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Christmas in London reveals a certain magic that can be felt throughout December, and the tourist attractions are even more beautiful than usual. You should keep in mind, however, that many shops, restaurants, and bars will be closed on Christmas Day or have reduced hours near Christmas.
1. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
This annual event turns a huge area of Hyde Park into a world of Christmas magic. It is the largest Christmas fair in the UK. Winter Wonderland is an amusement park for both children and adults, with over 100 roller coasters and games. Santa’s Land is ideal for the little ones, they can have fun on the sleighing trails, they can visit the toy factory where the elves prepare Christmas presents, but especially they will be able to meet Santa Claus.
At this fair there are circus performances, ice and comedy shows. You will find many bars and food stalls with a rich menu.
2. Christmas markets
The many markets in London will help you find amazing things from the local businesses. You will find unique gifts, great food, and lots of seasonal drinks. All permanent markets will be arranged for Christmas and you can also try the dedicated seasonal markets, such as those at Barbican or Canary Wharf.
3. A carriage ride through Richmond Park
Enjoy mulled wine and mincemeat pie during a 90-minute horse-drawn carriage ride around Richmond Park.
4. Christmas Eve at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is open throughout the Christmas season, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day and is a great place to take a tour during this festive period. In the evening, the exterior is beautifully lit, and the interior is decorated with Christmas decorations for a festive experience.
5. Ice-skating
One of the best ways to enjoy the Christmas spirit is to choose an ice-skating session at one of the city’s ice rinks. Top attractions such as Tower of London, Natural History Museum, Canary Wharf, Winter Wonderland, and Somerset House are home to charming winter skating rinks.
6. Participate in a Christmas show
A night at the theater will warm you up and introduce you to the spirit of Christmas. Book tickets for seasonal options, such as La Soirée at Southbank Center, the traditional White Christmas or the classic Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker.
7. Enjoy seasonal sweets and mulled wine on the banks of the Thames
Borough Market is an amazing food market at any time of the year, but on Christmas is spectacular. Try some mulled wine and seasonal sweets before taking an evening walk on the banks of the Thames.
8. Afternoon tea at The Ritz
For the best afternoon tea experience in London with a festive air, you must go to The Ritz. The interior is decorated with luxurious Christmas decorations, the choir sings classic carols and mincemeat pies and various festive cakes are added to the selection of afternoon tea.
9. Shopping
Shopping in this city will not disappoint you and you will find something even for the most demanding people. Christmas shopping in London is an opportunity to visit sights, as Harrods, Selfridges and Fortnum & Mason boast dazzling Christmas posters and impressive seasonal decor both indoors and outdoors.
10. Book a meal for Christmas
Leave your Christmas lunch in the hands of professionals and go to one of the best restaurants in London. Several restaurants and pubs will open their doors on the 25th to serve the best dishes.
11. Admire Christmas trees
London knows how to decorate a Christmas tree. Go to Trafalgar Square to see the huge tree that is a gift from Norway given every year since 1947. Or, if you prefer something more stylish, go at Claridge’s.
Every year, the hotel collaborates with a notable designer to decorate the Christmas tree in the lobby. Previous models were the work of Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Lanvin and Chanel.
12. Visit Hogwarts
For fans of the Harry Potter series, Warner Brothers Studio really comes to life in the winter. In the weeks before the holidays, Christmas trees are arranged in the Great Hall, and the Gryffindor room gets a festive look.
13. Christmas lights
Take a walk on Bond Street or South Molton Street or enjoy the Christmas spirit in Covent Garden.
14. Christmas festivals
Choose warm clothes to spend a cold day at one of London’s winter festivals. Enjoy walks, games and lots of sweets and hot drinks at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Winterville in Victoria Park, or the South Bank Winter Festival.
15. Listen to live Christmas music at the Royal Albert Hall
Enjoy a sophisticated evening at the Royal Albert Hall, which offers a range of Christmas music options throughout the season.
If you want to find out about Christmas traditions, check out our article on this topic: 13 British Christmas traditions.
[Photo from Unsplash]
