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Winter in London is a magical time, filled with festive charm and endless activities. There are plenty of things to do in London in winter, from exploring glittering Christmas markets to gliding across iconic ice rinks. The city comes alive with seasonal cheer, offering cozy pubs, twinkling lights, and world-class theatre in the West End. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine along the South Bank or enjoying a cultural experience at a museum, winter transforms London into a crisp, bright wonderland. It’s the perfect season to see the city in a whole new light.
10 Things To Do In London In Winter
Discover the best things to do in London in winter, from festive markets to ice skating and cosy cultural escapes.
1. Skate At Somerset House
Photo: Jan van der Crabben / Wikimedia Commons
Skating at Somerset House is among London’s most memorable winter highlights, which takes place in the courtyard of an 18th-century neoclassical building with a breathtaking view of the Thames. The rink has been available for both day and night sessions from mid-November to mid-January, which are periods that are lit up by festive decor under the elegant architecture of the building. What makes it unique is the combination of culture and fun, a 40-foot Christmas tree decorated by Moët & Chandon, delicious food from pop-ups such as Chalet Suisse, and the music from the DJs on “Skate Lates” nights.
Average Cost: £12 – 22 / ₹1,300 – 2,400
Highlights: Neoclassical courtyard rink, DJ nights (Skate Lates), Fortnum & Mason rink-side lodge
2. Visit Winter Wonderland In Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is the biggest festive event in London, occupying more than 350 acres of rides, markets, shows, and seasonal food. It was open from mid-November to the beginning of January, and it was free to enter during off-peak hours, although it was necessary to pre-book. Inside, you will find the largest outdoor ice rink in Europe, the Magical Ice Kingdom, which is full of delicate ice sculptures and exciting rides such as the Munich Looping roller coaster. Santa Land is a perfect place for kids; on the other hand, adults will find the Bavarian Village with live music and mulled wine more appealing.
Average Cost: £5 – 15 / ₹550 – 1,650
Highlights: Ice rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, Bavarian Village, festive circus, thrill rides
3. Explore Christmas Markets Along The South Bank
Photo: Humphrey Muleba / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Southbank Centre Winter Market is one of the best things to do in London in winter, transforming the riverfront into a festive wonderland from mid-November to December. Wooden stalls line Queen’s Walk, offering hand-crafted gifts, holiday jumpers, and global street food like Dutch pancakes and bratwurst. The scent of roasted nuts and cinnamon fills the air, while fairy lights sparkle over the Thames. Sip hot spiced wine or cider as you stroll past the London Eye and enjoy live street performances. Don’t miss the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge or pop-up igloos for a cosy, private dining experience.
Average Cost: £3 – 10 / ₹330 – 1,100
Highlights: Handcrafted gifts, riverside food stalls, mulled wine chalets, festive lighting
4. Attend Christmas Carols At St. Paul’s Cathedral
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
The Winter season is one that one cannot just admire without partaking in a carol service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, which really touches one to the core. In December, the cathedral can be found resplendent with a series of free Advent and Christmas services. Such include the well-known “A Celebration of Christmas” and “Carols by Candlelight”. The wondrous acoustics of the cathedral support the high and clear voices of the choir, which is world-famous, thus creating a powerful and intimate atmosphere beneath the iconic dome.
Average Cost: £10 – 25 / ₹1,100 – 2,750
Highlights: Free choir performances, candlelit carol services, world-famous acoustics
5. Walk Through The Illuminated Kew Gardens
Christmas at Kew is probably the most splendid thing to do in London during winter, which could be the perfect indulgence in the season of lights and festive joy. The event that runs from the end of November to the beginning of January, a 2.6 km winding path, is decorated with over a million lights, light tunnels, and giant lamps that are designed to music. The most loved parts of the event are the Fire Garden’s dancing flames, the lake that serves as a projection surface for the lasers, and the stunning light show on the famous Palm House.
Average Cost: £21.50 – 28 / ₹2,365 – 3,080
Highlights: Light trail, fire garden, Palm House projections, festive food stalls
6. Cosy Up In A Historic London Pub
Photo: Oxfordian Kissuth / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for what to do in London in winter, nothing beats the comfort of a centuries-old pub. Cosy and inviting, these historic spots offer the perfect escape from the cold. The Churchill Arms dazzles with festive decorations, while The Spaniards Inn combines roaring fires with literary charm—it’s said Dickens and Keats once visited. Winter menus feature hearty dishes like lamb shank, fish pie, and warming mulled wine. These pubs aren’t just about food and drink; they’re timeless retreats. Arrive early to snag a fireside seat and soak up the true essence of a London winter.
Average Cost: £20 – 35 / ₹2,200 – 3,850
Highlights: Christmas décor, open fires, classic British winter dishes, historic settings
7. Visit London’s World-Class Museums
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
As the temperature falls, London’s free museums become the ideal indoor retreat that is not only warm but also filled with history, art, and amazing things. The British Museum contains the Rosetta Stone and ancient Egyptian mummies, while the Natural History Museum is very attractive with its huge blue whale skeleton and also with the outdoor ice rink, which is arranged for the season. The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is a place that can combine fashion, sculpture, and design under the one and only magnificent roof. Get a hot drink from the museum cafes and spend a day discovering some of the city’s most famous cultural institutions.
Average Cost: £10 – 20 / ₹1,100 – 2,200
Highlights: Free entry, warm indoor exhibits, seasonal displays, late-night openings
8. Indulge In Afternoon Tea With A Winter Twist
Photo: Suzy Hazelwood / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Going for a festive afternoon tea at one of the city’s most iconic hotels is definitely among the most luxurious things to do in London. Claridge’s, The Ritz, and The Savoy offer their winter-themed menus practically made of cranberry scones, cinnamon pastries, and spiced teas served in settings decorated most beautifully. It’s going to be like magic with the sparkling lights, the music of the season, and the impeccable service greeting you. In addition, some venues will also provide you with themed experiences such as a Nutcracker-inspired décor or carol performances by live voices.
Average Cost: £60 – 95 / ₹6,600 – 10,450
Highlights: Festive-themed pastries, hot chocolate, Nutcracker décor, elegant atmosphere
9. Watch A West End Show
Photo: Fred Romero / Wikimedia Commons
Catching a West End show during winter is an experience filled with magic, music, and festive sparkle. Theatreland glows with twinkling lights, setting the stage for classics like The Lion King, Les Misérables, and Phantom of the Opera, alongside seasonal favourites such as The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. Iconic venues like the Lyceum, Apollo Victoria, and Royal Opera House offer warmth, charm, and incredible performances. It’s best to book tickets early for popular evening shows, though weekday matinees often provide better availability and prices. A night at the theatre truly adds drama and delight to chilly London evenings.
Average Cost: £25 – 90 / ₹2,750 – 9,900
Highlights: Musicals, holiday shows like The Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol, and ornate venues
10. Take A Thames River Cruise By Night
A nighttime cruise along the Thames unveils a stunning vista of London’s icons that are radiant in winter lights. Boats with heating systems are moving smoothly past Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, and the Shard, all of which are lit up against the clear sky of night. Most cruises in December have some additional festive features like mulled wine, a holiday-themed speaker, or a carol sing-along. You can choose from rides lasting half an hour to a full dinner cruise, which has live music. Disembarking places such as Westminster Pier or Tower Pier are very well connected and also comfortable to reach.
Average Cost: £25 – 45 / ₹2,750 – 4,950
Highlights: Illuminated landmarks, heated boats, optional mulled wine and live music
London in winter glows with twinkling lights and cosy indoor escapes, blending festive cheer with cultural charm. From skating rinks and Christmas markets to historic pubs and world-class museums, the city offers endless seasonal delights. There are plenty of things to do in London in winter, making it a magical time to explore. Plan to enjoy every frosty day—book your perfect winter getaway with TripXL and experience London at its finest.
Cover Photo: JackPeasePhotography / Wikimedia Commons
