Festive guide from The Lodge Hotel London, from Christmas lights and markets to Winter Wonderland and cosy nights in Putney.
Christmas in London is pure magic. Twinkling lights stretch across Regent Street, Christmas markets fill the air with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, and ice rinks appear in the city’s most beautiful spots. Spend your days soaking up the festive sights, then come back to The Lodge Hotel, a warm boutique hideaway in leafy Putney, just a few minutes’ walk from East Putney Tube Station.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in London at Christmas.
London’s Christmas lights are among the most famous in the world. Walk from Regent Street and Oxford Street through Carnaby Street to Covent Garden to see the city at its most festive, and don’t miss the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, a gift from Norway each year.
Browse handmade gifts, festive treats and mulled wine at London’s Christmas markets. Southbank Centre’s winter market sits right by the river, and the Christmas market in Leicester Square is ideal before a West End show.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is one of London’s biggest festive events, with fairground rides, an ice rink, circus shows and plenty of food and drink stalls. Book ahead, especially for weekends.
Ice skating is a London Christmas tradition. Seasonal rinks usually open at landmark venues around the city, making it one of the most memorable things to do in London at Christmas.
The illuminated trail at Kew Gardens transforms the gardens after dark with light installations and festive music. It’s a short trip from Putney and a lovely evening out for couples and families.
From West End musicals to traditional pantomimes, a festive show is a must. Combine it with dinner in Covent Garden or around Leicester Square for a classic London Christmas evening.
London’s landmarks look even more magical in December. Take in the views from the London Eye, see Buckingham Palace, or attend a carol service at one of the city’s historic churches.
For more ideas all year round, see our guide to things to do in London.
You don’t have to go into central London to feel festive. Putney’s riverside pubs and restaurants are cosy spots on a winter evening, and Richmond Park and Putney Heath are perfect for a crisp walk during Christmas week. The shops on the King’s Road in Chelsea and around Wimbledon Village are great for Christmas gifts.
Explore more in our guides to things to do in Putney, Fulham and Wimbledon.
After a busy day of Christmas shopping and sightseeing, take a break from the crowds in our restaurant and bar. Whether it’s a relaxed festive lunch, drinks with friends or a warming dinner on a cold winter’s evening, it’s the perfect place to toast the season.
Planning a work Christmas party or festive get-together? Our meeting and event spaces are ideal for Christmas parties and celebrations in Putney, from small team dinners to larger gatherings. Get in touch with our events team to plan your perfect festive occasion.
Planning a Christmas break in London? Book direct on our website for our best rates on festive stays in Putney. Every offer includes free high-speed Wi-Fi and parking, so you can relax and enjoy the season. Keep an eye on our offers page for our latest Christmas deals.
1. What is there to do in London at Christmas?
Popular festive activities include seeing the Christmas lights on Regent Street and Oxford Street, visiting Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, browsing Christmas markets, ice skating, Christmas at Kew and seeing a West End show or pantomime.
2. When are the Christmas lights switched on in London?
London’s main Christmas lights are usually switched on in early to mid November and stay up until early January, so late November and December are the best times to see them.
3. Where are the best Christmas markets in London?
Some of the most popular are Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the Southbank Centre winter market and the Leicester Square Christmas market. Covent Garden is also beautifully decorated for the season.
4. Does the Tube run on Christmas Day?
No. London Underground and most TfL services don’t run on Christmas Day, and services are reduced on Boxing Day. Plan to stay local on Christmas Day, or book a taxi in advance.
5. Is Putney a good place to stay for Christmas in London?
Yes. Putney is a quieter, leafy riverside area with cosy pubs and restaurants, and it has direct Tube and rail links into central London. It’s often better value than staying in the city centre during the busy festive season.
