Christmas Day in London is magical! While many places are closed, there are still plenty of exciting things to do in London on Christmas Day. London has something for everyone, from seeing the beautiful Christmas lights to enjoying a meal to volunteering to help others. Whether you want to enjoy the quiet streets or participate in a fun tradition, this guide will help you discover the best Christmas activities in London. Let’s explore the top things you can do to make your Christmas Day in London unforgettable!
1. Walk and See the Christmas Lights
One of the best things to do on Christmas Day is enjoy the stunning Christmas lights around London. The city is quiet, and the streets are empty, which makes it the perfect time to admire the lights. You can walk around Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Covent Garden, where the decorations shine even brighter without the crowds. It’s magical to see London sparkle in the peacefulness of Christmas morning.
Some areas also feature unique light displays, like a Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which adds extra charm to your Christmas Day walk. If you love Christmas decorations, this is the best time to enjoy them without the usual crowds of shoppers.
2. Watch the Peter Pan Cup in Hyde Park
The Peter Pan Cup is a fun and unique tradition in London. People participate in a cold swim at Hyde Park’s Serpentine Lake every year. This tradition started in 1864 and is still going strong today. The swim is only for club members, but anyone can watch. It’s a thrilling event, especially when you see how brave the swimmers are to jump into cold water on Christmas morning! The race is just 100 yards long, but the excitement and history make it a must-see. It starts early in the morning, so it’s a great way to kick off your Christmas Day before opening presents.
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3. Take a Walk in London’s Beautiful Parks
London has many remarkable parks; Christmas Day is an excellent time to explore them. Parks like Hyde Park, Regents Park, and St. James’s Park look beautiful in winter, with bare trees and peaceful walks. The air is crisp, and walking around the park is a great way to relax and enjoy nature. If you live nearby, it’s the perfect way to get some fresh air and clear your head after all the Christmas festivities.
You can even stroll by the river Thames, which offers a calm and peaceful view, making it ideal for a Christmas Day walk.
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4. Enjoy a Christmas Brunch at a Fancy Hotel
If cooking isn’t your thing, or you want to enjoy a luxurious meal, why not visit a hotel for a special Christmas brunch? The Royal Lancaster Hotel is famous for its grand Christmas buffet, with dishes like maple-cured bacon, sausages, eggs, and a complete Christmas feast with all the trimmings. You’ll also enjoy live music from a jazz trio while eating, making it feel like a Christmas celebration you’ll never forget. It’s the perfect way to relax without worrying about cooking or cleaning up afterward.
5. Visit Chinatown for a Non-Traditional Christmas Meal
If you want something different from the usual Christmas dinner, why not head to Chinatown? Many Chinatown restaurants stay open on Christmas Day and serve delicious Chinese food. You can enjoy a hot bowl of noodles, dim sum, or a tasty stir fry. It’s fun to enjoy a festive meal without the traditional turkey. Chinatown’s streets are also beautifully decorated for Christmas, adding to the festive atmosphere. It’s a great option if you’re not in the mood for turkey but still want to celebrate.
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6. Ice Skating at JW3
Ice skating is always a fun way to spend the day, and JW3 in West Hampstead is the only ice rink open on Christmas Day. It’s a smaller rink but perfect for beginners and families. The rink is covered, so you can skate without worrying about the weather. They even offer special helpers for kids who need a little extra support. If you’re looking for a fun and active way to enjoy Christmas, ice skating at JW3 is a great choice!
7. Volunteer and Help Others on Christmas Day
Christmas is a time for giving, and volunteering is one of the best ways to spend the day. Many charities in London need extra help on Christmas Day to support those in need, especially the homeless and elderly. You can volunteer at shelters, food banks, or community centers to help others enjoy a better Christmas. Volunteering gives you a chance to impact people’s lives positively and brings the Christmas spirit alive meaningfully.
Some places to volunteer include Crisis at Christmas, St Mungo’s, or Age UK. It’s an excellent way to spend your day and make a difference.
8. Visit the Moco Museum for Contemporary Art
The Moco Museum is a must-see on Christmas Day for those who enjoy art. This new gallery in Marble Arch features modern and contemporary art from famous artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Damien Hirst. The museum’s collection also includes cool art like NFTs and interactive exhibits. It’s a fun and creative way to spend Christmas Day, especially if you enjoy seeing unique art. The museum opens on Christmas Day, and tickets start at £20. It’s an excellent option for art lovers who want to explore something different.
9. Attend a Christmas Service at St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most beautiful and famous landmarks. On Christmas Day, the cathedral holds special services to celebrate the holiday. You can attend the Christmas Day Choral Eucharist, which features beautiful music and carols sung by the choir. If you’re an early bird, you can join the Midnight Mass service at 11:30 PM on Christmas Eve. The services are free, but they can get crowded, so arriving early is a good idea.
Attending a service at St. Paul’s is a peaceful way to celebrate Christmas and admire the beauty of this historical building.
10. Cycle Around the City
Though public transport isn’t available on Christmas Day, you can still get around the city by bike. London has many cycling paths, and Christmas Day is the perfect time to ride because the streets are quiet and peaceful. You can bike through parks, along the Thames, or explore the empty streets of central London. It’s a great way to enjoy the city from a different perspective and stay active simultaneously.
You can rent a bike from one of London’s bike-sharing stations and enjoy the freedom of cycling through the city.
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11. Watch a Christmas Panto at JW3
JW3 is putting on a unique Christmas panto called Goldie Frocks and the Bear Mitzvah if you love a good laugh. This fun show is a funny twist on the classic Goldilocks story with a Jewish theme. It’s a family-friendly performance and a great way to enjoy some live entertainment on Christmas Day. The panto is full of laughs, and the actors put on a great show. It’s a fun experience for kids and adults alike.
12. Take a Walk After Christmas Dinner
After a big Christmas meal, a nice walk is the perfect way to stretch your legs and settle your stomach. You can enjoy one of London’s beautiful walks along the river or the parks. Places like Hyde Park, Green Park, and Regent’s Park are all perfect for a relaxing stroll. You’ll enjoy the fresh air and the city’s peaceful Christmas state. It’s a nice way to unwind and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
13. Swim at Hampton Pool
For those who love swimming, Hampton Pool is open on Christmas Day! This heated pool is perfect for a morning dip to wake up and feel refreshed. You can even wear a Santa hat while swimming if you like! It’s a fun and active way to start Christmas Day, especially if you enjoy the water.
Book your spot in advance, as it can get busy, and don’t forget your towel!
14. Run in the Christmas Day Cracker Run
If you love running, the Christmas Day Cracker Run is a fun event near the River Thames. You can run as far as you want, with a minimum distance of 5km. Some people even run up to 50km! It’s a fun challenge, and at the end of the run, you get a medal and a goody bag filled with snacks. The event is perfect for people who want to stay active and get into the Christmas spirit.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Christmas Day in London
Christmas Day in London offers many fun activities, even though the city is quieter than usual. Whether you want to see the Christmas lights, visit a museum, or help others by volunteering, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Use this list to find the perfect way to celebrate Christmas Day in London and make it a day to remember!
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