The best family Christmas events in London

London is a city that has an overwhelming amount of things to do and at Christmas time it can he hard to decide where to take the family. Look no further than this list as we take you through the best events an attractions in the city over the Christmas period this year. From ice skating to the theatre and attractions that are putting on Christmas specials.

 

Elf The Musical

When: Monday 14th November- Saturday 7th January

Where: Dominion Theatre, London

Elf is one of the classic Christmas films and it has been adapted for the theatre stage in recent years. Welcoming in a brilliant cast, it tells the story of Buddy the elf who looks to connect with his long-lost father in New York City. Plenty of laughs will be had when watching this one.

 

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Stick Man

When: Thursday 10th November- Monday 2nd January

Where: Leicester Square Theatre, London

You may remember that Stick Man was adapted from a book and became the BBC's Christmas animation short a few years ago. Now it has been adapted for the stage too and at Leicester Square Theatre you can follow the Stick Man as he goes on a morning jog that he won't forget in a hurry.

 

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The Snowman

When: Saturday 19th November- Saturday 31st December

Where: Peacock Theatre, London

One of the most beautiful short films that is shown on TV every year, The Snowman captures the magic of Christmas, helped by the memorable score that comes alongside it. A heart-warming story, you can experience it on the stage this Christmas period and see that magic in a whole new way.

 

 

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Christmas at Kew

When: Wednesday 16th November- Sunday 8th January

Where: Kew Gardens, London

Kew Gardens has a habit of making the festive period feel truly special. The grounds feature a stunning light show from November to January which makes the whole area look completely different. Enjoy a relaxing walk around and enjoy the various street food traders you can find too for some festive treats.

 

 

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Hogwarts in the Snow

When: Saturday 12th November- Sunday 15th January

Where: Warner Bros Studio Tour, Watford

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is a magical place filled with artefacts from the wizarding world. You'll have seen them all in the hugely successful Harry Potter movies and during Christmas, the whole place has a Winter twist. Fan favourite sets are transformed and you get a closer look at how they made those famous snowy scenes.

 

 

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London Transport Museum

When: Friday 25th November- Monday 2nd January

Where: London Transport Museum, London

The London Transport Museum may not be the first place on your mind when you think of Christmas. But, they go all out and included in your admission price for the museum are two activities. Santa will be visiting and you can explore a winter trail where you can meet the man himself.

 

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Christmas Markets

There are plenty of Christmas markets dotted all around London and we couldn't pick out just one. Instead, we have a few suggestions for you. Firstly there's the Southbank Market which has a wide range of cuisine and beautiful views of London, Covent Garden markets which have all the decorations that your eyes can handle and Greenwich market which is perfect for picking up those extra small gifts.

 

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Ice Skating

Image credit: Pavel Danilyuk (Pexels)

You can find a rich selection of rinks in London such as Alexandra Palace, Somerset House and Hamton Court Palace. There are a few leisure centres with small rinks too. Ice skating may seem scary at first but even if you're clinging to the side you can still have a lot of fun.

 

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Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

When: Friday 18th November- Monday 2nd January

Where: Hyde Park, London

Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas events in London and one that brings in plenty of tourists every year. From light displays to huge amusement park rides, you can enjoy a warm drink and plenty of Christmas-themed food too. You can either have an action-packed adventure or a nice long stroll around.

 

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Christmas at London Zoo

When: Saturday 26th November- Tuesday 3rd January

Where: London Zoo, London

You can meet Santa at London Zoo this year as part of their annual run of events. Across the zoo, you'll find plenty of Christmas-themed activities such as animal crafts and even marshmallow toasting. The polar post room is even in service for you to send off your letters to Santa.

 

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Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.