London Christmas Events

You know Christmas is officially on its way when the Coca Cola advert rears its merry head and celebrities big and small are enlisted in their hundreds to transform our towns into glittering wonderlands.

London is a wonderful place to be this time of year, with plenty of markets, ice rinks, and pantomimes to keep you feeling festive and looking forward to the big day.

The question is, with only one month left until Christmas, which ones do you choose?

London Ice Rinks

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

Returning for its seventh year, The City’s renowned ice rink returns to Canada Square Park nestled between the world-famous Canary Wharf towers. Boasting a winter wonderland fit for any banker, brand-new sharpened skates, and food and drink site The Moose, the Canary Wharf ice rink provides a refined and entertaining winter experience. Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf. Open November 14th – December 16th 2011 & January 9th – February 10th 2012. Monday-Saturday 9:45-23:00, Sunday 9:45-19:30.

Natural History Museum Ice Rink

Set in the beautiful surroundings of London’s Natural History Museum, this 950 square-metre ice rink is an attraction to be enjoyed by couples, families, and school trips alike. Unconfident skaters can sup mulled wine and hot chocolate in the Café Bar whilst admiring the spectacular view from the viewing platform. Natural History Museum, SW7 5BD. Open November 4th 2011 – January 8th 2012. Monday – Friday 11:00 – 22:00, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 – 22:00.

Tower of London Ice Rink

Taking the prize for the most unique ice rink location, the Tower of London ice rink is set in the moat of this historic landmark. Glide seamlessly along the glacier to a musical soundtrack or take a break with a mince pie, this attraction will provide fun for everyone all day long. Tower of London, EC3N 4AB. Open November 19th 2011 – January 8th 2012. Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 22:00.

London Christmas Markets

Christmas Market at Southbank Centre/London Eye

Visit one of London’s most famous tourist attractions whilst taking in the festive air of the Thames, with the Christmas market at Southbank and the London Eye. Adorned with log cabins along the river bank, you can find almost any present you desire here from unusual ethnic jewellery, to handcrafted toys and candy heaven. Finish off your hard work with a mulled wine and a bratwurst… jovial bliss! Southbank Centre/London Eye. Opening times Monday – Thursday & Sunday 11:00-20:00, Friday – Saturday 10:00-22:00. Free.

Duckie Christmas Market

For an independent alternative to your average high street Christmas market, head to the Barbican in Islington for unusual gift ideas. Whether it's kitsch homeware, handmade jewellery, or arts and crafts you’re after, the treasure trove that is the Barbican foyer will cater to all your festive needs and provide some much-needed Christmas cheer. Alongside the market stalls will be the occasional performance and interactive workshop, completing the retro experience. Barbican, EC2Y 8DS. Open December 10th – December 30th, 2:00/18:00-21:30. Free Admission.

Real Food Christmas Market

Stock up on all your winter essentials at the Real Food Christmas Market for two weekends only this December. Brought to you by the team behind the Real Food Festival, all the culinary delights you can imagine will be on hand to keep your cupboards full over Christmas. Mince pies, roast ham, and eggnog are just some of the real food treats you can expect from this ‘Foodie’s’ dream. Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX. December 2nd – December 4th & December 16th – December 18th. Free Admission.

London Christmas Entertainment

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

London’s grandest Christmas event returns to celebrate five years in the legendary Hyde Park, with the brand-new Samsung Galaxy Ice Rink. Acting as the focal point for the site, the ice-rink is the largest in the UK at 1600 m² and will surround the Victorian bandstand to complete a hugely enticing hub. Returning to the attraction is Zippo’s Christmas Circus with not one but two shows this year; the traditional performance and a Cirque Extreme, a daredevil show with exciting and thrilling acts. As well as these festive entertainments, the park will house some of the finest eateries and taverns from around the globe, including the Bavarian Village containing all your bratwurst and beer needs, as well as the debut Carousel Bar which gently rotates as you sip your mulled wine. Finally, attractions such as the The Alpen Fun House, the Power Tower freefall, and Santa Land will keep the kids entertained all day long. Hyde Park, London. Open November 18th 2011 – January 3rd 2012. Monday-Sunday 10:00-22:00. Free admission to park, additional charges to Ice Rink, Zippo’s Christmas Circus, and the Giant Wheel.

The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre

Raymond Brigg’s classic The Snowman comes to life at the Peacock theatre this Christmas, telling the story of a young boy whose snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve. The stage adaptation features dance, glittering sets, and beautiful costumes, sure to be enjoyed by both young and old. Peacock Theatre, EC1R 4TN. November 30th 2011 – January 8th 2012. 

London Snowboat Christmas Cruise

Kill two birds with one stone this Christmas by seeing London’s most famous sights, whilst partying the night away on a Thames cruise. The London Snowboat Christmas cruise operates nightly from Monday to Saturday and takes cruisers from the heart of the historical city, through to the modern sights of the Millennium Bridge and Canary Wharf. Providing a 4-course dinner, bar and wine service, and live entertainment, this is a fabulous way to treat yourself this celebratory season. Party sails from Westminster Pier at 19:30 and returns 23:00. December 1st – December 29th. Tickets from £75 per person.

Have a great Christmas in the capital!

Words: KG

See our London Christmas Events Guide