It’s officially the Christmas season already! Many Christmas-themed events are going on across London for 2023. It’s the capital after all and known for having just about everything from museums and galleries, to historic landmarks, to clubs, bars and restaurants. So it’s only natural it goes all out for Christmas. It’s such an exciting time, full of magic and fun things to do. So whether you’re looking for a Christmas market, a festive show, or something completely different, here are the best Christmas events in London for you.
Kenwood House Christmas Lights
Christmas at Kenwood is back this year with an all-new light trail. Taking place from the 1st of December to the 1st of January, you can walk through the manor and enjoy a festive classic with a contemporary twist. Somewhat unsurprisingly, the cost of a ticket varies depending on the time slot you choose. For a peak time, a ticket is £30. For a standard ticket, you will pay £25.50 per person. And, for an off-peak time slot, a ticket costs £22 per person.
Address: Hampstead Lane, NW3 7JR
There are lots of other amazing Christmas light displays in London so be sure to check them out.
Southbank Winter Market
The Southbank regularly hosts food markets, but their Winter market is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas events in London. It’s free, which already is a plus for us students. It’s open every day from now until the 26th of December (save for Christmas day itself), from 11 am to 10 pm for most of the week and 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. There are pop-up bars, street food stalls, and independent traders. There’s so much to enjoy, all while getting into the Christmas spirit.
Address: Between The Bridges, The Queen’s Walk, SE1
Magic of Christmas
If shows are more of your thing, then there are options for you. On Saturday the 25th of November, Magic Radio is bringing the Magic of Christmas to the London Palladium stage. Currently, artists confirmed to be appearing include Emeli Sandé, Rick Astley, Simply Red and Texas. The cheapest tickets appear to be £62 per person, so… maybe not one for the student budget.
Address: The London Palladium, 8 Argyll Street, W1F 7T
London Christmas Lights Hunt
If you enjoy scavenger hunts, this is the perfect option for you. The London Christmas Lights Hunt starts at Oxford Circus and sends you around London for three hours to solve riddles to help you along the story. With optional breaks along the way and an adrenaline-inducing premise, it’s a great option for a day out with friends. But, you gotta be quick as tickets are selling out quickly. Every day from now until the end of January, there are slots at 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm. Tickets cost £17.50 per person.
Address: Oxford Street, W1B 3AG
Christmas Circus Show
The Aeronaut in Acton is hosting a Christmas Cabaret and Circus show in what proves to be one of the most exciting Christmas events in London this year. All tickets come with admission, a welcome drink, and a three-course festive meal. This means that the tickets are £66 per person, but you’re getting a lot for your money. There’s also an option for a restricted view ticket with a drink for £15 per person. The shows run for a month, from the 17th of November to the 16th of December.
Address: The Aeronaut, 264 Acton High Street, W3 9BH
Christmas at Kew
From the 15th of November to the 7th of January, you can experience the magical Christmas at Kew. The botanical garden is transformed into a winter wonderland with tunnels of light, illuminations and independent street food vendors selling festive food and drink. For non-members, an off-peak ticket costs £22.50 per person and a peak ticket costs £29. If you are a member, this reduces the ticket cost to £19.50 off-peak and £24 peak.
Address: Kew Gardens, TW9 3EG
RnB Xmas Ball
On Sunday the 17th of December, OVO Arena Wembley will be hosting their first-ever RnB Christmas party. The lineup is full of international R&B legends such as Joe, Monica, SWV, and more, with a full live band. It’s a must-see for any R&B fan. Tickets are expensive, starting at £59 (plus fees) and there aren’t many left, so you’ve got to move quickly if you want to secure your spot at the ultimate RnB Christmas celebration.
Address: OVO Arena Wembley, HA9 0AA
Christmas at Eltham Palace
If you’re a South Londoner and want to go to a Christmas lights show like the one at Kenwood House but don’t want to have to cross the river to do so, may I present to you, Christmas at Eltham Palace. It’s run by the same company, so there are a lot of similarities between the two. You can enjoy festive food, warming cocktails, hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows as you step into a magical winter wonderland and a stunning lights display. Tickets are £17.50 per person.
Address: Eltham Palace, SE9 5QE
So, these are some of the best Christmas events in London in 2023. There are fun festive activities throughout the city, from markets to light shows to performances, and many more. Plenty of festive fun to enjoy over the next two months.
If you’re looking for more fun to do with your mates around Christmas time, why not take a look at the best things to do in London for groups?
Last Updated on March 16, 2024
Published on March 22, 2023
A student from University of Nottingham.
