premier shopping area at Oxford Street as it glows amidst the famous brands.
4 | When shopping in London, venture to the revered Bond Street. Experience the spectacular display of lights by some of the renowned brands. Tiffany’s, Cartier, and Mulberry are just a few of the unmissable displays that must be experienced.
5 | The magical Christmas highlights in London’s South Molton Street is also a must-see. Those blue arches of bright lights are completely captivating against the darkness of the skies.
1.1 | More glorious Christmas lights …
6 | More glorious Christmas lights awaits those who make their way to Chelsea. The Duke of York Square is wonderfully dressed in festive lights.
7 | Be dazzled by the twinkling Christmas highlights at the quaint streets of Seven Dials. Enjoy the array of shops, restaurants and bars.
8 | Christmas highlights in London is never complete without a visit to the infamous Covent Garden. Its spectacular 16.7m/55 feet Christmas tree in the centre of the piazza, all dazzled up offer a perfect photo backdrop.
9 | All throughout London, you will see Christmas trees decked in lights but there is One that you should not miss! Head to Trafalgar Square to see the magnificent Norwegian spruce in the centre of the Square. This 25m/82ft is decorated in Norwegian splendour of vertical strings of lights.
10 | For an absolute magical Christmas highlights in London of twinkling lights, stroll along the Thames River, the South Bank in London. The splendid London Eye and the festive vibes are unmissable experiences in this area, for sure.
11 | Head a little out of town to Wembley Park, home to the iconic Wembley Stadium. The annual Winterfest at Wembley Park showcases light and art installations across the area.
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2 | Experience Christmas highlights in London at London’s popular attractions
In addition to the stunning Christmas lights around the City of London, there are also venues and activities across the metropolis and nearby that are iconic, and magical at this festive time. The following are highly recommended and are totally unmissable events, activities and Christmas highlights in London to get into.
12 | The best views of London’s cityscape are afforded by The Shard, the tallest building in London. A stunning 360 degree view of London from western Europe’s highest viewing platform is an unmissable experience!
13 | Looking for something unforgettable to do in London? Get kitted out and climb over the O2!
14 | Explore one of London’s newest thrill-seeking adventure at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Step-out onto a glass walkway at 46.8m above a football pitch for breathtaking views over the City. This is one of the highly recommended Christmas highlights in London.
15 | Explore sparkly London at night! Join a Christmas lights tour aboard a London’s iconic bus and enjoy the spectacular lights.
16 | If you prefer, explore the dazzling lights destinations by bike during the the festive season.
17 | Join a guided walking tour of the City of London and enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights and the atmospheric Christmas markets.
18 | If you do not wish to walk, bike or do a bus tour, you may like to experience London’s Christmas lights in a taxi. Small group of six with pick-up and drop-off included.
2.1 | Go on a fun and festive cruise
19 | Enjoy the sights of London and get truly into the festive spirit on a Christmas lunch cruise along the River Thames.
20 | For an extraordinary experience, go on an evening cruise on River Thames and enjoy a Christmas Dinner party cruise against the twinkling lights of London cityscape.
3 | Food experiences in London at Christmas
The food scenes are an absolute Christmas highlights in London!
21 | See top sights in London and experience 8 different British foods on this small group food tour of London.
22 | Experience the international influence on British food culture in London. Coffee, croissants, dim sum, tapas, and gelato are among the food you get to experience in this unique Eat like a Londoner tour.
23 | Join a secret culinary guided tour of the best Indian food restaurants in London’s famous Brick Lane. From traditional savouries, fluffy naan, sizzlers to paan (if you dare!) along with stories of the dishes history.
24 | Visit the historic Chinatown next to theatreland and click-away some striking and vibrant photos. You may find some restaurants are open on Christmas Day.
25 | London is famous for its legendary pubs! Join a guided tour and learn, while you taste some of the best brews in the City.
26 | Seal your Christmas food and drinks experiences in London with Afternoon Tea at Westminster Abbey.
4 | Highly recommended activities for fun family Christmas in London
27 | Visit a castle that is fit for a queen! Windsor Castle has all the magnificent festive decorations for an unmissable visit. Enjoy a train ride through the countryside from London for timeless memories.
28 | Enjoy a remarkable visit to Hogwarts in the Snow. The Warner Bros Studio Tour – The making of Harry Potter is located a short distance from London and is a seamless journey with return transportation included in this activity (Nov 12 2021 to Jan 16 2022)
29 | A perfect winter treat awaits visitors to the Tower of London during this special season. Festive decorations and illuminated animals across the mighty fortress makes this a magical experience for all the family.
30 | Head to a Christmas Concert at the Painted Hall. Enjoy fun evening with all the family at the Old Royal Naval College and experience Charles Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” come to life. Featuring original songs and music amidst the iconic backdrop of the Painted Hall. Dec 3, 2021 to Dec 23, 2021
31 | London parks are some of the prettiest in the world. Stroll through London’s Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, St James Park and experience moments away from the hustle and bustle of the city during Christmas.
32 | Take the kids for a fully festive fun at the London Transport Museum. A 3D sleigh, Santa’s hideaway garden, a festive trail and so much more on offer for all the family. From Dec 4, 2021 to Dec 23, 2021
33 | Kids will absolutely love a day at UK’s exclusive Peppa Pig World. The remarkable Peppa Pig World is located in an outstanding 140 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland and home to fun rides, attractions and the Only designated Peppa Pig World shop in the world! Located at Poulton’s Park, a short drive from London. With return transportation, a trip here with the family is a bliss.
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5 | Highlights of Christmas Markets in London
34 | Wander around at London’s biggest and most popular Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Immerse in the festive food, drinks and the extraordinary Christmas vibes here. Entry is free but the fun rides, ice-skating and other activities may incur a charge. From November 19, 2021 through to January 3, 2022 | Generally 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM | Must pre-book.
35 | Pop in at Leicester Square Christmas market to pay Santa a visit and to tuck into food or drink. There is a good selection of crafts that makes ideal gifts for friends and family. November 12, 2021 to January 9, 2022
36 | Experience one of the most magical attractions in London – Covent Garden at Christmas. Home to legendary Apple Market with huge silver baubles and mistletoe, magnificent Christmas tree, mulled wine and Christmas stalls. There are many ‘spot’s for photo ops that is ideal for social media. There is no where else in London that is quite like Covent Garden. It is a popular destination all year round! Christmas events are scheduled to take place from November 9, 2021 to January 3, 2022.
37 | You are sure to find the Selfridges Christmas Market on the Mews fascinating! Tucked around towards the back of the world famous department store, this Christmas market is the destination for perfect festive gifts, decorations or a great selection of street food. From hot dogs, sweet waffles to seafood and curries. From Nov 5, 2021 to Dec 23, 2021. Weekdays: 4:00 – 9:00 pm. Weekends: 12:00 – 9:00 pm. Dec 24, 2021 – 12:00 to 4:00 pm.
Southbank, London Bridge and Borough Market also gets festive …
38 | With stunning views of the exemplary Tower Bridge, Tower of London and London’s skyline, Christmas by the River returns this year at Southbank and London Bridge. Along with extended hours at Borough Market, you shall find stalls decorated with twinkly lights and tinsels, offering their daily selections as well as the festive additions. From Nov 16, 2021 to Jan 2, 2022. Sunday to Wednesday, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Thursday to Saturday, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
6 | Soak up the festive vibes at these Christmas highlights in London …
39 | Enjoy the Christmas vibes at St Martin-in-the-Fields church as you enjoy the carols and concerts here.
40 | Witness the dramatic Blessing of the Crib in Trafalgar Square, the best nativity in the City. Experience the music, carols, prayer and a real donkey. Dec 5, 2021 at 5:30 pm.
41 | Sing-a-long to carols and festive songs under the magnificent Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square. More than 40 groups perform each year for an hour each in the run-up to Christmas. This takes place in December but exact dates are not published yet.
42 | Be part of a unique experience at Trafalgar Square! Celebrate the lighting of the Norwegian Christmas Tree along with candlelight, carol singing and Christmas readings. Dec 2, 2021 at 7:30 pm. Note: This is a ticketed event.
43 | Experience the grandiose of the Royal Albert Hall and join in the carols during this festive season. Home of Christmas in London for 150 years, the Royal Albert Hall offer heartwarming traditional events of concerts, jazz and classic ballet. From Dec 2, 2021 to Dec 31, 2021. Find tickets for Christmas events.
6.1 | You might like this instead?
If you wish to experience the Royal Albert Hall but not the Christmas events, you may wish to join a small group guided tour which is great value for money.
44 | For that special warm and fuzzy Christmassy feeling, head to Battersea Carols. The Battersea Christmas Carols Concert is very special as you will be welcomed by a special guard of honour formed by the Battersea Dogs. Money raised goes towards work carried out by Battersea for dogs and cats. You could enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and purchase gifts. Takes place at St Luke’s & Christ Church, Chelsea at 7 p.m. on Dec 2, and Dec 3 2021. Ticketed event.
6.2 | More unmissable carol events …
45 | One of the best and most popular carol sing-a-along in the heart of the city is at the Barbican. Singing the most loved carols and Christmas hits during this one-day event is both fun and exhilarating. Led by Jonathan Cohen, performances last approximately 2 hours 15 minutes with 20-minute interval. December 18, 2021 Book your place in this sell out event.
46 | One of my favourite places to experience Advent is at Christopher Wren’s architectural masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral. This London landmark hosts free carol concerts throughout Advent. A great experience for everyone but you do need to get there early! From Dec 1, 2021 to Dec 31, 2021
7 | Explore some of the magnificent Christmas shopping highlights in London
Cartier London
Tiffany’s London
Fortnum & Mason London
47 | Be dazzled with some of London’s splendid departmental stores. Head to Selfridges, Liberty, Fortnum & Mason and Harrods where you can go crazy in their dedicated Christmas shop, or shop for gourmet Christmas treats and hampers.
48 | Visit London’s most famous shopping destination at West End. You will find most flagship stores on Oxford Street, Bond Street for opulence and sophistication at Regent Street.
49 | If you are looking for cool boutiques and independent designers, then head to Coal Drops Yard at Kings Cross, Carnaby and Covent Garden/Seven Dials.
50 | Shop for all your Christmas gifts under one roof! From flagship stores to best high-street names together with late night shopping up to 9 pm are there for you at Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City.
51 | Take your kids to the best and biggest toy shop in London. Hamleys, renowned as one of the finest toy shop in the world is located at Regent Street. From jigsaw puzzles to the latest gadgets over four floors, you are sure to spend time and money here.
52 | When exploring all the above mentioned shops, spend some time as well to admire and click-away the spectacular window displays. Some of these displays takes imagination to a whole new level!
8 | Watch a festive film or visit filming locations this Christmas in London
53 | Join Backyard Cinema on one of their winter specials. Venture through their Winter Garden or The Snow Kingdom.
54 | Sing along to popular musicals at The Prince Charles Cinema. One of Londoner’s favourite independent cinema, The Prince Charles is tucked away behind Leicester Square and offer tickets at reasonable prices.
55 | Enjoy a unique cinema experience – dine and watch a film at Everyman Screen at the Green in Islington, London.
56 | For a truly vivid experience in a historic cinema, head to Regent Street Cinema, “the birthplace of British cinema”.
8.1 | How about film locations walking tour?
If you want to give cinemas a miss this year, go on a walking tour of film locations instead. We recommend the following:
57 | Love Actually film locations
58 | Notting Hill Walking tour
59 | Harry Potter Filming Locations Walking tour
61 | Downton Abbey Filming locations & Highclere Castle tour – day trip
9 | Immerse in a London Christmas musical
62 | From the all time favourite Lion King to incredible The Nutcracker, or Frozen, The Musical – book ahead for a warm and festive celebration at a London musical.
10 | Ice-skating at Christmas in London
Somerset House Ice Rink, London | magical Christmas highlights in London
There is something very special about ice-skating and creating unforgettable memories amidst beautiful surroundings.
63 | The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink offer a Christmassy experience like none other amidst the magnificent backdrop of the King Henry VIII’s castle. While here, you may wish to visit the Hampton Court Castle and its immaculate gardens as well.
64 | Show off your skills and glide across the 18th century courtyard at Somerset House and immerse in truly festive vibes.
11 | Go Somewhere new for the festive season
Stonehenge – The Stone Circle
Do something different and begin a new Christmas tradition. How about venturing to the English countryside on a day trip from London during this festive season?
65 | Spend a day exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds Villages
66 | Explore Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath in a day from London
67 | Visit the renowned white cliffs at Seven Sisters and South Downs on a day trip
12 | Treat yourself to a Special Evening
68 | Visit Kew Gardens at Christmas and fall in love with their stunning winter lights trail. From starry lanterns, multicoloured neon lights, Christmas Cathedral, Waterfall of Lights and so much more with a heartstopping finale at the Palm House. Afterwards, dine in style and enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner at Kew’s Botanical restaurant. Prior booking is essential. November 17, 2021 through to January 9, 2022. 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
69 | Enjoy an unforgettable night at The Great Christmas Feast in London. An evening of storytelling, Victorian feast and stunning live music.
70 | For the ultimate in seasonal luxury dining, head to La Dame de Pic in the City, for the finest Michelin starred French food and fine wines. Headed by Anne-Sophie Pic, this restaurant offers exquisite dining experience with a view of The Tower of London
13 | Stay in London and experience the buzz of the City
London is enormous! Finding a place to stay could be a task as London’s best attractions are dotted throughout the city. In addition, it could be expensive as well during the festive season. Nevertheless, it all depends on one’s budget and what you wish to experience. Here are just a few suggestions for you to consider:
71 | For fabulous Christmas highlights in London, stay at the Copthorne Tara Hotel Kensington for a remarkable stay. Located in the heart of Kensington, this accommodation is within a few minutes walk of Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, and Royal Albert Hall. It has easy connections to London Underground to get you to places or hail a bus for that quintessential London experience. Alternatively, the London taxis are at your disposal, just ask the Concierge to get you one.
Book a stay at Copthorne Tara Hotel Kensington
72 | Alternatively, stay at one of Radisson Hotels. Radisson Hotels are great value for money and offer a wide selection for every budget, as well as for individual, couples and family travellers.
Reserve a stay at Radisson Hotels London
For more choices on accommodations in London, take a look here, my go to place for securing a booking with last minute cancellation rights, if plans change.
My thoughts …
London is a great city to experience at any time of the year but it is especially fun, magical and festive at Christmas. While there are so many things to do in London as one could imagine, the city is alive with Christmas lights, festive markets, iconic attractions, and ice skating. The music, wonders of the museums, cinemas, theatres and the fabulous array of shopping arcades are special at this time of year also. The mouth-watering international food scene is undeniably an unmissable experience in London.
My sincere wish is for this article on the top 72 Christmas highlights in London to be a valuable guide in your plans to experience London at Christmas and at any time of the year.
What do you think …
It’s your turn 🙂 What do you think? Are the suggestions on this article valuable to you in planning and experiencing a magical, fun and festive Christmas in London? Have I missed any that you would like included here? Do let me know and I shall gladly include then as Reader Recommendation.
Finally …
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That is all I have for this article on fun & festive Christmas highlights in London. Have an awesome Christmas with family and friends! Till next time.
Georgina xx
