Skip to Content

30+ Best Things To Do At Christmas In London With Kids

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

London at Christmas
Christmas in London with Kids

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!

Kew Gardens - Christmas In London With Kids
Kew Gardens – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas in London with 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 a booking is required this year.

To find out more information and to buy tickets click here.

SEA LIFE Londo ‘Save Fishmas’

Ready for the festive challenge? Go on a quest to find scattered gifts in Sea Life London. It is a great opportunity for little ones to learn about the world’s oceans and their inhabitants.

Head to Penguin Point to see London’s cute Gentoo Penguins. The stars of the show.

Families have to locate all of the presents hidden throughout the aquarium. Once all the presents have been located participants have the opportunity to win a prize once they unveil the secret message.

The event is running from 16th – 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’s Adventure

Shrek’s Adventure in London 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, offering 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 December 2 to December 24, 2023, and receive a complimentary Christmas card – all included in the standard ticket price!.

The Shrek the Halls experience will be offered on the following dates in December: 2nd-3rd, 9th-10th, and 16th-24th.

Shrek’s Adventure is located on Southbank beside the Sea Life aquarium and the London Eye. Including in the ticket price is a candy treat from Santa and a photo with him.

Book your tickets to Shrek’s Adventure online here.

The London Eye: The Sky Candy Emporium

The London Eye is one of London’s Iconic places to visit. This Christmas they have gone all out with the ultimate confectionery wonderland: The Sky Candy Emporium.

Soar over the capital while immersing yourself in a distinctive chocolate experience. Craft your own Up in the Clouds sherbet cocktail or mocktail, watch it fizz, and magically change colour.

Indulge in a stroll through a pick-n-mix forest, engage with the Candy Lab, and reach up to grab floating candy floss from sugar-filled clouds above your head.

It is the perfect place to take a family selfie.

Tickets include; a customized sky-high candy confectionery wonderland pod makeover, a cocktail or mocktail and a sensory chocolate experience, a goodie bag to carry the experience home, and a more intimate setting with a smaller group of 12 per pod, accompanied by a private host.

The event is only running from 2nd December – 10th December.

Check out this indulgent Christmas Experience at the London Eye.

Tour the 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.

Covent Garden – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas in London with kids

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).

For more information about the Christmas Lights Bus tour click 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.

Christmas in London with kids – (c) Pasco.photography

Ice Palace Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace

The Strand Palace Hotel is to hold a Children’s Christmas afternoon tea in Londons West End. The tea starts from £25 during weekdays and £30 for weekends (up to 12yrs of age) which includes a variety of festive fare and live entertainment.

Christmas In London with Kids

Make sure to try the hand-crafted snowman cake and 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.

Hampton Court Palace

This year Hampton Court Palace will be transformed into a food lovers Christmas Wonderland from the 02-04 December.

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.

Festive Fayre Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace – Christmas in London with Kids

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 complimentary Christmas family workshops over the Christmas period. As the excitement builds toward the festive day, children can take part in crafting thank-you cards using seeded paper—an everlasting gift that transforms from a card today into a meadow of wildflowers tomorrow!

Embrace the spirit of giving this Christmas by creating nature-inspired gifts, from pine cone feeders to bug hotels.

Christmas in London with Kids

These workshops will be taking place every weekend starting from Saturday, December 2nd, and daily from Thursday, December 21st, to Sunday, January 7th

(excluding activities on December 26th and January 1st). Workshop times are at 11 am and 2 pm

Participation is free, and activities are included with admission and/or membership.

St Martins Lane West End Light Display

The iconic West End of Londons theatre district will be switching on its Christmas Light displays across the cultural district this year.

The entertainment hotspots of Leicester square, St Martins Lane and Piccadilly will be illuminating the streets with festive dazzle.

The St Martins Lane display kicks off a host of festive activities in the area from award winning theatre productions (see below) to delicious Christmas food and drink offerings in the many eateries of the West End.

West-End-christmas-Lights
Christmas In London with Kids

The lights will be on display daily from 3:30pm – 11pm and consist of eight million twinkly LED light bulbs.

More information can be found here.

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.

Christmas in London with kids
Ice Skating – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Ice Skating In The West End

Londons new festive ice skating rink is open to the public located in Hanover Square, London, W1S 1JA.

Skate gracefully on the specially crafted elliptical rink, whilst enjoying the historic surroundings. After visitors can enjoy a sip or a hot beverage at the charming seasonal bar located at the square’s center.

Skate West End – Hanover Square

Whether for post-work enjoyment, a special date night, or a break from the holiday shopping hustle, make Skate West End your festive highlight.

04 November – 01 January

Tickets from £10.50

This year there are also outdoor ice rinks at Hampton Court Palace, and Hyde Park.

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.

Christmas in London with Kids

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.

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.

Christmas in London with Kids

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 Theatre Royal Stratford East.

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.

Elf The Musical

Back by popular demand, this Christmas favourite is ready to sweep onto the stage of London’s West End this Christmas, delivering its distinctive mix of comedy, music, and holiday joy to the city.

The story follows Buddy, who, after accidentally ending up in Santa’s bag as a baby, grows up among Santa’s helpers.

Elf – Christmas In London with kids

Following his journey back to New York to find his real family, chaos ensues! Along the way, he encounters a variety of lively characters, spreading holiday cheer wherever he ventures.

ELF The Musical is playing at the Dominion Theatre, close to Tottenham court Road.

There are two screening times 2:30pm and 7:30pm with the show lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes including the 15 minute interval.

The show is recommended for children five years and older, for more information and tickets click here.

Stick Man at Leicester Square Theatre

On the 21 October 2023 – 2 January 2024 Stick Man has some fun on stage at Leicester Square Theatre. The story is based on the book by Julia Donaldson.

As Stick Man tries to find his way home to his family for Christmas there is puppetry, live music, and groovy moves on his adventure. The show has limited availability and is likely to sell out soon.

Stick Man – Christmas in London with kids

The show is less than an hour so great for little ones who can’t sit still for long.

Ticket prices start at £23.40 with children under 18 Months going free

Check out the dates and times for Stick Man here.

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 times from the 30th November

Monday – 11am & 1.30pm 
Tuesday – 11am & 1.30pm 
Wednesday – No performances 
Thursday – 11am & 1.30pm 
Friday – 11am & 1.30pm 
Saturday – 10.30am 
Sunday – 10.30am, 1pm & 3.30pm 
Performances over Christmas and New Year – check when booking, full schedule to be confirmed closer to the date.

Find out more information and tickets about Peppa Pig Fun Day Out click here.

Aladdin

Embark on a fantastical adventure as the beloved story of Aladdin soars into Hackney this holiday season!

Aladdin dreams of love and wealth, and his discovery of an enchanted lamp and encounter with a mysterious genie seems to make his wishes a reality.

However, will they truly come true, or will sinister forces intervene?

Taking place at the Hackney Empire and running from the 18th November all the way through to the 31st of December.

For tickets and more information for Aladdin click here.

Frozen The Musical

Experience the heartwarming tale of love and sisterhood, artfully reimagined in this new west end musical.

Reuniting the two sisters who captured global hearts, the production weaves a fresh enchantment over the West End. It’s emotional, it’s awe-inspiring; it’s sheer delight.

Frozen the musical has a running time of 2hrs and 30 minutes including an interval. In which case there is an age limit for children over 6 years old. Children under 4 will not be admitted.

Performance times : From 18 October 2023 – Wednesday – Friday 7pm, Thursday 2pm and Saturday 2.30pm & 7pm & Sunday 1pm & 5.30pm

Theatre Royal Drury Lane : Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF

For tickets and more information click here.

Five Star Family Hotels in London
Shopping – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas In London with Kids

Wembley Park Festive Market

Wembley Park is hosting an extensive lineup of free seasonal activities events and offers this festive season.

Starting Saturday the 2nd December will be the areas first ever Festive Market featuring lots to explore and browse for distinctive artisan goods. With live music, entertainment and all the classic Christmas tunes.

Christmas Market in Wembley Park Photo credit: Chris Winter / Wembley Park

Other activities include 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 Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square Christmas market, Hyde Park and Greenwich Market.

Southbank Christmas 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.

Christmas in London with Kids – (c) Pasco photography

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.

Christmas in London with kids
Christmas Markets – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas in London with kids

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

Christmas in London with kids

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.

Lightopia at Crystal Palace

Lightopia returns to Crystal Palace Park this year. Lightopia is an award-winning light show that brings the history of the park to life. There are interactive displays and a Christmas walk.

Kids love the interactive lanterns, colourful lasers and water shows.

It is a light show not to be missed as the famous Crystal Palace Park’s dinosaurs are brought to life along with many other magical creatures

Check out the website for more information.

London Museum of Water and Steam

For a fun filled family day out head to the London Museum of Water and Steam this festive season.

Featuring hands on exhibits, splash zones, the waterworks gallery and a host of interactive play exhibits to cater to all age groups.

Mrs Claus and Santa himself will be making guest appearances on the 16th and 17th of December to the museum, stopping by to take photos and giving out presents! Tickets can be purchased 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.

There will be free festive storytelling classes at the Museum on the 11th and 18th December perfect for families.

The Victorian Walk and Sailortown galleries will be festively decorated throughout December, so you can travel back in time to experience a Victorian London Christmas.

For the family, head on a trail to find all the magical events taking place ‘Celebrating the City in Winter’.

With this free downloadable map, families can explore festive events and attractions located around the Museum of London such as Leadenhall Market to the Barbican.

Check out the website for more information.

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 as follow : 25 & 26 November and the 2,3,9,10,16,17,18,19,20,21 & 22 of December

£12.50 per child

Chiswick House and Gardens, Hogarth Lane, London

Go to KidZania

Head to KidZania London between 2 December 2023 and the 7th January 2024 for some festive fun this year for the Ultimate Elfmas Experience .

The Elfmas Experience includes exclusive access to secret craft workshops and Santa’s Post Room as well as a variety of added extras to make the day even more memorable.

Extra charges apply and access to the exclusive experience is limited to a small number of visitors each day.

Expect the experience to last around five hours including exploring the rest of the City. If kids are over eight, parents are free to drop them off and go Christmas shopping.

To book a ticket to KidZania click here.

Christmas in London with Kids
KidsZania – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas in London with kids
Santa’s Grotto – Christmas in London with Kids

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.

Christmas in London in Kids

The enchanting Wonder Wood display returns this year, bringing Christmas Magic to Covent Garden. 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.

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.

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!

Christmas In London with Kids

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.

Visit Hogwarts

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.

Think towering snow covered Christmas trees in the great hall to meticulously decorated Diagon Alley with its snowy shop fronts and cobbled pathways.

(Unfortunately tickets to the event below have sold out for 2023)

An extra special after-hours event is planned including a Christmas dinner in the great hall.

Hogwarts in the snow - christmas in london with kids
Hogwart’s – Christmas in London with Kids

You and your kids will get to experience a two-course Christmas dinner sitting at house tables surrounded by wizarding Christmas decor.

When your 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.

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 your sped down the Thames past some of Londons top sights such as the London Eye, The Shard and London Bridge to name a few.

Christmas in London with Kids

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 Hamleys 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.

Wizard Afternoon Tea At The Wizard Exploratorium

The venue is also holding a Wizards 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 is a range of yummy treats available and the whole experience is interactive as kids get to make their own brew.

Christmas in London with Kids

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 in London with Kids

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.

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.

Christmas in London with Kids

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 orginal 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. Thre 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. One 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.

You May Also Like:

French Christmas Markets

The 17 Most Epic Christmas Market Trips You Can Take This Winter

Santa’s Lapland

CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN STUGGART &; SURROUNDING AREA

Christmas Train Rides UK

30 Of The Best Family Hotels London

London with a toddler

16 Incredible Things to do in February Half Term London 2023

Free things to do in London with kids

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. By using them it will not cost you any extra, we will receive a small percentage of the sale. 

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