Best Places to Celebrate Christmas and New Year in London

London transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season, with its iconic landmarks, twinkling lights, and bustling markets. From traditional Christmas festivities to grand New Year’s Eve celebrations, the city offers endless ways to enjoy this special time of year. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit, dine, and explore during Christmas and New Year’s in London.

Top Christmas Markets to Visit in London

London’s Christmas markets are full of holiday cheer, featuring artisanal goods, festive foods, and charming decor. Here are some must-visit markets:

• Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park)
  Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest holiday attraction, with an ice rink, giant Ferris wheel, circus performances, and dozens of festive market stalls. You’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to German bratwursts and mulled wine.

• Southbank Centre Winter Market
  Located along the Thames, the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market is a cozy spot for festive shopping and riverside views. The market features wooden chalets selling crafts, street food, and seasonal drinks, with fairy lights adding a magical glow.

• Covent Garden Christmas Market
  Covent Garden’s iconic market is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with a giant tree and festive lights. Browse the market stalls for unique gifts, enjoy live performances, and take in the enchanting holiday decorations.

• Leicester Square Christmas Market
  In the heart of London’s entertainment district, this market offers festive foods, handmade gifts, and family-friendly activities, including Santa’s Grotto. The cozy market stalls and holiday lights make it an ideal stop before or after a West End show.

• Greenwich Christmas Market
  Greenwich Market offers a mix of traditional and artisanal goods, with over 150 stalls selling everything from crafts to festive foods. Set against the historic backdrop of Greenwich, this market offers a charming and more relaxed atmosphere.

Best Restaurants for a Festive Meal

London’s dining scene is known for its variety and flair, and many restaurants create special holiday menus for Christmas and New Year’s. Here are some top picks for a memorable meal:

• Rules (Covent Garden)
  Established in 1798, Rules is one of London’s oldest restaurants, known for its traditional British fare. During the holiday season, the restaurant serves a festive menu featuring roast meats, seasonal sides, and classic British desserts.

• Sketch (Mayfair)
  With its whimsical decor and creative dishes, Sketch offers an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s Christmas afternoon tea and festive dinner menu make it a favorite for holiday celebrations.

• Bob Bob Ricard (Soho)
  Famous for its “press for champagne” button, Bob Bob Ricard serves luxurious comfort food with a festive twist. The art deco ambiance and holiday decor make it a perfect spot for a special Christmas meal.

• Duck & Waffle (City of London)
  Located on the 40th floor, Duck & Waffle offers stunning views of the London skyline. Their festive menu includes British-inspired dishes, and the view of London’s holiday lights makes it an extraordinary place to dine.

• The Ivy (Kensington)
  The Ivy’s festive decor and holiday menu make it a cozy, stylish choice for Christmas dining. Enjoy British classics in an elegant setting, with holiday decorations adding to the warmth of the season.

Picturesque Places to Visit During Christmas Time

London is full of iconic spots that become even more magical during the holiday season. Here are a few scenic places to explore:

• Oxford Street and Regent Street
  These famous shopping streets are known for their spectacular Christmas light displays, with thousands of lights illuminating the storefronts. Take a leisurely walk down the streets to enjoy the holiday lights and festive window displays.

• Tower Bridge and the Thames River
  Tower Bridge, decorated with lights, is stunning during the holidays. For a unique experience, take a river cruise along the Thames to see the city’s landmarks illuminated with holiday cheer.

• Kew Gardens Christmas Trail
  Kew Gardens offers an enchanting Christmas trail with light installations, a sparkling tunnel of lights, and festive displays. The gardens transform into a glowing wonderland, perfect for families and couples alike.

• Somerset House Ice Rink
  Somerset House’s outdoor ice rink, set against the grand neoclassical building, is a beloved London holiday tradition. After skating, enjoy hot chocolate or mulled wine at the nearby Fortnum’s Lodge.

• Hampstead Heath
  For a quieter, scenic winter experience, visit Hampstead Heath. The heath offers beautiful views of the city skyline, especially at sunrise or sunset, and is a peaceful escape from the holiday crowds.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in London

New Year’s Eve in London is a grand celebration, with fireworks, music, and parties across the city. Here are some top places to welcome the New Year:

• The London Eye Fireworks Display
  London’s iconic fireworks display, centered around the London Eye, is a stunning show that lights up the Thames and the city skyline. Tickets are required for viewing areas, so book early if you want a prime spot.

• The Shard
  The Shard hosts exclusive New Year’s Eve events at its bars and restaurants, offering panoramic views of London. It’s an elegant way to ring in the New Year, with gourmet food, cocktails, and a view of the fireworks.

• Sky Garden
  London’s Sky Garden offers a New Year’s Eve party with live music, dancing, and 360-degree views of the city. The glass-walled venue is perfect for watching the fireworks from a cozy, indoor setting.

• Southbank Centre New Year’s Eve Spectacular
  Southbank Centre hosts a themed New Year’s Eve party with multiple dance floors, live bands, and a terrace overlooking the Thames for a view of the fireworks. The party atmosphere and riverside location make it a popular choice.

• River Thames New Year’s Eve Cruise
  Take a river cruise along the Thames for a unique New Year’s Eve celebration. Many cruises include dinner, drinks, and a view of the fireworks, making it a festive and scenic way to start the New Year.

Your London Holiday Adventure in Christmas, New Year

• Dress Warmly and Comfortably
  Winter in London can be chilly, so dress in layers and bring a cozy coat, gloves, and a scarf to stay warm while exploring outdoor markets and events.

• Try Traditional British Holiday Treats
  Don’t miss British holiday specialties like mince pies, Christmas pudding, and mulled wine. Many cafes and markets offer these treats during the festive season.

• Book in Advance for Popular Events
  Many holiday events in London, such as Winter Wonderland and the New Year’s Eve fireworks, can sell out quickly. Make reservations early for popular attractions and dining spots.

London’s holiday season is full of charm, lights, and festive traditions. From bustling markets to elegant restaurants and spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations, the city offers a memorable Christmas and New Year’s experience that captures the magic of the season.