I have a bit of a love hate relationship with London having been here on and off for the last thirteen years. I detest the colder months and generally crave warmer climates. The days are short with it getting dark at around 4pm.
However, despite all of my qualms with London, there is something so magical and special about Christmas here. This is something I have realised even more having Christmas in London with kids and taking in all the festivities.
From an abundance of markets to Christmas lights, there is so much going on at Christmas in London with kids.
You can find even more things to do in London with Kids all year round here
Christmas In London With Kids
Christmas At Kew Gardens
Christmas at Kew is simply phenomenal and has been our top activity for Christmas in London with kids.
The hour and a half night time trail around the park is a feast for the sense with over a million lights, lasers and seasonal sounds.
Every tree is lit up in a variety of stunning colours, not to mention dancing lakeside reflections and glittering tunnels of light!
It’s the perfect evening out with the children over the festive period exploring the Christmas lights trail.
This year there will be flickering flames in the fire garden, spot larger-than-life illuminations and say hello to Father Christmas along the way.
There will also be street vendors dotted around the trail tempting you with delicious festive treats and ‘spiced winter warmers’ for the parents and hot chocolates for the kids.
You can get mulled wine and hot apple cocktails along the trail and there is also a kids fun fair area with classical rides. What a fantastic evening out!
Tickets need to be purchased well in advance and booking is required this year. The ticket portal helpfully indicates peak and non peak times.
Christmas at Kew Gardens is available from 13th November 2024 – 5th January 2025.
To find out more information and to buy tickets click here.
SEA LIFE London’s “Snowy Conservation Crew”
Snowy at Sea Life London is on a mission to help the animals of the North Pole have a great Christmas and an even better future.
This is a great opportunity for little ones to learn about the world’s oceans and their inhabitants and meet some of the incredible Arctic animals.
There will be interactive challenges with families encouraged to find the answer within the Sea Life Centre, learn about the oceans and have lots of fun.
The event runs from 7th – 24th December from 10 am – 4 pm and it is included in the ticket price.
Discover the festive fun at Sea Life London this December.
Shrek The Halls!
Shrek’s The Halls is popular with little ones. On arrival, kids put on 4-D glasses and take a magical tour on a bus.
Things are a little different this time of year for this Family-friendly Shrek the Halls.
London on the South Bank, offers a holiday grotto inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s cherished Christmas special, Shrek the Halls.
Let the big green ogre bring a unique and festive misadventure for the entire family to enjoy, replacing Santa with a dose of yuletide cheer.
Shrek Santa has got into the festive spirit and is dressed for the occasion so guests can snap a selfie with the big green ogre in person from 30th of November to 24th of December 2024 and receive a complimentary Christmas card – all included in the standard ticket price!
Shrek’s Adventure is on the Southbank beside the Sea Life aquarium and the London Eye. Shrek Santa gives a candy treat and a photo with him, which is included in the price.
Book your tickets to Shrek’s Adventure online here.
The London Eye: Christmas Lights
The London Eye is one of London’s Iconic places to visit. This Christmas they have gone all out with the a bespoke Christmas light-up design, set to wow and dazzle it’s guests.
As the night draws in, hop aboard the London Eye and watch the night sky come alive! Marvel at the glittering cityscape, with stunning views of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and more.
The London Eye will be decorated with twinkly lights and garlands, it is the perfect place to take a family selfie, and a memorable evening for all.
The event is only running from 15th – 25th December 2024.
Check out this Festive Christmas Experience at the London Eye.
A Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Walk
Join this culturally rich Christmas walking tour, where you can delve into the world of Dickens and the rich history of Christmas in London.
This small group is limited to 6 people where you will uncover hidden alleyways, taverns and courtyards you might otherwise have missed.
Follow in Scrooge’s footsteps throughout London and discover cosy London pubs whilst garnering new knowledge and attention to finer details.
When: various dates from the 9th October 2024
Where: meeting point, Temple Station, Temple Pl, Temple, London WC2R 2PH, UK
Book the Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens Small Walking Group here.
Tour London’s Christmas Lights on Foot
Kids love to look at the Christmas lights. It feels magical to them and us! If you wrap up warm then why not take a walk around London and look at the lights and stunning views.
For older kids, you may want a guide to take you to the hidden gems in London. A walking tour is perfect. Explore unique Christmas gems around Covent Garden, the Strand, and Trafalgar Square.
It is a great way to get into the swing of things and see some less known about sights.
Find out more information here.
Open-Top Christmas Lights Bus Tour
Visit some of the top attractions sitting on top of a vintage open double-decker bus, you’ll have the best seats in the house to experience the glowing Christmassy streets of London.
Watch the city light up when the sun goes down, and see how London does Christmas.
The journey starts from the illuminated London Eye, and onto the iconic Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Marvel at the exquisite displays in Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral.
What better way to combine this experience and travel around the city looking at the lights and displays at Christmas. The bus is decorated for the occasion and a guide is there to crack a few jokes along the way.
Cross the magical Tower Bridge and hear all about the historic Tower of London. Cruise through the winding streets of London and feel dazzled by the merry décor.
Take your pick between a live or audio guide to learn some jolly facts about each location.
Tours depart at 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM and starts from the London Eye, Belvedere Road, Tourist bus stop number 77, London, SE1 7GH (nearest tube station is Waterloo, 2 minute walk).
Tickets are available to book now for the 1st – 31st of December 2024.
For more information about the Christmas Lights Bus tour click here.
London Illuminated Lights
Explore the wonderful illuminated lights at Fulham Palace this Christmas. Immerse yourself in a dazzling and colourful world, as Fulham Palace Gardens are transformed into a Winter Wonderland.
As you wander through this whimsical display, indulge in some boutique shopping, delicious food, and mulled wine. There will even be fire pits where you can toast marshmallows.
Keep an eye out for the captivating performances planned by fire breathers and stilt walkers. The amazing Britain’s Go Talent magician, Markele, will be on-site to wow guests.
Christmas in London with kids is magical, and this event is no exception.
This runs from the 28th of November to the 22nd of December 2024.
Find out more information here.
Hogwarts In The Snow
If you or your kids are Harry Potter fans, this will be the ultimate bucket list experience. In December the Harry Potter studio tour is transformed into a festive wonderland, Hogwarts in the Snow.
Think towering snow-covered Christmas trees in the great hall to meticulously decorated Diagon Alley with its snowy shop fronts and cobbled pathways.
An extra special after-hours event is planned including a Christmas dinner in the great hall.
This iconic and whimsical event takes place from 16th November 2024 to 19th January 2025.
You and your kids will get to experience a two-course Christmas dinner sitting at house tables surrounded by wizarding Christmas decor.
When you’re finished eating you can attend the Disco and explore the studio visiting all the spots on the tour. You’ll also get to taste a butterbeer and see Hogwarts in the snow!
You can buy tickets for the Harry Potter studio tour here.
Christmas In Leicester Square
Underbelly is back for another year this Christmas in Leicester Square, think Christmas markets, delicious street food and outdoor venues serving up all the festive favourites.
There will also be entertainment from the famous La Clique cabaret but is more suited to ages 16 yrs and over.
This event runs from the 6th of November 2024 – 5th January 2025.
Ice Palace Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace
The Strand Palace Hotel will hold a Children’s Christmas afternoon tea in London’s West End. The tea starts from £25 on weekdays and £30 for weekends (up to 12 years of age) which includes a variety of festive fare and live entertainment.
Make sure to try the hand-crafted snowman cake. Enjoy a tier of sandwiches, featuring savoury and sweet Christmas gourmet treats.
This enchanting afternoon experience is the ideal way for the family to celebrate the festive season in London.
Find out more information here.
Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace
This year Hampton Court Palace will be transformed into a food lovers Christmas Wonderland from the 6th-8th & 13th-15th of December 2024, the Festive Fayre returns.
Soak up the Christmas atmosphere at the palace as you eat, drink, shop and be merry, with entertainment from the East Front bandstand.
With various delights from Christmas pudding to sausages, and brownies to churros, the hand-picked artisan producers and companies will be showcasing their most delicious fare.
Entry to the Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre is included in your Hampton Court Palace admission ticket. HRP members go free with pre-booking.
To find out more information or to book tickets click here.
Festive Fun at the WWT
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust is holding a festive family fun day on the 21st of December 2024.
There will be gospel choir performances, enchanting storytelling sessions, face painting and hands on workshops, all taking place in the beautiful wetland setting.
The playful otters will enjoy their unique Christmas gifts, lovingly made by visitors during our otter gift-making session, followed by an interesting talk.
For those with a creative spark, our “Make a Gift for Nature” workshop offers the perfect chance to create something meaningful.
This is the perfect day out to immerse yourself in the festive spirit in the great outdoors.
You can also enjoy marshmallow toasting and participate in our cookie-decorating workshop, however this does cost slightly more.
Participation is free, and activities are included with admission and/or membership.
Go Ice-Skating
During Christmas in London with Kids, you are likely to come across the many ice-skating rinks that open up during the festive period. I love ice-skating!
We took Esmé to a skating rink a few years ago. In truth, she was probably too young for it.
I think close to three years old is a good age. However, if you like to start them young, many places have penguin helpers for little ones to keep their balance.
Equally, they do not wear ordinary ice-skating boots. Instead, they wear double blades strapped onto their own shoes. Make sure to check if your rink of choice provides both and book them in advance.
This year there are outdoor ice rinks at Hampton Court Palace and Hyde Park.
For the first time this year, Brent Cross Shopping Centre has already launched Brent on Ice from the 1st of November.
Fujifilm House of Photography
The Fujifilm House of Photography will host an interactive and festive photo adventure, transforming visitors into a North Pole setting.
Activities include meeting Santa, DIY Christmas crafts, festive games, a photo booth, an elf workshop, and a Christmas-themed post office.
Visitors can enjoy creating and mailing personalised photo-based Christmas cards and letters to Santa. Each session lasts 30 minutes, including 3 minutes with Santa.
Tickets and booking
- £30 per child, which includes a gift from Santa, a 6″x4″ photo, and entry for up to two adults.
- Additional photo gifts are available for purchase, with options printed onsite.
- Reservations can be made online through the Fujifilm House of Photography website.
Where: Fujifilm House of Photography, 8-9 Long Acre, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9LH.
When: From 15th November to 24th December 2024.
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is holding a Dino Snores event for both kids and adults. It is a once and a lifetime opportunity where kids get to explore the museum at night with torches.
There are a ton of other educational and fun activities planned.
The event is for children between 7 and 11 years and there is a required number of adults who must attend. If parents are not accompanying their children, a consent form must be signed.
As children are sleeping at the museum, they must bring a sleeping bag, a pillow and some other items.
All items are listed on their website.
Click here for more information or to book a ticket to Dino Snores
Legoland At Christmas
This Christmas Legoland will be transforming into a twinkling winter wonderland. Make sure to get a photo in front of the giant Duplo Christmas tree before exploring over 30 rides and attractions to get you into the festive spirit.
This year there will be a Duplo puppet show, Christmas Carols, snow-dusted trees and the big man himself roaming the park on his magical sleigh.
For tickets to Legoland click here.
Go to a Christmas Pantomime or Musical Performance
There are so many Christmas pantomimes and theatre performances happening over the festive period in London. The most popular this year seems to be Aladdin.
In our family, growing up, my grandmother took all of the grandchildren to a Christmas pantomime in Dublin where we lived. I loved that tradition and it’s something I hope to carry on with my children.
A pantomime is a must-do when having Christmas in London with kids. A few examples of shows include Jack and the Beanstalk at the London Palladium and Cinderella at the Kings Head Theatre.
There are many other shows in suburban London which are less expensive and probably easier to secure tickets.
Find the best deals on theatre tickets around London here.
Horrible Histories Live
Horrible Histories is not your usual panto, it is Horrible Histories with a festive flair! Here to spread holiday cheer with a delightfully twisted take on fan-favourite Horrible Christmas!
This is a must-see event with lots of sing-alongs and “it’s behind you!” moments!
Taking place in London’s iconic and recently restored Alexandra Palace Theatre from the 12th of December until the 4th of January.
Maddie Moate’s A Very Curious Christmas
Beloved Children’s TV presenter Maddie Moates makes her debut West End appearance, with a festive and exciting live science show for the whole family.
There will be story-telling, an exploration into the history of Christmas and exciting festive experiments and an exploration of the science behind Christmas. This will be a great show for all the STEM loving families!
This is all taking place at London’s Apollo Theatre from the 6th December 2024 – 4th January 2025.
Book tickets here to enjoy this Very Curious Christmas!
Peppa Pig on Stage
Peppa Pig has a fun day out at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The show is an hour and twenty minutes and promises to be full of laughter, games and songs.
Come along with Peppa, her family, and friends as they visit the zoo and beach for a special party—it’s set to be a day filled with excitement and fun.
Performance dates run from the 28th November 2024 – 5th January 2025.
Find out more information and tickets about Peppa Pig Fun Day Out click here.
The Snowman
See this timeless tale enacted in The Peacock Theatre. The much-loved Snowman musical tale is set to bring awe and wonder to the whole family.
“Walking in the Air” is hauntingly nostalgic during the festive season and how wonderful to hear it in London’s West End.
Book tickets for the Snowman here!
Sneaky Christmas at Eltham Palace
Immerse yourself in this theatrical festive experience at Eltham Palace, exploring the meaning and magic of Christmas.
Father Christmas needs your help in restoring the true meaning of Christmas saving Lapland’s magic. There will be lots of characters to meet, all leading to a heartwarming meet and greet with Santa Claus.
Expect theatrical story-telling, captivating performances and photo opportunities. Children are provided with an ethically sourced gift, a token of appreciation for helping restore the meaning of Christmas.
You can catch this wonderful experience from the 23rd of November – 22nd of December 2024.
Find out more details and book here.
Potted Panto
The Potted Panto is a must-see performance, combining seven of your favourite classic pantomimes, bringing together the silliest and most hilarious stories to have you chuckling away.
This is the West Ends longest running pantomine, and it’s easy to see why it is so popular! There is a host of eclectic characters, bringing extra Christmas sparkle and chaos.
This is taking place in Wilton’s Music Hall from the 4th December – 4th January, with a special “no booking fee” offer available now.
The Holly King and the Oak King
The Holly King and the Oak King is a performance taking place at Battersea Arts Centre. It is based on an Old Celtic folk-tale that will take you on a magical journey across the seasons, exploring the balance of nature and the elements in our ever-changing world
This enchanting theatrical trail for all the family is in collaboration with an award-winning immersive events company that focuses on nature connectedness, collective wonder and the power of play.
Find out more information here. Performances take place throughout December.
Visit Christmas markets
There are many Christmas markets oozing with festive smells of fir trees, cinnamon, cardamon and mulled wine. Mix it in with a fresh dose of cold air and you have a true Christmas market experience.
I love sipping on the mulled wine as I wander around looking at little handmade gifts, winter woollies and all the festive foods. Esmé enjoys tasting the samples and always seems content taking in the new sites and smells.
Most markets have attractions nearby whether its funfair style games to merry go rounds to keep the little ones content.
Wembley Park Festive Market
Wembley Park is hosting an extensive lineup of free seasonal activities events and offers this festive season, returning from it’s successful Festive Market last year.
Although dates have not been announced yet, it has been confirmed it will be returning! It has been confirmed that it will run for three weekends in December 2024.
Last year’s festive market featured many stalls to explore, including those with crafts and distinctive artisan goods. There was live music, entertainment and all the classic Christmas tunes.
Other activities included a brand new light based interactive maze, art installations and live choirs.
Situated on Market Square and Olympic Way, The Wembley Park Festive Market promises an unmissable afternoon brimming with yuletide cheer.
There are many Christmas Markets to choose from this year. Some of the best in the city are the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square Christmas Market, Hyde Park and Greenwich Market.
Make sure to head along to one this Christmas in London with kids!
Tour the Christmas Markets
For those who which to tour the most festive parts of the city, a tour of the Christmas markets is perfect. A local guide joins a small group to tour some of the best Christmas markets in the city.
No itinerary is the same as it is created around the likes and interests of the guests.
Food and drinks are not included except a hot chocolate or soft drink for kids and mulled wine for parents. Christmas markets are great to get people in the festive spirit and maybe pick up some last-minute gifts for loved ones.
Check out the Christmas Market tour here.
Winter Wonderland
This year Hyde Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. This isn’t an average Christmas market. The activities being held this year go on and on.
Along with ice skating, there is a magical ice kingdom to explore, Santa land with the guest of honour and various other rides for all different ages including a real ice slide.
Older children may enjoy the ice sculpting workshops or circus stunts. Families can enjoy Zippos Christmas Circus. There is plenty to eat and drink and lots of stalls at the Christmas market.
It is an all-day event and there are plenty of places to rest while there.
The Fire Pit has many different bands and DJs playing or warm up in the Family Chill Space in Santa Land.
Find out more about Winter Wonderland here.
The Tower of London
Visitors to The Tower of London can embark on a distinctive Christmas journey this year, where festivity and history will come together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Bringing a touch of festive delight and Royal Regalia to the capitals iconic Tower with enchanting coronation-themed installations throughout the holiday season.
Watch out for ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ taking place on the 27th – 31st December featuring themed actors bringing the festivities to life as you explore the corridors of the famous Victorian Tower.
‘Spirit of Christmas’ will be taking place daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm
The Tower of London is not known for being kid-friendly. This is due to the height of the displays and it is not pushchair friendly.
If families are visiting with little ones, bring a carrier and be prepared to lift young kids up to see the displays.
Buy tickets to the Tower of London here.
The Museum of London
The Museum of London has many events during the school holidays such as half term. They have a lineup of events to suit all of the family.
This Christmas they will be running a Victorian Santa’s Grotto, with quieter sessions available. The Sailortown Gallery will be decked out in festive decorations, where children can meet Father Christmas.
Children will receive a nice gift, and photography is permitted. Families can then explore the museum and enjoy a nice day out.
Check out the website for more information.
Visit Santa’s Grotto
There are many Santa’s Grottos’s to be found during Christmas In London with Kids. Esmé has seen Santa every year.
The first was a total disaster because she was incredibly scared. The second she was wary and the third time pictured here she knew she was getting a little present so she was pretty happy.
Some Santa experiences can be extortionately priced. However, this one, which you can see looks quite authentic.
Father Christmas Story Telling at Chelsea Physic Garden
Enjoy this festive wonderland at Chelsea Physic Garden, nestled on the bank of the Thames. Father Christmas will share a magical, festive story in a beautifully decorated Greenhouse Themed Grotto.
Each child will receive a special gift from Father Christmas and there will be a photo opportunity.
Enjoy the magic and wonder of London’s oldest botanical gardens after Santa’s visit. There will be Christmas crafts, and you can warm up with an obligatory mulled wine or hot chocolate.
This magical grotto is available to visit on the 30th of November and 1, 7-8, 14-15 & 22-22 December 2024
Santas Grotto at John Lewis
John Lewis on Oxford Street is hosting a festive Santa’s Grotto. Join the elves for a Christmas crafting session, visit Father Christmas and receive a special gift.
There is also Santa Story Time and Santa’s Tea Party at selected John Lewis locations in London.
Find out more information on booking here.
Black Santa’s Grotto
Black Santa’s Grotto and Christmas Market is back this year. This enchanting winter wonderland will be a memorable experience, where dazzling lights will guide you along the snowy path to meet Santa.
When the children have shared their Christmas wishes with Santa, he will hand select a very special gift for them and there will be a photo opportunity.
Afterwards, there will be a host of Christmas crafts to enjoy, whether it is ornament decoration or designing festive cards, this is sure to be an enchanting day for families.
There will be mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies if you are tempted!
This special event takes place on the 30th of November and 1st December 2024.of
Where: Streatham Space Project, Sternhold Avenue London SW2 4PA
For further details and booking, check here.
Father Christmas at Fulham Palace
Fulham Palace will be warm and welcoming with roaring fires, stunning decorations and delicious mince pies.
Create a memorable experience this Christmas with a choice of meeting the man himself in either the historic library of Bishop Shelock’s room.
Share your holiday wishes with Father Christmas and create a festive keepsake with his little elves.
This will take place on the 14th and 15th of December.
Find out more information here.
Hamley’s Santas Grotto
Hamley’s Santas Grotto is returning for another year with plenty of festive cheer and joyful traditions. What better place to see Father Christmas than in one of the world’s most famous toy shops?
You will be greeted by Hamley’s elves, where you can enjoy festive games and cheer. Each child will meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift and photo opportunity.
Tickets have not yet been released, but they are very popular so do keep an eye here for updates.
Storytelling with Santa, Chiswick House
Celebrate Christmas with a visit from Santa at Chiswick House! Immerse yourself in the magic of the season as Santa invites you to his enchanting grotto, sharing a heartwarming Christmas tale.
Children can delight in a special story session with Santa in a small group, followed by a chance to capture a photo with Santa and receive a Christmas gift—provided they’ve been good this year!
Dates are yet to be released, keep an eye here for further information!
Where: Chiswick House and Gardens, Hogarth Lane, London
The Grinch Grotto
The Grinch Grotto is a delightful alternative way to indulge in the Christmas festivities. Hosted by Hans & Gretel in Camden, step into the mischievous world of the Grinch and his whimsical festive experience.
There will be interactive performances, whimsical decorations and delightful surprises. This Grinchmas is not to be missed!
This experience is available from 23rd -24th and the 30th of November and 1st, 7th-8th, 14th-15th & 18th-24th of December 2024
Find more details and book the Grinch Grotto here.
The North Pole Express
The North Pole Express is a festive double-decker bus offering a one-of-a-kind festive journey through London’s iconic streets. Visit some of London’s illuminated popular locations and get into the holiday spirit.
This is a memorable and magical way for families and friends to connect and make memories this festive season. This is a 70 minute journey, with story-telling elves and cozy carol sing alongs.
Enjoy locations such as Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street and the London Eye.
Click here for more information and bookings
Winter By The River
Winter by the River at London Bridge City is a festive event that runs along the scenic banks of the Thames near iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and City Hall.
It features beautifully decorated cabins selling artisanal gifts, delicious street food, and seasonal drinks like mulled wine and spiced cider, alongside family-friendly activities like workshops and storytelling sessions.
Where: London Bridge City, along the banks of the River Thames, near landmarks like Tower Bridge and City Hall.
When: From 15th November 2024 to 2nd January 2025
Covent Garden
Covent Garden has lots going on this year, and the iconic decorations are even bigger and better than before, including the incredible festive photo opportunity below.
Parents can sip the mulled wine and stroll in the traditional Christmas village. It is a great shopping area for designer brands and plenty of great restaurants in the area.
Last year saw Convent Garden change its design scheme for the first time in over a decade. Bringing Christmas Magic to Covent Garden again this year, expect a dazzling display of decorations.
Festive Thursdays will happen during November and December with late-night shopping, specials, happy hours and live performances.
Find out more information about Covent Garden here.
Transport Museum London
The London Transport museum is having an array of thrilling family activities this festive season and continuing until the New Year.
Cosy up for Christmas tales in the den, let your creativity take flight with holiday crafts inspired by wintry posters, and navigate through the galleries on a story trail.
Kids will love hopping onto Santas sleigh inspired by the iconic Routemaster, where they can illuminate headlights, ring the bell, and set the Christmas cheer-o-meter abuzz!
All festive family activities are complimentary with your tickets – and kids get in for free!
The winter festivities are kicking off on Saturday 24th November and Santa will be at the Museum from Mondays – Fridays from 24 November – 15 December (during term time)
Santa will be in the Museum between 11:00 and 15:00.
Aldgate Winter Festival
The Aldgate Winter Festival is returning for it’s fourth year in a row, building on the foundations of community and joy it has brought to previous Winters in London.
The themes of “hope, nature and light” will be explored and celebrated. This year will be a lantern festival, with displays running at three different sites.
Expect wellbeing sessions, festive singers and creative workshops. There will also be online events running.
It will run from 7th – 20th of December 2024.
Find out more information on the Aldgate Winter Festival here.
Thames Rocket – Jingle Bell Blast
The closest thing to riding in Santas sleigh this Christmas in London with kids has to be the Thames Rocket Jingle Bell blast!
Hold on to your Santa hat as you speed’ down the Thames past some of Londons top sights such as the London Eye, The Shard and London Bridge to name a few.
Plus on Saturdays only Santa will be joining the Thames Rocket so you will meet the man himself!
For tickets for the Thames Rocket click here
Visit Hamley’s Toy Shop
Christmas in London with kids would not be complete without a visit to Hamleys! The store has a ton of fun for kids of all ages, all year round. They are sure to have amazing events before unveiling their special Christmas displays.
They also set up a Santa’s Grotto with loads of activities for the kids. You can take the opportunity to get your Christmas shopping for your kids while you’re there.
Watch a Christmas Movie
As soon as it is December many families put on their favourite Christmas movie. The Floating Film Festival is getting families in the Christmas spirit at St. Katharine Docks.
The schedule of Christmas film screenings has not been announced at the time of writing, please check the website to keep updated.
Tickets last year were £15 for a single deckchair and £30 for a sofa for two (plus booking fees). During the screening, there are mince pies, mulled wine and hot chocolate provided.
Outdoor Cinema
Cosy up in a blanket under a crisp evening and enjoy The Marlborough, Richmond’s outdoor cinema. It is nestled under gazebos, with popcorn, cushions, mulled wine and the Christmas Classic Movies.
Book tickets here and find out more information.
Rivoli Pop Up Cinema
The Rivoli Pop-Up Cinema is running some Christmas classic movies, with 2 Home Alone movies and Elf to get you in the festive spirit.
Find out more information here.
Wizard Afternoon Tea
The Wizard Exploratorium is holding a Wizard’s Afternoon Tea for kids of all ages. There are two experiences to choose from. One is for children 11 and older and the other is for under 11s.
There will be a range of delicious treats available and the whole experience is interactive as kids get to make their own brew.
Find out all about the afternoon tea here.
Christmas Baking
Baking is a fantastic way to get into the Christmas spirit. You could try your hand at cookies or you could even attempt a gingerbread house. There are plenty of sets that you could purchase online, check this one out here, if you don’t know where to start.
However, if you have some expert bakers in your home, then you may enjoy The Big London Bake. In fact, no experience is necessary and kids can even tag along.
You have 90 minutes to whip something up. Clear instructions are given, but teams are encouraged to use their imagination. The best creation walks away with a prize.
Christmas Train Rides
At this time of year, there are Christmas train rides around the London area and the rest of the UK.
We are awaiting details for upcoming Christmas train rides and will do our best to keep you updated and amend the post as needed.
Where to Stay During Christmas in London with Kids
If families are in London for a few days, they may be looking for the best place to stay. London has hotels in all shapes and sizes and there is something to suit all budgets.
Below is just a few of the family-friendly hotels in London.
Luxury Family Hotels in London
A hotel that comes highly recommended is the Athenaeum Hotel. It is located in Mayfair and overlooks Green Park, Buckingham Palace. It is a short walk from the West End and Oxford Street shops.
The 5-star hotel offers luxurious and contemporary rooms, suites and apartments so there is plenty to choose from when spending Christmas in London with kids.
It is a family-run hotel and they take care of the little guests as well as the parents. Some of the services they offer are food for the ducks in the park next door and milk and cookies at bedtime.
Parents can enjoy the spa with a range of treatments or take advantage of the childminding service.
The British restaurant is well known, however, there is also a menu to keep little ones happy. There are family rooms available and also apartments that sleep up to ten.
Check out the Athenaeum Hotel here.
Family Hotels on the Thames
The River Thames is stunning to look at and Sea Containers London is located right on the banks. The hotel is close to the London Eye, the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The rooms are modern and some have breathtaking views of London.
On site there is a cinema where families can watch some well-loved films. There is also a spa for parents to enjoy. The hotel is a travel sustainable property and takes many steps to stay environmentally friendly.
Click here for rates and availability at Sea Containers London.
Hotels with Children’s Activities in London
Another travel-sustainable property in the area is Rubens At The Palace. It is a luxury five-star hotel opposite Buckingham Palace and is in a superb location.
The hotel has a director of fun who organises activities for the children staying at the hotel.
If parents are dining at the restaurant, children can eat free from the children’s menu. There is a turn down service provided on request and a gift is left for children.
For the best rates at Ruben At The Palace click here.
Mid Range Family Hotels in London
Country Hotels in London
The Georgian House Hotel is a little bit of English countryside in the city. Families love the location as it is 800 m from London Victoria Station and Hyde Park is just 3.2km away. The hotel was built in 1851 and has retained many of its original features.
Harry Potter fans can request to stay in the Wizard Chambers. The room is decorated in the style of the bedrooms from the film.
There are plenty of magical experiences to enjoy at the hotel including potion making and afternoon tea with a twist.
Check out more information about The Georgian House Hotel here.
Four Star Family Hotels in London
Best Western Mornington Hotel is close to many tube stations. One of the closest is Paddington Station. The hotel has 19th-century architecture and it was recently refurbished. For families in town for Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park is close by.
The family rooms at the hotel sleep up to four with a double bed and a sofa bed. The rooms have tea and coffee facilities and onsite there is a fitness centre for sports-minded parents.
Check out availability for Best Western Mornington here.
Hotels near the Museums in London
The Bailey’s Hotel London Kensington has several luxurious rooms including luxury family rooms with two double beds. Along with being spacious, the rooms have great views of the city. On-site the restaurant serves dishes from Singapore, China and Malaysia.
Families can explore the museums and will love the location as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum are all within a 10-minute walk. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are within walking distance and it’s a stone’s throw from the Gloucester Road Tube Station.
For more information about The Bailey’s Hotel click here.
Budget Family Hotels in London
The Gresham Hotel is for families looking for good value while in a great location. It is just 200m from Paddington Station, perfect for exploring central London. If families want to walk to some attractions, the hotel is 15 minutes from Hyde Park and Oxford Street.
The rooms are simple yet functional and there are rooms that sleep up to four. Some rooms have a mini-fridge and tea and coffee making facilities.
atOne thing to note is the Wi-Fi is only available in communal areas. If kids want to watch Netflix before bed they would need to be downloaded before arriving at the hotel.
To book a room at The Gresham Hotel click here.
Family Hotels in London
The House of Toby is in Camden, 700m from King’s Cross Theatre. The decor is modern and while the rooms may be small, they are comfortable. Family rooms sleep three or four and have good views of the city.
Breakfast is given in the form of a breakfast pack and contains a carton of orange juice, a muffin, 1 piece of fruit, a yoghurt bar and a mint.
Even though the hotel is close to King’s Cross, there are many places guests can walk to. The British Museum is around 1km from the hotel so about a twenty-minute walk.
Find more information about The House of Toby here.
Budget Friendly Family Hotels in London
For a hotel a little away from the centre, The Novotel London Excel is a great choice. It is a 4-star hotel just 150 m from the ExCeL Exhibition Centre and close to the O2 arena, Canary Wharf and London City Airport. The hotel is modern and the restaurant has views of the Royal Victoria Dock and London skyline.
On-site there is a fitness centre and a sauna to relax in after exploring London. The family rooms are a good size and can sleep up to four with a double bed and sofa.
Check out deals for the Novotel London Excel here.
Have you got involved in any other festive activities this year for Christmas in London with kids?
Make sure to share with us all in the comments.
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Sheena Pietzold
Tuesday 22nd of October 2019
Thank you for the information. How long of a wait was it to visit Santa at Covent Garden? Is it worth spending money to reserve a spot somewhere?
Karen
Tuesday 22nd of October 2019
It really depends on what day you plan to visit. if it's a weekend I would say yes, if you are going mid-week, you'll probably be ok