The best family Christmas events in London
Here are the best Christmas events and attractions for you and the whole family to explore in London.
Last updated: 14th Nov 2024
Originally published: 10th Nov 2022
London is a city that has an overwhelming amount of things to do and at Christmas time it can he hard to decide where to take the family. Look no further than this list as we take you through the best events and attractions in the city over the Christmas period this year. From ice skating to the theatre and attractions that are putting on Christmas specials. Check out our list below of the best family Christmas events in London.
When: Wednesday 4th December 2024 - Sunday 5th January 2025
Where: Leicester Square Theatre, London
You may remember that Stick Man was adapted from a book and became the BBC's Christmas animation short a few years ago. Now it has been adapted for the stage too and at Leicester Square Theatre you can follow the Stick Man as he goes on a morning jog that he won't forget in a hurry.
Find tickets for Stick Man - here
Image credit: London Theatre
When: Saturday 23rd November 2024 - Saturday 4th January 2025
Where: Peacock Theatre, London
One of the most beautiful short films that is shown on TV every year, The Snowman captures the magic of Christmas, helped by the memorable score that comes alongside it. A heart-warming story, you can experience it on the stage this Christmas period and see that magic in a whole new way.
Find tickets for The Snowman - here
Christmas at Kew
Image credit: Kew Gardens
When: Thursday 14th November 2024 - Sunday 5th January 2025
Where: Kew Gardens, London
Kew Gardens has a habit of making the festive period feel truly special. The grounds feature a stunning light show from November to January which makes the whole area look completely different. Enjoy a relaxing walk around and enjoy the various street food traders you can find too for some festive treats.
Hogwarts in the Snow
Image credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
When: Saturday 16th November 2024 - Sunday 19th January 2025
Where: Warner Bros Studio Tour, Watford
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is a magical place filled with artefacts from the wizarding world. You'll have seen them all in the hugely successful Harry Potter movies and during Christmas, the whole place has a Winter twist. Fan favourite sets are transformed and you get a closer look at how they made those famous snowy scenes.
London Transport Museum
Image credit: London Transport Museum
When: Saturday 23rd November 2024 - Sunday 5th January 2025
Where: London Transport Museum, London
The London Transport Museum may not be the first place on your mind when you think of Christmas. But, they go all out and included in your admission price for the museum are two activities. Santa will be visiting and you can explore his sleigh which is interactive and a great photo opportunity.
Christmas Markets
Image credit: South Bank
There are plenty of Christmas markets dotted all around London and we couldn't pick out just one. Instead, we have a few suggestions for you. Firstly there's the Southbank Market which has a wide range of cuisine and beautiful views of London, Covent Garden markets which have all the decorations that your eyes can handle and Greenwich market which is perfect for picking up those extra small gifts.
Ice Skating
Image credit: Pavel Danilyuk (Pexels)
You can find a rich selection of rinks in London such as Alexandra Palace, Somerset House and Hamton Court Palace. There are a few leisure centres with small rinks too. Ice skating may seem scary at first but even if you're clinging to the side you can still have a lot of fun.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Image credit: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
When: Thursday 21st November 2024 - Sunday 5th January 2025
Where: Hyde Park, London
Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas events in London and one that brings in plenty of tourists every year. From light displays to huge amusement park rides, you can enjoy a warm drink and plenty of Christmas-themed food too. You can either have an action-packed adventure or a nice long stroll around.
Christmas at London Zoo
Image credit: London Zoo
When: Saturday 23rd November 2024 - Sunday 5th January 2025
Where: London Zoo, London
You can meet Santa at London Zoo this year as part of their annual run of events. Across the zoo, you'll find plenty of Christmas-themed activities such as animal crafts and even marshmallow toasting. The polar post room is even in service for you to send off your letters to Santa.
When: Friday 20th December 2024 - Sunday 12th January 2025
Where: Coliseum, London
A new production for 2024, this family-friendly performance will see over one hundred dancers from the National Ballet take to the stage to perform The Nutcracker. With elegant choreography, it is set to be a completely entrancing show packed full of spectacular sets and performances.
Find tickets for Nutcracker here
For more things to do around Christmas in London, check out our articles on Boxing Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Things To Do In London.
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
