Magical Christmas in London with children! The ultimate family guide

Christmas in London is one of the most magical times of the year, and a visit with children can offer unforgettable experiences for the whole family. London transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets, lights, outdoor ice rinks, theatres, and other activities for all ages to enjoy. Whether it's a stroll in Hyde Park, or exploring Winter Wonderland, there are countless things to do during Christmas in London. Let's look in detail at what every family can enjoy in London in December 2024.

Ice Skating in London

If there's one activity that is perfectly associated with Christmas, it's ice skating. London offers a plethora of ice rinks that open from early November and last until early January. These rinks, often located in historical and cultural settings, combine sport with Christmas magic.

Somerset House

Somerset House is one of the most famous and photographed places for ice skating in London. The ice rink set up in the courtyard of the Renaissance building offers visitors a unique skating experience in an idyllic setting. The lights adorning Somerset House, combined with festive melodies and outdoor cafes, create the perfect atmosphere to experience Christmas with your family. To ensure your participation, it is essential to book tickets in advance, as demand is high.

Battersea Power Station

This iconic industrial landmark in London transforms every winter into a Christmas destination, offering visitors the chance to ice skate beneath the imposing building. After skating, families can enjoy hot cocoa and browse the Christmas stalls set up around the station.

Hampton Court Palace

If you want to enjoy skating away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then Hampton Court Palace is the ideal choice. Henry VIII's palace sets up an outdoor ice rink on its grounds every year, offering a unique experience. Visitors can enjoy both day and night sessions, with the atmosphere becoming even more magical in the evening when the entire area is illuminated. Children will love the history and atmosphere of the palace, and after skating, there's the option to visit the palace itself and its gardens.

Christmas Lights in London

One of the most impressive elements of Christmas in London is the festive lights that adorn every corner of the city. Throughout December, the British capital is lit up by thousands of fairy lights, creating a spectacular display that thrills young and old. From the main streets to luxury shopping centres and historic squares, London's Christmas lights are a must-see for every visitor.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is always worth a stop, but at Christmas, this area transforms into a real gem. From early November, the iconic market is decorated with giant bells, baubles, and impressive mirror balls, all combined with Covent Garden's Christmas tree. You'll also find outdoor Christmas markets there, offering mulled wine, handmade gifts, and much more. Don't miss the Wonder Wood exhibition, a unique celebration of light that lasts until early January.

Carnaby Street

Carnaby is famous for its spectacular and creative Christmas decorations. In 2024, Carnaby Universe promises a mesmerising experience with colourful neon spheres and glowing waves that transform Carnaby Street into an artistic light display. Visitors can enjoy the illuminations from early November, and on the day the lights are switched on, a big party with music, food, and shopping is also organised.

Regent Street and Oxford Street

The famous “Spirits of Christmas” exhibition on Regent Street turns the road into a magical scene with illuminated angels hovering above the crowds. Thousands of LED lights create a unique spectacle, and the entire street fills with the glow of Christmas. On neighbouring Oxford Street, the lights also offer an impressive experience. The department stores' Christmas window displays complement the atmosphere, making a stroll through these two iconic London locations one of the top family activities during the festive season.

Mayfair

Luxury Mayfair, known for its fine shops and historic buildings, is adorned with thousands of lights every year. At Christmas, this area is filled with dazzling decorations and illuminations, creating an atmosphere of absolute luxury. It's the ideal place for a family stroll, while the shop windows add an extra touch of magic.

Chelsea

In West London, Chelsea fills with festive cheer, with its lights switched on from mid-November. The area also organises Christmas events for the whole family, and offers traditional treats such as mulled wine and mince pies. During the light-up event, Father Christmas and his reindeer visit the area, bringing extra joy to the children.

Christmas Markets in London

London's Christmas markets are among the most famous in Europe, attracting thousands of visitors every year. These markets are set up in central locations across the city and are filled with wooden chalets, offering festive products, mulled wine, food, and Christmas gifts. Let's look at London's top Christmas markets for 2024:

Kingston Christmas Market

From 14 November 2024 to 5 January 2025, Kingston-upon-Thames hosts one of London's most traditional Christmas markets. With over 40 wooden chalets, an alpine village, and fire pits, this market offers an authentic Christmas experience. Visitors can enjoy food such as hog roast and mulled wine, and there's also live entertainment throughout the market.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

The Southbank Centre market, next to the Thames, is one of London's best-known Christmas markets. From early November, the Queen’s Walk fills with traditional chalets, where you can find seasonal products and flavours. It’s an ideal location to combine a stroll along the Thames and enjoy the magnificent views.

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Christmas in London: Activities for Children

Christmas at Kew Gardens

Christmas at the famous botanical Kew Gardens is one of the most magical Christmas experiences in London. The garden transforms with over a million lights illuminating the pathways, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for the whole family. Children can walk among the illuminated trees and enjoy the spectacular light trails.

• Duration: From 13 November 2024 to 8 January 2025
• Tip: Book your tickets in advance, as availability sells out quickly.
• Access: The nearest station is Kew Gardens on the District Line of the Underground or Kew Bridge station from Waterloo.

Enchanted Woodland at Syon Park

The Enchanted Woodland at Syon Park is one of London's most impressive and child-friendly Christmas attractions. The mile-long illuminated trail, with stunning projections and lasers, guides visitors through a magical forest. Children will be thrilled by the colourful lights and dazzling scenes that change colours and forms as they walk.

• Duration: From 5 p.m. daily, ideal for visiting with younger children.

Hogwarts in the Snow

For young fans of Harry Potter, the Christmas experience at Warner Bros Studio Tour is absolutely enchanting. Hogwarts transforms into a snowy setting, where children can walk through the corridors and sets from the films, all transformed for the festive season. Christmas at Hogwarts offers an immersive experience, where the magic of the films comes to life through special Christmas sets.

• Duration: From 16 November 2024 to 19 January 2025.
• Tip: Secure your tickets early, as this experience is particularly popular during the holidays.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Winter Wonderland is one of London's premier Christmas events. In Hyde Park, this Winter Wonderland offers countless activities for families, from outdoor ice rinks and ice skating to a circus, rides, and a Christmas gift market. The Giant Wheel at Winter Wonderland offers panoramic views of snowy London, while younger visitors can enjoy carousels, sleigh rides, and many other fun activities.

• Amenities: There are plenty of ice rinks, a large ice slide, food and drink stalls, and a huge Christmas market.
• Duration: Winter Wonderland opens from mid-November until early January.
• Tip: Book activities online to avoid long queues.

London's Christmas markets

London's Christmas markets are another draw for families wanting to experience the magic of Christmas. Some of the best markets include:

• Southbank Centre Winter Market: Along the Thames, filled with wooden chalets offering handmade gifts, mulled wine, and delicious street food. Children can enjoy carousels and small rides at the fair set up in the area.
• Kingston Christmas Market: A little outside central London, this market offers a more traditional experience with alpine chalets, traditional treats, and games for children.
• Greenwich Christmas Market: With over 150 stalls and a warm Christmas atmosphere, the market in Greenwich is ideal for families who want to combine a trip to this historic area with their shopping.

Visiting Father Christmas

London offers many opportunities to meet Father Christmas. Some of the best locations include:

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: One of the most popular destinations to see Father Christmas. Children can visit Father Christmas's grotto and receive a small Christmas gift.
• Hamleys: The famous toy store on Regent Street organises Christmas events where children can meet Father Christmas and participate in seasonal activities.
• Harrods: At the iconic Harrods department store, Father Christmas welcomes young visitors in style. Spaces are limited, so it's advisable to book your tickets early.
• Natural History Museum: Father Christmas's grotto at the Natural History Museum is also an excellent option, offering a calmer and more magical experience with stories and photos with Father Christmas.

Afternoon Tea with Father Christmas

A unique experience you can enjoy with your children is afternoon tea with Father Christmas at Fenwick Kingston. Children will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, while Father Christmas's elves will invite them for a meeting and photo session with Father Christmas himself.

• Duration: From 30 November to 24 December 2024.
• Cost: £29.50 per person.
• Tip: Tickets go on sale from October, so make sure to book your reservation in advance.

West End theatre shows for children

London's West End is renowned for its theatrical productions, and Christmas is no exception. Some of the best shows for children in 2024 include:

• Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out: The beloved children's character comes to life on stage, in a show full of humour and fun for younger children. The show plays at the Theatre Royal from 28 November to 5 January 2025.
• The Snowman: Raymond Briggs' classic snowman returns to the Peacock Theatre, in a magical performance that will captivate young audiences. This classic Christmas show is a must-see for families visiting London.
• Matilda the Musical: Based on Roald Dahl's classic book, Matilda the Musical is one of the West End's most popular shows and an excellent choice for families looking to see a captivating musical during Christmas.

Where to stay in London with children at Christmas

When visiting London at Christmas with children, choosing the right hotel is crucial to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. London offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly lodgings. Here are five top hotel choices that are ideal for families:

1. Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London

The Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is one of London's most popular hotels for families, due to its excellent location and amenities. It is located in the heart of London, directly opposite Big Ben and Westminster, and is within walking distance of the London Eye. The hotel's large suites are ideal for families, offering plenty of space to feel comfortable.

• Amenities: Indoor swimming pool, wellness centre, family-friendly restaurants, and excellent views of Westminster.
• Average cost: 300€ per night.
• Pros: Central location, excellent facilities for families.
• Cons: High cost during peak seasons.

2. Premier Inn London County Hall

• Location: Central London, near the London Eye and the River Thames
• The Premier Inn London County Hall is an excellent choice for families due to its central location and proximity to popular attractions such as the London Eye and Big Ben. It offers family rooms, comfortable facilities, and affordable prices. The hotel is next to the historic County Hall and is in a safe area with many dining options and activities for children.
• Average cost: Approximately 150-180€ per night

3. Park Plaza County Hall London

• Location: South Bank, near Waterloo Station
• The Park Plaza County Hall is located in a safe and family-friendly area next to the Thames and offers large family rooms, as well as free accommodation for children under 12 when sharing a room with their parents. The location is ideal for accessing major tourist attractions such as the London Eye and Shrek’s Adventure, making it perfect for families.
• Average cost: Approximately 180-220€ per night

4. Holiday Inn Express London – Southwark

• Location: South Bank, near Tate Modern
• The Holiday Inn Express Southwark is ideal for families, offering comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and located in a quiet and safe area. It is close to Tate Modern and many restaurants offering child-friendly options. Its proximity to underground stations makes it easy to access the city's main attractions.
• Average cost: Approximately 130-160€ per night

5. Novotel London Tower Bridge

The Novotel London Tower Bridge is ideal for families looking for affordable solutions without compromising on comfort. It is located near the Tower of London and London Bridge, making it an excellent base for exploring the city's attractions. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel offers excellent amenities for families.

• Amenities: Family rooms, children's menu in restaurants, free Wi-Fi, and children's activities.
• Average cost: 200€ per night.
• Pros: Good location and excellent value for money.
• Cons: Limited luxury options.

How to get to London

London is one of the most popular destinations in the world and is easily accessible from Greece, both from Athens and Thessaloniki. If you are planning to visit London at Christmas with your family, there are many flight options, catering to most tastes and budgets.

Flights from Athens

Athens offers many direct flights to London's major airports. Airlines covering this route include traditional carriers such as British Airways and Aegean Airlines, as well as low-cost options like Ryanair and easyJet.

• British Airways: British Airways operates daily direct flights from "Eleftherios Venizelos" airport to London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Flights last approximately 4 hours and offer high-quality services, making it an ideal choice for families seeking comfort.
• Aegean Airlines: Aegean Airlines also operates direct flights to Heathrow, offering similar levels of comfort and service, with many departure time options throughout the day.
• Ryanair: For those looking for more economical options, Ryanair flies daily to London's Stansted airport. Although amenities are more limited, ticket prices are quite competitive, especially if you book several months in advance.
• easyJet: easyJet also operates direct flights to Gatwick and Luton airports, with more affordable prices. This is a good option for those who want to save money for other activities in London, such as shopping or family outings.

Flights from Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki also offers several direct flights to London, making it easy for travellers from Northern Greece to get there.

• British Airways: Although direct flights from Thessaloniki to London are fewer compared to Athens, British Airways offers direct routes to Heathrow during the week. Flights are comfortable and ideal for families with children.
• Ryanair: Ryanair is probably the most economical option from Thessaloniki, with regular flights to Stansted. As with flights from Athens, low prices are the main advantage, although it's good to know that you should book early to secure the best prices.
• easyJet: easyJet also offers affordable tickets to London's Gatwick airport, ideal for families looking for a balance between price and services.

Choosing an airport in London

London is served by five major airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and City Airport.

• Heathrow: It is London's largest and busiest airport, and is approximately 30 minutes from the city centre by Heathrow Express. If you prefer to reach central London quickly, Heathrow is the best option.
• Gatwick: London's second largest airport, it offers easy access to the centre via the Gatwick Express. If you are flying with easyJet or British Airways, you will likely land at Gatwick.
• Stansted: Located further north of London, but popular for cheap flights. Families looking for economical options will find Stansted quite practical, although the journey to the city centre takes about 45 minutes by train.
• Luton: Similar to Stansted, Luton is primarily served by low-cost airlines. Access to London is by train, but the distance is greater than the other airports.
• City Airport: Although smaller, City Airport is very close to central London, making it ideal for quick transfers. However, flights to this airport are more expensive and offered by limited airlines.

Book your flight tickets in advance

During Christmas, flights to London are particularly popular, and it's important to book your tickets as early as possible. To find the best deals on flights, you can visit travelo.gr, where you will also find other flight options to London, as well as tips for organising your trip.

Summary for parents: What to expect from Christmas in London with children

Christmas in London is an experience full of magic and memories that every family will cherish for years. London is ideal for family holidays, with a plethora of activities tailored for both children and parents. Whether it's a stroll through the Christmas markets or an afternoon of ice skating, the city offers countless options to enjoy Christmas to the fullest.

For adventurous families, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of the top places not to be missed. Children will love the rides, ice rinks, and endless fun activities, while parents can relax with mulled wine and traditional treats. For those who prefer the city's cultural side, West End theatre shows, featuring beloved children's characters like Peppa Pig, are always a good option.

The Christmas lights adorning London will make you feel like you're in a fairy tale. From the lights of Covent Garden to Regent Street, the city comes alive with millions of fairy lights, creating a magical atmosphere that will thrill the whole family.

When it comes to accommodation options, London offers everything: from luxury hotels to more economical lodgings, all with excellent facilities for families. The most important thing is to book your accommodation early, as Christmas in London is one of the most popular times of the year and hotels fill up quickly.

For more information and suggestions for your Christmas holidays, you can explore our articles on Travelo.gr, where you will find detailed guides for various destinations, helping you make the best decision for your next trip.