London in December feels like stepping into a Christmas film: glittering lights everywhere, glamorous window displays and cosy pub nights out with friends before heading home. But when you’re a student, it can feel like the best winter activities are off-limits because of rent, travel, and Christmas shopping. They’re not – London is full of affordable and free Christmas things to do. Whether you want to see lights, ice-skate, visit markets or go clubbing, here is your guide to the best Christmas things to do on a student budget in London 2025.
Light switch-ons
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London’s Christmas light switch-ons are some of the most magical nights of the year, starting early-mid November, and you don’t need to spend a thing to enjoy them!
Carnaby Street usually leads the way, turning on its colourful themed display in early November (this year on Thursday 6th November 2025). It’s one of London’s most iconic streets to see lit up: and it’s completely free to wander through with friends. A quick detour for a cheap hot chocolate can turn it into the perfect student-friendly festive evening.
Just a few days later, Covent Garden follows suit with its switch-on on Wednesday 12th November 2025, complete with a massive Christmas tree, snow showers, and carol singers. Again, completely free and ideal if you want that classic London Christmas vibe for your Instagram feed without paying Hyde Park prices.
Elsewhere, Oxford Street and Regent Street will light up around mid-November, while the West End and Marylebone usually follow the same week. You can make a whole evening of it: walk from Oxford Circus down to Covent Garden and soak in the festive atmosphere without spending more than your travel fare.
Markets, mulled wine and winter walks
Once the lights are on, London’s Christmas markets pop up all over the city. These are ideal for students: you can grab a cheap festive snack, walk around for free, and pick up small gifts without a hefty price tag.
Start with the Southbank Centre Winter Market, which runs from early November until 26th December 2025. It is completely free to enter and right by the river, so you get stunning views of the Thames, fairy lights, and live music. Grab a £5 cup of mulled wine, share churros with a friend, and enjoy a festive evening stroll that costs next to nothing.
Greenwich Market also deserves a mention: it’s smaller and more relaxed, but the Christmas decorations make it feel properly cosy. It is the perfect spot for affordable, handmade gifts if you’ve got Secret Santa to sort before heading home.
And yes – Winter Wonderland is on every tourist’s must do list, but it doesn’t have to break your budget. Entry is free during off-peak hours, and you can still enjoy the lights and festive energy without splashing out on rides or overpriced drinks. Bring your own flask, take photos, and enjoy the free attractions.
Ice skating and cosy evenings
When uni deadlines start wrapping up, treat yourself to something festive but affordable. Ice skating is a must – and there are a few cheaper alternatives to the famous Somerset House rink.
The Canary Wharf Ice Rink offers student tickets from around £10, with LED lights, upbeat music, and a lively atmosphere that feels very Christmassy without being packed with tourists. Over at Battersea Power Station, the rink is smaller but offers off-peak student discounts, making it a great option for a festive date or a cheap afternoon with friends.
If skating isn’t your vibe, go for a cosy movie night instead. The Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square shows Christmas classics like Elf, Love Actually, and Home Alone for around £5 – £7 a ticket – perfect for when you want to feel festive but your student loan says no.
End-of-term club nights
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Once you’ve handed in your final essays, it’s officially party season. December in London is packed with themed club nights that give you all the festive fun without the fancy prices.
One of the biggest events this year is the Boat Club Xmas Party, taking place on Saturday 20th December at Studio 338 in Greenwich. It’s a 12-hour festive rave running from 3pm to 3am, bringing together thousands of partygoers and world-class DJs for a huge pre-Christmas celebration.
Tickets start at around £25, which might sound steep compared to your usual student night, but for a 12-hour event with huge production, it is seriously good value. Grab an early bird ticket, plan your travel home in advance, use public transport or split an Uber with mates to keep costs down.
Free festive finishes
If you’re staying in London until the holidays, you can still soak up the city’s Christmas atmosphere for free. The lights across Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, and Oxford Street stay on until January.
For something more low-key, head to a carol concert at St Martin-in-the-Fields or a local church as many are free or donation-based. Bring a friend, wrap up warm, and you have a peaceful, festive evening that costs less than a coffee.
You don’t need a massive budget to make December magical. London is full of free and affordable Christmas activities – from light switch-ons and river markets to ice-skating and the Boat Club Xmas Party. The trick is planning early and taking advantage of student discounts!
