Things to do on Christmas Day in London
Whether you’re visiting from afar or looking for a unique way to celebrate Christmas in London in 2026, the city exudes magical charm on 25 December. With quieter streets, festive spirit in the air and a surprising number of things still happening, Christmas Day offers a rare opportunity to see London from a different perspective.
From cosy neighbourhood pubs and stylish hotel restaurants to culture-rich traditions such as the Peter Pan Cup race at the Serpentine in Hyde Park, there’s something to suit every type of visitor. Read on to discover the best things to do in London on Christmas Day.
Be sure to book your Christmas Day tours, cruises and experiences early - Christmas is a busy time in London, and places fill up fast!
Enjoy a Christmas Day tour in London
- Book your seat on a singalong Christmas lights tour: Marvel at dazzling light displays and see top landmarks – including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye – while singing along to Christmas classics and savouring traditional festive treats.
- Prefer a non-festive vibe? Opt for this panoramic afternoon tea bus tour: Glide through London's storied streets aboard a double-decker bus and enjoy delicious finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a glass of prosecco.
- Enjoy a festive feast with a Christmas Day lunch cruise on the River Thames: Sip on sparkling wine and savour a three-course meal while sailing past London's landmarks.
- Jingle your way down the River Thames on a circular Christmas Day sightseeing cruise: Take in the peaceful sights of the city during a one-hour journey, with the option to purchase mince pies and mulled wine.
- Celebrate Christmas Day in London on a sights and sounds tour: Hop aboard a magical luxury coach tour and be entertained by a live guide sharing stories behind the city's biggest landmarks. Book the morning departure to enjoy a visit to Westminster Abbey, where you'll experience the Christmas Day Sung Eucharist.
Check out more of the best Christmas tours in London.
Iconic Christmas Day events to enjoy in London
- Skate on Christmas Day at JW3 Ice Rink: The north-west London ice rink is one of the city's only ice skating rinks open on Christmas Day.
- Don't miss the Peter Pan Cup at the Serpentine in Hyde Park: Watch members of the swimming club compete in the historic race at 9am, held annually since 1864.
- Take a stroll through one of London's Royal Parks this Christmas: From Richmond Park to Greenwich Park, there are plenty of green spaces to enjoy a festive walk in London.
Take a Christmas Day tour from London
- Spend Christmas Day exploring Windsor, Oxford and Avebury: This festive day trip includes a visit to the Avebury Stone Circle and a traditional Christmas lunch.
- Join a guided Christmas Day tour to Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor: Make your day unforgettable with sightseeing and a classic festive meal.
- Discover Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon on Christmas Day: Enjoy a scenic escape from London with a traditional Christmas lunch.
- Experience Christmas Day in Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich: Soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch on this special day trip.
Discover more of the best day trips from London Christmas Day.
Best Christmas Day church services in London
- Step inside the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral: Attend the Christmas Day Choral Eucharist service at 11am, or opt for the Choral Evensong service at 3pm (both services are free and unticketed).
- Make tracks to Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day: The two free services include the Sung Eucharist at 10:30am and the Evensong at 3pm.
- The historic St-Martin-in-the-Fields church holds a Christmas Day service: Join locals and tourists alike at the 10:30am free service.
Bookmark our guide to the best Christmas carols services for more inspiration.
Restaurants open on Christmas Day in London
- Head to Chinatown for an alternative festive feast: Some restaurants are open as usual on 25 December, offering a delicious break from traditional Christmas fare.
- Get cosy at London's best pubs on Christmas Day: Some pubs open for a few hours around lunchtime, but most are closed or ticketed in the evening – be sure to check opening hours and book in advance.
- Head to a hotel bar for a drink on Christmas Day: Hotel bars and restaurants are often open, but it's worth checking with the venue to confirm opening times and to book a table in advance.
Find more places where to eat Christmas dinner in London and explore our food and drink guide for more festive dining ideas.
Plan ahead: Christmas Day transport in London
- Hop on a Santander Cycle on Christmas Day: Enjoy a scenic ride beneath the festive decorations lining central London’s quiet streets.
- Walk off those Christmas calories with a festive stroll: Discover London on foot and enjoy the city's beautiful architecture, street art and parks.
- Treat yourself to a traditional black cab or minicab ride: Be aware that fares are typically higher than usual on Christmas Day due to the reduced public transport service.
Be sure to check before you travel in advance, on our dedicated Christmas in London public transport guide, you can find the latest information and timetables on the TfL website.
What to do on Boxing Day in London
- Book tickets for a top West End show or musical: Many productions including long-standing classics such as The Lion King, Wicked and Matilda run on Boxing Day.
- Venture outside London on a Boxing Day day trip: Choose from a morning or afternoon tour of Stonehenge; a tour in Kent including Leeds Castle, Dover and Canterbury; or visit Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle.
- Make the most of the quieter streets with a walking tour: Discover historic royal landmarks, famous film locations and hidden corners of London.
- Head to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: Enjoy fairground rides, festive food and drink and live music performances at the seasonal attraction.
- Stroll through the illuminated gardens at Christmas at Kew: The botanical gardens are transformed with thrilling projections and light installations, with the festive trail featuring warming food and drink.
- Hit the shops for the Boxing Day bargains: There’s nothing like the buzz of the Boxing Day and January sales – check out the top shopping spots from Regent Street to Battersea Power Station.
- Take a spin on one of London's ice skating rinks: Glide from Skate at Somerset House to the historic grounds of Hampton Court Palace.
Boxing Day is a public holiday (26 December). London Overground runs a reduced service, while National Rail has a very limited service.
Find out more about transport and opening times over the festive season with this essential guide to Christmas and New Year in London, and plan your festive break with top tips for Christmas in London. Don't miss our pick of the best things to do in London in December and download the Visit London app for exclusive offers and on-the-go ideas.
Christmas Day in London FAQs
Are shops open on Christmas Day in London Oxford Street?
London stores on London Oxford Street are generally closed on Christmas Day due to legal reasons. However, you might find some smaller independent shops that are open as well as some convenience shops.
Are any London attractions open on Christmas Day?
Most attractions are closed on Christmas day but you can find some Christmas tours that operate. Make sure to check the opening hours for any bookable products and book your tours in advance so you don't miss out.
Are London theatres open on Christmas Day?
Most theatres in London are closed on Christmas day but you can still find Christmas Day show performances on the day including the English National Ballet Nutcracker at the London Coliseum and the The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre.
Is London congestion free on Christmas Day?
The Congestion Charge is suspended between Christmas Day and New Years Eve as well as the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge however there are still other charges that might apply, one of them is the LEZ (Low Emission Zone) charge which still applies on Christmas Day.
