Things to Do in London in December
Christmas markets, ice rinks and the city at its most magical
December is London at its most magical. The whole city glitters — Christmas lights arc over the West End streets, the shop windows dazzle, and Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland brings fairground rides, markets and an ice rink to the heart of town. Open-air rinks appear at Somerset House, the Natural History Museum and beyond, carol services fill the great cathedrals with candlelight and song, and the festive markets along the South Bank and in Leicester Square scent the air with mulled wine and roasting chestnuts. It all builds to the spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks over the Thames. Cold and busy, yes — but unforgettable.
Weather
Cold and dark, with highs around 8°C and the chance of frost. Wrap up warm for long spells outdoors at the markets and rinks.
Daylight
The shortest days of the year around the solstice on 21 December, with sunset before 4pm — but the festive lights more than compensate.
What's on in December
The annual events and traditions that return to London every December.
Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park's vast festive playground brings fairground rides, an ice rink, markets and live entertainment through the season.
Ice rinks and markets
Skating at Somerset House and the Natural History Museum, plus Christmas markets on the South Bank and in Leicester Square, define the December calendar.
New Year's Eve fireworks
The capital sees in the new year with a spectacular ticketed fireworks display over the London Eye and the Thames.
Seasonal ideas for December
Go ice skating
The open-air rinks in historic settings are the quintessential London December experience — book a timed slot ahead.
Hear carols by candlelight
St Paul's, Westminster Abbey and Southwark Cathedral hold atmospheric festive services through the month.
Guides to read this December
Planning your December visit
- Book Winter Wonderland, ice rinks and NYE fireworks tickets well in advance.
- The West End is extremely busy in December — travel off-peak where you can.
- Dress for the cold: you'll spend a lot of time outdoors at the markets.