Best Things To Do In London In Winter

London in winter is pure magic — the city glows with festive lights, cozy cafés, and sparkling ice rinks. From charming Christmas markets to romantic dinners on Valentine’s Day, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you visit in December, January, or February, this complete guide covers the best things to do in London in winter.

1. Explore the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in London

London in winter comes alive with Christmas markets that fill the air with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Each one has its own festive charm.

Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park)

The biggest and most famous Christmas market in London, Winter Wonderland transforms Hyde Park into a huge winter fairground. You’ll find rides, ice skating, street food, and alpine bars.

• Entry: Free (booking required weekends)
• Location: Hyde Park
• Tip: Visit after sunset for the full magical experience.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

Enjoy a walk along the Thames surrounded by twinkling lights, handmade gifts, and festive food stalls.

• Highlights: Raclette, mulled wine, and river views.

Covent Garden Christmas Market

This is the most atmospheric spot during London in winter — with giant red baubles, snow machines, and the iconic Covent Garden Christmas tree.

• Don’t miss: The Apple Market and floral installations.

Buckingham Palace Christmas Market

This Winter, Buckingham Palace opens its gardens for a royal winter fair filled with artisan stalls, festive treats, and Christmas music. You have to buy a ticket to the Buckingham palace for visiting.

• Location: Buckingham Palace Gardens
• Highlight: A rare royal experience in the heart of London in winter.

2. Discover London’s Dazzling Winter Lights

The beauty of London in winter truly shines at night, when the city glows with stunning light displays.

• Oxford Street & Regent Street Lights: Famous angel sculptures and glittering stars stretch across the streets.
• Carnaby Street Lights: Colorful and creative — each year’s theme is unique.
• Kew Gardens “Christmas at Kew”: An unforgettable light trail through the botanical gardens with lasers, illuminated trees, and glowing tunnels.
• Chelsea & Notting Hill: Elegant houses decorated with fairy lights — perfect for evening strolls.
• Tower Bridge & Southbank: Gorgeous views when lit up at dusk.

Tip: Visit between 4:30–10 PM to see London sparkle at its best.

3. The Best Ice Skating Rinks in London

Winter transforms London in winter into a wonderland of festive lights and cozy cafés — and nothing captures that better than ice skating. Here are the top places to glide through the season.

Somerset House Ice Rink

This rink is one of the most iconic in London in winter. The grand courtyard, glowing with fairy lights, creates a magical atmosphere.

• Location: Somerset House, The Strand
• Price: £10–£22
• Highlights: DJ nights, festive drinks, photo-worthy backdrop

Queen’s House Ice Rink

Set in Greenwich, this rink offers scenic views of the Thames and the Royal Naval College — a peaceful experience away from the crowds.

• Price: £9–£16
• Highlights: Tranquil atmosphere, family-friendly

Battersea Power Station Ice Rink

Modern, industrial, and vibrant — perfect for a stylish night out during London in winter.

• Price: £12–£18
• Highlights: River views, nearby restaurants

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

Skate in front of King Henry VIII’s former home — an enchanting experience for all ages.

• Price: £11–£17
• Highlights: Historical backdrop, ideal for families

Skylight Tobacco Dock Ice Rink

A rooftop rink offering skyline views, festive cocktails, and live DJs.

• Price: £12.50
• Highlights: Rooftop bar, city views, cozy winter vibe

4. Shopping & Sales During London in Winter

One of the best things to do in London in winter is shopping. After Christmas, the city becomes a paradise for discounts and deals.

• Oxford Street & Regent Street: Massive Boxing Day and January sales.
• Westfield London (Shepherd’s Bush & Stratford): Huge shopping centers with global brands.
• Covent Garden Boutiques: Independent stores and unique gifts.

Pro tip: Arrive early on December 26 (Boxing Day) for the best deals!

5. Cozy Cafés & Afternoon Tea

When the weather turns chilly, warm up in one of London’s stylish cafés:

• Peggy Porschen (Belgravia): Famous for pink interiors and winter cakes.
• Sketch (Mayfair): Luxurious afternoon tea experience.
• EL&N Café or Feya: Instagram heaven, with pastel décor and festive drinks.
• The Ritz London: A traditional Afternoon Tea with pianist and Christmas decor.

6. Indoor Attractions to Enjoy in London in Winter

Cold days are the perfect excuse to explore London’s world-class museums and theaters:

• British Museum – free, vast, and fascinating.
• Natural History Museum – dinosaurs, gems, and Victorian architecture.
• Victoria & Albert Museum – art, fashion, and design.
• Tate Modern – contemporary art and stunning city views.
• West End Musicals – see The Lion King, Wicked, Les Misérables, or Hamilton.

7. Eat, Drink, and Stay Warm

The food scene in London in winter is all about warmth and comfort:

• Sunday roast – hearty British meal (try The Jugged Hare).
• Mulled wine & hot gin – at Christmas markets and winter bars.
• Festive sandwiches – limited editions at Pret, Costa, and M&S.
• Camden Market – open year-round, filled with street food aromas.

8. Visit the Harry Potter Studio – Hogwarts in the Snow

During London in winter, Warner Bros. Studio Tour transforms into Hogwarts in the Snow. Explore the Yule Ball decorations, snowy Diagon Alley, and festive Great Hall.

• Location: Leavesden (20 min by train from Euston)
• Book early: Tickets often sell out weeks in advance. You can book the here.

9. Winter Day Trips from London

If you want to escape the city, London in winter offers charming one-day getaways:

• Windsor Castle: Royal Christmas decorations.
• Bath: Beautiful Georgian city with festive markets.
• Oxford: Snow-dusted colleges and cozy pubs. You can book classic tour or a special Harry Potter tour.

10. February Highlights in London in Winter

Even as the season nears its end, London in winter keeps the excitement going with these February events:

Lunar New Year in Chinatown

Celebrate with dragon parades, traditional food, and live performances — the biggest Chinese New Year event in Europe!

London Fashion Week

Each February, global designers showcase the year’s top trends. Public events and pop-up installations are available — check schedules online.

Valentine’s Day in London

Romantic dinners with skyline views — try Sky Garden, Duck & Waffle, or Aqua Shard. For something quieter, book a candlelit dinner in Notting Hill or Soho.

Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens

Brighten your winter with tropical blooms from around the world. The Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens is a favorite February escape from the cold.

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