London at Christmas

December in London has a particular atmosphere — the lights on Oxford Street and Carnaby Street, the smell of mulled wine, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and a city that makes an extra effort to be welcoming. Here's how to make the most of it.

Christmas Lights

Oxford Street lights go up in mid-November and are switched on with a ceremony. Carnaby Street has consistently excellent themed light installations — often more creative than Oxford Street's. Covent Garden's large hanging Christmas tree and lights make the Piazza particularly festive. Regent Street and Bond Street both have their own lighting displays. All free to walk along.

Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park)

Running mid-November to early January, Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is one of Europe's largest Christmas markets — free to enter, with ticketed rides, ice rinks and paid food and drink throughout. The ice rink (one of the best in London) requires advance booking. Evenings have the best atmosphere; weekday evenings are less crowded than weekends.

Ice Rinks

Multiple outdoor ice rinks run November–January: Somerset House (the most atmospheric, in a Georgian courtyard), Natural History Museum (beside the museum's exterior), Hampton Court Palace, and the Tower of London moat. All require advance booking and all sell out on popular dates.

Festive Dining

Christmas menus at London restaurants run from late November. Book early — special menus often require advance reservation. Borough Market in December evenings is particularly atmospheric for food and hot drinks.

Tips

• Book ice rinks in advance — they sell out, especially on weekends in December.
• Winter Wonderland weekday evenings are significantly less crowded than weekends.
• Carnaby Street's light installations are consistently the most creative in the city.
• Restaurant Christmas menus book up fast — plan ahead if a specific restaurant matters.