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On Christmas Day, London is there with a subtle magic, a cool atmosphere, lights, and traditions that seem never to fade. Some of the most beloved things to do in London on Christmas Day include riverside walks, lovely lunches, and early morning events which energise the city. From the allure of Covent Garden to the tranquillity of Hyde Park, the capital provides times of joy, meditation, and loveliness. The city is all set to reveal the warm and hospitable side that makes the celebration unforgettable, whether you are attracted by the ancient churches, scenic cruises, or just soaking in the atmosphere.
Top 10 Things To Do In London On Christmas Day
Discover unique and memorable things to do in London on Christmas Day, from riverside walks to scenic Thames cruises and festive church visits.
1. Walk Along The South Bank
Photo: Eugenia Remark / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you walk along the South Bank in London on Christmas Day, you will find the place very calm and atmospheric. New Carols will be sung by the local people. This is much more visible in the early morning or in the late afternoon. Start at Westminster Bridge and walk eastwards along the river, going past the London Eye, Royal Festival Hall, and the National Theatre. The riverside path is almost always decorated with bright lights, and it also offers magnificent views across the river to Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard.
Highlights: London Eye, St. Paul’s views, festive lights
Location: South Bank, London SE1, UK
2. Attend Christmas Day Service At Westminster Abbey
Photo: Dominika Gregušová / Pexels
Westminster Abbey hosts the Christmas Day Eucharist Service at 10:30 am, offering a historic and spiritual way to celebrate. Attending this service is more than a religious act—it’s a powerful experience filled with choral music, soft lighting, and centuries of royal history. The service includes traditional carols, Bible readings, and a Christmas sermon delivered by the Dean of Westminster. Spending Christmas morning here provides a moment of reflection and peace within one of London’s most beautiful and iconic buildings, making it a truly meaningful way to begin the day.
Highlights: Choral music, historic setting
Location: 20 Deans Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK
3. Watch The Peter Pan Cup In Hyde Park
Photo: Gustavo Vizart / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Peter Pan Cup is a cherished London tradition that has been held since 1864. Every Christmas morning at 9 am, members of the Serpentine Swimming Club dive into the freezing Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park for a 100-yard race. Though only members can participate, spectators gather to cheer them on—many swimmers even wear festive costumes. Named after Peter Pan by author J.M. Barrie in 1904, the event is one of the most iconic things to see in London on Christmas Day. For the best view, arrive by 8:30 am near the Serpentine Café.
Highlights: Christmas swim tradition, spectator-friendly
Location: Serpentine Lake, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH, UK
4. Take A Christmas Day River Cruise
Photo: B Balaji / Wikimedia Commons
On Christmas Day, a Thames river cruise is indeed a very special way to take a leisurely tour around London and its landmarks, surrounded by festive peace. These companies operate sightseeing or lunch cruises with several departures on the same day at noon. These cruises pass by places of interest such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard, thus guests have the choice of panoramic views from the heated cabins or open decks. Some also give you access to the drink bar with typical beverages like mulled wine; others bring live commentary or even a multi-course Christmas meal.
Highlights: Thames views, festive lunch
Location: Westminster Pier or Tower Pier
5. Enjoy A Festive Lunch At A Luxury Hotel
Photo: Loco Steve / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most extravagant things that you can do in London on Christmas Day is to have a traditional lunch at one of the city’s luxury hotels. The Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Savoy are the venues that come to mind when one thinks about celebrating Christmas Day in the city. They offer elaborate multi-course Christmas feasts, complete with roast turkey, Yorkshire puddings, and rich desserts like plum pudding or yule log. Quite a few of them also have live music, the prettily decorated dining rooms, and even Father Christmas visiting.
Highlights: Multi-course meal, elegant décor
Location: Varies
6. Stroll Through Covent Garden’s Christmas Displays
Photo: Christine Matthews / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most scenic things you can do is to take a walk in Covent Garden. Though shops and restaurants are closed, the piazza remains open to the public and fully decorated with festive cheer. The towering Christmas tree, oversized baubles, mistletoe chandeliers, and fairy lights create a magical atmosphere perfect for holiday photos. Besides, one more thing that makes the place even more interesting is that street performers are there even on December 25th, so the experience gets even more charming. Go early in the morning or bring the day to a close to find the square at its most tranquil.
Highlights: Giant tree, fairy lights, mistletoe
Location: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 8RF, UK
7. Attend Christmas Day Service At St Paul’s Cathedral
Photo: Nicolas Postiglioni / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Attending a Christmas Day service at St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most fulfilling experiences if you’re wondering what to do in London on Christmas Day. The 10:30 am Festal Eucharist features beautiful choral music, Bible readings, and a heartfelt sermon—all in one of London’s most iconic landmarks. With its grand dome and rich history, St Paul’s offers a deeply atmospheric setting for reflection and celebration. Doors open 45 minutes early, and seating is first-come, first-served. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. It’s a spiritually rich and memorable way to start Christmas morning in the city.
Highlights: Grand interior, choir, readings
Location: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK
8. Explore Hyde Park On Foot Or By Bike
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons
Hyde Park to spend time in is certainly one of the most serene ways to celebrate Christmas Day in London. The park is open throughout the year and offers not only vast spaces but also frost-covered paths and scenery, making it the perfect combination for a winter walk or ride. Begin at either Hyde Park Corner or Marble Arch and then walk toward Serpentine Lake, from where you could catch the very last of the Peter Pan Cup. If you would rather travel on wheels, the Santander Cycles are at your disposal there.
Highlights: Serpentine Lake, quiet paths, winter trees
Location: Hyde Park Corner, London W2 2UH
9. Join A Guided Christmas Day Walking Tour
Photo: AXP Photography / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only
Joining a themed walking tour for a unique and educational experience is among the most interactive things to do in London on Christmas Day. Usually, these companies, London Walks and Free Tours by Foot, provide December 25th special tours focusing on topics like the life and works of Charles Dickens, royal landmarks, or historic neighbourhoods. Thematic guided walks are a combination of storytelling, history, and sightseeing, ideal for someone who desires to visit the city while learning something. Also, it’s a great way to be with the people who have similar interests while seeing London from a new angle.
Highlights: Dickensian London, royal history, holiday stories
Location: Varies
10. Take A Christmas Day Sightseeing Bus Tour
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you prefer to stay warm while enjoying the views, a panoramic bus tour is one of the cosiest ways to experience Christmas Day in London. These open-top or glass-roof buses take you past major landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone seeking a relaxed holiday outing. With no need to walk in the cold, it’s a comfortable and hassle-free way to soak in the city’s festive charm. Sit back, stay warm, and enjoy London’s iconic sights from the comfort of your seat.
Highlights: Open-top views, major landmarks
Location: Varies
Spending Christmas Day in London is a peaceful yet festive experience filled with timeless traditions and quiet charm. From watching the Peter Pan Cup to riverside walks and indulgent Christmas lunches, the city offers unique moments on December 25th. While most places close, those that stay open reveal unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking for things to do in London on Christmas Day, book your seasonal escape today with TripXL and discover hidden holiday gems.
Cover Photo: Eugenia Remark / Pexels
