Christmas is a truly enchanting time to visit the city. There’s a certain magic that can be felt throughout December. The lights are brighter, smiles are larger, and London attractions look even more beautiful than usual. Read our guide for a full run-down of recommended activities.
Is Christmas a good time to visit London?
Yes, December can be a good time to visit London. The weather gets cold in the city with an average temperature of 7ºC and the city is all decked up in Christmas decorations, making it ideally suitable for all visitors.
What is Christmas like in London?
Christmas in London has a certain kind of timeless appeal. Throughout the holiday season, trees stand silhouetted in the windows of Georgian townhouses; the pubs are cozy and packed, no matter the time of day; and fireplaces flicker within the city’s grand hotels and bustling restaurants.
Is it worth visiting London in December?
December in London is also an incredibly popular place to be during the holidays, so expect the streets to be crowded with both English and international tourists. And no matter when you travel, you should pack an umbrella: London is notorious for experiencing misty days and showers year-round.
Is London or Paris better for Christmas?
After spending Christmas in London, I can confidently say London is one of the BEST destinations in Europe for Christmas and should be near the top of the list. London blew Paris out of the water when it came to decorations and Christmas lights.
Is London Expensive during Christmas?
London is the second most expensive European capital for Christmas holidays – Reykjavik is first. [PRESS RELEASE] According to hotel search engine www.travelmyth.co.uk, Reykjavik is the most expensive European capital for Christmas holidays.
How do people dress in London in December?
Winter is cold. The key is to wear lots of layers (especially if you don’t fancy bringing along a heavy winter coat), drink plenty of tea, and be prepared for the possibility of snow. When planning what to pack for London, choose tights, leggings, knee-high socks, and thermals like these for extra warmth.
Is London too cold in December?
Winters in London are characterised by cold and often rainy weather. The average high between December and February is 48°F (9°C) and the average low is 41°F (5°C). However, freezing temperatures are not uncommon and snow is not unheard of. Be sure to pack a winter coat along with a hat, gloves and scarf.
Is London quiet on Christmas Day?
Central London on Christmas Day is so quiet, it’s almost like a scene from a movie, so what better time to go on a bike ride around the city? It’s the one day of the year where you can see the capital at its quietest.
Where is the most Christmassy place in London?
Christmas in London: The Best Places to See and Photograph the Lights in 2022
- Carnaby Street. Carnaby Street is one of the best places to see Christmas lights in London.
- Natural History Museum.
- Trafalgar Square.
- Covent Garden.
- New Bond Street.
- Regent Street.
- Somerset House.
- Strand.
How many days in London is enough?
For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least four or five days in London, which will give you enough time to get a feel for the city and see many of its main sites. With so much to do and see in London, we’ve come up with some bucket-list suggestions on how you can make the most of your time in London!
Is it worth going to London in winter?
London dazzles year-round, so consider visiting in winter, when airfares and hotel rates are generally cheaper, and tourist crowds are at a minimum. Despite the season’s drearier weather and shorter days, London’s museums, theaters, and pubs always offer a warm, cozy welcome.
Which city is best for Christmas in Europe?
Best Christmas holiday destinations in Europe
- Zagreb, Croatia. A special atmosphere to be experienced! Brussels, Belgium.
- Budapest, Hungary. Festive lights, ice-skating and cultural programs. Vienna, Austria.
- Basel, Switzerland. The prettiest Christmas Markets in Switzerland. Metz, France.
Is London worth it in the winter?
Is London worth visiting in the winter? Yes, November, December, January, and February can all be great times to visit London. While the weather will be cold, January and February can be a good time to visit the city’s top attractions without the crowds.
How can I spend Christmas in London?
- Trafalgar Square: Adore The Biggest Christmas Tree.
- Westminster Abbey: Attend The Best Midnight Mass.
- London: Fill Your Eyes With Christmas Lights.
- Royal Albert Hall: Sing In Sync At The Carol Concert.
- Hyde Park: Celebrate At The Winter Wonderland.
- London: Explore The Hogwarts In The Snow.
Is it crowded in London during Christmas?
Of course, most of London’s attractions and places of interest will be open around Christmas time. As Christmas is very busy for Londoners, British visitors, and international tourists, we strongly recommend you book and reserve your spot at your must-see London attractions. For instance, you can book the following.
How do I not look like a tourist in London?
- Don’t get the Heathrow Express.
- Get your Oyster Card ready.
- Use the Tube – but not too much!
- Don’t use the tourist bus – use these instead.
- Use your phone.
- Avoid Oxford Street.
- Avoid Leicester Square.
- Visit the museums at night.
What shoes do Londoners wear in winter?
Leather boots
Most Londoners, men or women, will spend most of the winter wearing boots, either ankle or knee high. Good waterproof leather fashionable boots are definitely a must and can be worn day or evening.
Does London get snow at Christmas?
We can accurately forecast if snow is likely on any given Christmas Day up to five days beforehand. Since 1960, around half of the years have seen at least 5% of the network record snow falling on Christmas Day. This means we can probably expect more than half of all Christmas Days to be a ‘white Christmas’.
Where should a first time tourist stay in London?
Mayfair is the best area to stay in London for first time visitors to the city because of its proximity to Hyde Park, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. The architecture and tiny side streets also make Mayfair one of the most instagrammable spots in London.
What is the coldest month in London?
The coldest month is usually January when temperatures can sink to around 33 F (1 C). Snow is pretty rare in London but if it does fall it’s typically in January or February.