How to Spend a Family-Friendly Christmas in London with Kids in 2025

Plan a magical 2025 family Christmas in London with kids, from markets to skating to Santa, all easily accessible from St. Pancras International.

How to Spend a Family-Friendly Christmas in London with Kids in 2025

There’s nowhere like London for a family Christmas. Starting your visit at St Pancras International keeps things simple: you’ll step straight off the train into one of the city’s most festive spots.

With so much for children to experience, it’s all about finding the fun without the rush. This guide brings together the best family Christmas activities in London for 2025, each one chosen for convenience and atmosphere. We’ve done the planning for you, including only the best kid-friendly Christmas events to keep journeys short and spirits high.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

St Pancras x GOSH Christmas Tree_005

Supporting families with the St. Pancras International Christmas Tree 2025

Your family’s London Christmas starts the moment you arrive at St. Pancras International. Beneath the station’s Victorian arches stands our famous Christmas Tree, a seasonal must-see for travellers young and old. Over the years, we’ve collaborated with leading brands and charities to design one-of-a-kind trees, including Disney, Cirque Du Soleil, Wicked, and ZSL London Zoo. This year’s creation is extra special, celebrating the work of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity who support countless families spending Christmas in hospital.

The 2025 theme, “Powered by Dreams”, is inspired by the hopes and wishes of seriously ill children, transforming the concourse into a celebration of compassion and childhood imagination. The 12-metre-tall tree draws on the nostalgia of music boxes, with immersive musical booths, dream windows, and an interactive clockwork winder that little ones will love to explore. Hand-painted baubles, based on artworks by GOSH children, spiral up to a spinning illuminated ballerina at the top, and donation points built into the base make it easy to support the charity’s work while you’re here.

Take a few minutes to stop beneath the tree before you set off. Children can spot the tiny hidden details and enjoy the music, while grown-ups can enjoy a coffee from the concourse cafés or a glass of fizz at Searcys. It’s an easy, uplifting first moment that sets the tone for your trip.

Best places to see Christmas lights in London with kids 2025

Forget long Christmas light walking trails: no parent wants to herd tired children across half of London at bedtime. Instead, we’ve chosen three easy, family-friendly spots where you can see the city’s best Christmas lights without the countless steps. Each one is pram-friendly and simple to reach from St Pancras International.

Coal Drops Yard and Granary Square

Where: King’s Cross, N1C

Why go: Just a short walk from St Pancras, the canalside lights at Coal Drops Yard are among the most relaxed ways to enjoy London’s Christmas atmosphere. The fountains at Granary Square glow after dark, and the courtyard features a 50-foot Christmas tree, art installations, and live music on weekends. It’s compact, free, and ideal for younger children.

Getting there: 5-8 minutes’ walk from St Pancras International via Pancras Square.

Highspeed tip: Be sure to explore the festive food stalls of Canopy Market, selling gingerbread and mince pies.

Christmas Lights Bus Tour: London by Night 2025

Where: Departures from the London Eye, Victoria, and Green Park

Why go: For families who want to see London’s classic Christmas lights in comfort, this open-top bus tour is a relaxed way to take it all in. Over 90 minutes, you’ll pass Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, and the London Eye, all decked out for Christmas 2025. An expert guide keeps the journey lively with stories, fun facts, and city history told in a way that keeps kids listening.

Tickets: From £14 for children and £26 for adults, with family tickets available (two adults and two children). Book through VisitLondon.com.

Getting there: Take the Northern line from King’s Cross St Pancras to Waterloo (12 minutes) for the London Eye departure point.

Highspeed tip: Keep an eye out for Soho’s community light panels on your journey, designed by local primary school children for the fifth year running (12 November – 5 January).

Christmas at Kew

Where: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, TW9

Why go: A family favourite for good reason. Kew Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland each year, with illuminated tunnels, glowing sculptures, and a gentle circular route perfect for little ones. There’s space to roam, music in the trees, and stalls selling hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows.

Tickets: Family tickets available for £98 (two adults and two children). Tickets always sell out, so book early via the Kew Gardens website to avoid disappointment.

Getting there: This one’s slightly further out, but very much worth the journey. Take the Victoria line from King’s Cross to Victoria, then an Overground train to Kew Gardens (around 35 minutes total).

Highspeed tip: Stop halfway for churros or a mulled drink at the lakeside food stalls.

Family London page

Best things to do in London with kids at Christmas 2025

London at Christmas is full of family-friendly activities, from ice skating to festive funfairs. All of these experiences are within easy reach of St. Pancras International, chosen for short journeys and guaranteed family fun.

1. Christmas at the British Library

Where: Euston Road, NW1

Why go: Just a few minutes’ walk from St Pancras International, the British Library transforms into a festive family hub each December. Expect creative workshops, storytelling sessions, and themed displays for children, often tied to classic tales. Parents can browse the Treasures Gallery or gift shop.

Getting there: Walk 2 minutes from St Pancras International.

Highspeed tip: Check the library’s events page for free Christmas reading events. They book fast but are great for kids.

2. Christmas lights canal tour by London Canal Museum

Where: London Canal Museum, 12-13 New Wharf Road, N1

Why go: Just a short walk from St Pancras International, the London Canal Museum offers a unique festive experience with its King’s Cross Lights by Water event. On select December evenings, the museum stays open late, providing short boat trips along the Regent’s Canal to view the local Christmas lights from the water. It’s a magical way to see the area illuminated and learn about its rich canal history. Plus, there’s hot chocolate served on board!

Tickets: Tickets are available on the Canal Museum website.

Getting there: Walk approximately 5 minutes from St Pancras International to the museum.

Highspeed tip: Combine your boat trip with a visit to the museum’s exhibitions on canal history and ice trade. Tickets include both the boat trip and museum entry, making it a great value for families.

3. Club Curling at Coal Drops Yard

Where: Coal Drops Yard, N1C

Why go: A family favourite returns for 2025: Club Curling transforms Coal Drops Yard into an outdoor curling rink, open daily from November to early January. Surrounding stalls serve mulled wine and churros to keep everyone warm.

Tickets: £9 off-peak and £12-peak options are available on the King’s Cross website.

Getting there: Walk 5-8 minutes from St. Pancras International via Granary Square.

Highspeed tip: Kids play free with a paying adult!

4. Neverland at Kenwood

Where: Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath, NW3

Why go: Running from 21 November 2025 to 3 January 2026, Neverland at Kenwood is one of London’s most imaginative Christmas nights out. Glowing installations lead you along Tinkerbell’s fairy-dust trail from the Darlings’ London home to the magic of Neverland. Venture through the Lost Boys’ secret tree trunk, cross the misty waters of Crocodile Creek, and come face to face with Captain Hook’s legendary pirate ship. Dramatic lighting and sound design bring J.M. Barrie’s story to life, while street food stalls and hot chocolate vendors make it easy to pause and warm up along the way.

Tickets: Family tickets available for £88 (two adults and two children) through the Kenwood House website. £1 from every ticket will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Getting there: Take the Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Hampstead (14 minutes), then a 10-minute walk through the Heath.

Highspeed tip: Wrap up warm and bring wellies if it’s been raining, as the trail is outdoors.

5. Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

Where: Hyde Park, W2 2UH

Why go: For immersive festive fun, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest Christmas attraction. Children can explore Santa Land, try gentle rides, and visit themed play zones, while parents enjoy the ice bar and seasonal food stalls.

Tickets: Entry is £5 and available on the Winter Wonderland website. Note that rides and some attractions cost extra.

Getting there: Victoria Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Green Park (6 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to Hyde Park.

Highspeed tip: This year, children’s TV megastar Justin Fletcher is performing his favourite Christmas songs live! Be sure to book tickets ahead of time.

6. Best ice skating rinks in London with kids

Skating is one of the best family Christmas activities in London, and these rinks combine easy access and fun for all ages.

Highspeed tip: Bring gloves! They’re mandatory for under-12s at most rinks.

Somerset House (WC2R)

London’s most famous rink, set in a grand courtyard with a towering Christmas tree. Family sessions, skate aids, and a rinkside café make it ideal for children.

Tickets: Prices start at £11 and are available on the Somerset House website.

Getting there: 10 minutes (Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Covent Garden or Holborn, then walk about 10 minutes down Aldwych).

Canary Wharf Ice Rink (E14)

A covered rink surrounded by lights and music, perfect for all-weather skating. Families can refuel with wood-fired pizza and gourmet burgers from nearby pop-ups.

Tickets: Children can skate for £16.95, and tickets are available on the Canary Wharf website.

Getting there: 25 minutes (Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Bank, DLR to Canary Wharf).

Glide at Battersea Power Station (SW11)

Riverside skating beside the Power Station’s famous chimneys, with a traditional Christmas carousel and private igloos available for hire.

Tickets: Family discounts apply to tickets which are available on the Glide website.

Getting there: 20 minutes (Victoria Line to Battersea Power Station).

7. Greenwich Market and the Cutty Sark

Where: King William Walk, SE10

Why go: A perfect half-day trip, Greenwich Market is one of London’s oldest covered markets, filled with handmade toys, decorations, and sweet stalls. Just outside, the legendary Cutty Sark ship hosts storytelling and craft sessions for children, alongside festive deck tours and hot chocolate with a view of the Thames.

Getting there: Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to London Bridge, then the DLR to Cutty Sark (30 minutes total).

Highspeed tip: Visit on a Saturday morning to catch the street musicians near the market entrance.

8. See a family pantomime in London 2025

No Christmas in London is complete without a pantomime.
The 2025 season includes:

  • Sleeping Beauty at the London Palladium (from 6 December 2025): tickets here.
  • Wicked Witches at the Pleasance Theatre (from 21 November 2025): tickets here.
  • Jack and the Beanstalk at Lyric Hammersmith (from 15 November 2025): tickets here.

Highspeed tip: Matinée showings work well for families, leaving plenty of time for an early dinner afterwards.

9. The Twelfth Night of Christmas at Chiswick House

Where: Chiswick House, W4

Why go: New for 2025, Chiswick House opens its doors for the first time at Christmas, transforming the grand Georgian villa into an immersive experience inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas. Families can wander through the historic rooms on a self-guided adventure featuring partridges, pear trees and everything in between. Each space tells part of the story with theatrical sets, floral installations, and soundscapes that bring the famous carol to life. Children will love spotting the scenes as they go.

Tickets: Prices start at £14 and you can book in advance on the Chiswick House website.

Getting there: Take the Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Turnham Green (25 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to Chiswick House.

Highspeed tip: Book an afternoon slot as the natural light adds to the atmosphere, and you can finish with hot chocolate at the on-site café.

10. Free things to do in London with kids at Christmas

Not everything in London has to cost a fortune. These are some of the best free family Christmas activities in London 2025, all easy to access from St Pancras:

Trafalgar Square Carol Singing (9–23 Dec)

Join one of London’s most heartwarming Christmas events as choirs perform beneath the Trafalgar Square tree from 9 December 2025. It’s lively, easy for kids to enjoy, and perfectly timed for some early evening entertainment.

Getting there: Take the Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Piccadilly Circus (11 minutes), then walk from there.

Highspeed tip: Bring hot chocolate and arrive just before dusk to watch the lights come on as the carols begin.

Tate Modern at Christmas

Perfect for curious minds, the Turbine Hall installations are popular with children of all ages. Plus, the river views from the café terrace are unmatched.

Getting there: Take the Thameslink from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Blackfriars and walk to the gallery from there (14 minutes total).

Highspeed tip: Stop at the gift shop for creative Christmas stocking fillers.

Winter by the River, London Bridge City

Set along the Thames with views of Tower Bridge and The Shard, Winter by the River is one of London’s most family-friendly festive markets. Kids can explore wooden cabins selling crafts and sweets while parents enjoy waffles, hot chocolate, and skyline views. It’s free to enter.

Getting there: Take the Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to London Bridge (around 9 minutes), then walk along the riverside between Hay’s Galleria and Tower Bridge.

Highspeed tip: Visit early, then head outside to catch the Trafalgar Square carol singing.

Best places in London to see Santa Claus at Christmas in 2025

1. Father Christmas at Kenwood House

Where: Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath, NW3 7JR

Why go: On weekends from 29 November – 21 December 2025, Father Christmas tells stories by the Christmas tree at Kenwood House. Each child receives a small traditional gift to unwrap. Spaces are limited, so booking ahead is essential.

Tickets: Entry to Kenwood House is free, but there is a charge to meet the man himself, available on the Kenwood website.

Getting there: Take the Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Hampstead (14 minutes), then a 10-minute walk through the Heath.

Highspeed tip: Combine your visit with Neverland to make a full afternoon of it.

2. Noir Kringle: The Black Santa’s grotto experience

Where: The Old Railway Ticket Hall, Shoreditch

Why go: Created by a North London mum in 2018, Noir Kringle offers an inclusive Santa experience celebrating Black representation. Children can make reindeer food, join Elf School, meet Mrs Kringle, eat candy canes, and spend quality time with Santa himself. Each child receives a special gift to take home.

Tickets: On sale via the Noir Kringle website.

Getting there: Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Old Street (5 minutes) and walk from there.

Highspeed tip: Sessions often sell out, so be sure to book as soon as possible.

3. Santa at the London Transport Museum

Where: Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E

Why go: Younger children love the Santa’s Stories sessions at the London Transport Museum, where Father Christmas shares tales of London’s winter journeys. Kids can take part in craft workshops and explore the museum’s vintage vehicles decked out for Christmas.

Tickets: Included with museum admission: book via the London Transport Museum website.

Getting there: Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Covent Garden (10 minutes).

Highspeed tip: Why not call at Ladurée in St. Pancras station for some tasty macarons before your trip!

4. Santa at ZSL London Zoo

Where: Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY

Why go: Santa returns to London Zoo this November and December. Kids can meet him in his magical grotto, take part in festive crafts, and receive an early Christmas gift.

Tickets: Book via the ZSL London Zoo website.

Getting there: Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Camden Town (10 minutes), then a short walk through Regent’s Park.

Highspeed tip: For an extra treat, book the Meet Santa VIP Breakfast, which includes a hot breakfast and private morning zoo tour.

Family London page (1)

Easy Christmas shopping for families in London

Christmas shopping in London with kids can actually be fun, especially when you start at St. Pancras International. With toy shops to explore, treats to taste, and gifts to grab for everyone on your list, you can tick off the essentials before you’ve even left the station.

Start at St Pancras International

Inside the station, you’ll find something for every age and budget. Hamleys has a pop-up shop packed with toys, puzzles, games, and magic tricks – an easy win for younger travellers. Stop by Hatchards for beautifully illustrated storybooks, or Ladurée for a box of pastel macarons to take home as gifts. Parents can browse Fortnum & Mason’s selection of quintessentially British teas, biscuits, and preserves: perfect for stocking fillers.

Highspeed tip: Let the kids pick one small treat from Hamleys to unwrap later on the train. It keeps the journey home just as exciting as the shopping.

Check out our free festive gift guides

If you’re stuck for Christmas present ideas, we’ve got just the thing to help. Our free festive gift guides are full of inspiration, featuring everything from classic children’s toys to easy travel gifts and local finds. Each guide features family-friendly ideas available right here at St Pancras International.

Explore London’s famous toy shops

An easy way to turn a shopping trip into a family win is to frame it as a toy shop adventure. Start at the Hamleys store in St. Pancras International, the most magical toy shop, then continue to the LEGO Store in Leicester Square to see life-sized London landmarks built entirely from bricks and design your own mini figure to take home. End at M&M’s World nearby, with its four colourful floors of chocolate, fun photo spots, and personalised treats that always go down well with kids (and parents).

Where to stay with kids in London at Christmas

When visiting London with children at Christmas, the best hotels balance comfort, convenience and access to the city’s festive attractions. These family-friendly stays all offer easy links from St. Pancras International, while keeping you close to Christmas lights, museums and seasonal attractions. Prices below are for family rooms (two adults and two children) in December 2025 and may vary.

Best London accommodation for families on a budget

Travelodge London Kings Cross Royal Scot: From around £128 per night for a family room.

Spacious family rooms, kids-eat-for-£1 breakfasts, and a five-minute walk from St. Pancras make this a reliable base for exploring London’s Christmas highlights without overspending.

Highspeed tip: Book early for weekend stays, as rooms here go quickly in December.

Best London accommodation for families who like a bit of character

The Megaro Hotel, King’s Cross: From around £315 per night for a family room.

Just across from the station, The Megaro combines bold design with practical family options. Rooms include sofa beds, and the in-house restaurant’s children’s menu keeps mealtimes simple.

Highspeed tip: Ask for a room facing the station. Younger travellers love watching the trains come and go.

Best London accommodation for kids’ attractions

Pullman London St. Pancras: From around £355 per night for a family room.

A modern four-star hotel with family packages that include complimentary breakfast for children and late checkout. Within walking distance of the British Library, Coal Drops Yard and King’s Cross winter pop-ups.

Highspeed tip: Pop by Word on the Water, the nearby floating bookshop, for a memorable bedtime story.

Best London accommodation for a classic family Christmas

St. Pancras London, Autograph Collection: From around £541 per night for a family room.

A landmark above the station that combines Victorian architecture with five-star comfort. Families can enjoy festive afternoon tea in the grand lobby and step straight onto the Eurostar when it’s time to head home.

Highspeed tip: Be sure to visit the grand staircase inside. It’s one of the most recognisable film locations in London.

Best London accommodation for self-catering families

The Suites – St. Pancras Hotel Group: From around £275 per night for a family room.

Just a few minutes’ walk from St. Pancras International, The Suites offer apartment-style living with the flexibility families need during the festive season. Each suite includes a kitchenette: perfect for early breakfasts or quiet evenings after a busy day exploring London’s Christmas attractions.

Highspeed tip: Stock the fridge with snacks from the station’s M&S or Fortnum & Mason to keep you going throughout your stay.

Brussels Christmas Market page (1)

A weekend family Christmas itinerary for London 2025

Travelling to London at Christmas with kids can feel like a balancing act, between the excitement, the crowds, the snacks, and the naps. That’s why we’ve built a family Christmas weekend itinerary that takes the stress out of planning and keeps everyone happy, from toddlers to teens. You’ll see London’s best Christmas lights, markets, and activities, all without overdoing it.

Day 1: arrival and local magic

Morning: Step straight into Christmas the moment you arrive at St. Pancras International. Let the kids spot the details on the GOSH x St. Pancras Christmas tree, then grab hot chocolate and pastries from EL&N Café before heading outside.

Afternoon into evening: Walk eight minutes to Coal Drops Yard, where you can explore the Canopy Market festivities or try Club Curling on Pancras Square (kids skate free). Pop into Word on the Water, the floating bookshop, for a calm moment before a classic Christmas dinner at St. Pancras Bar & Brasserie.

Day 2: lights, skating and Santa Claus

Morning: Grab some pancakes at The Breakfast Club to power your day, then take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden (10 minutes). See the giant Christmas tree, watch the street performers, and pick up festive gifts at the market.

Midday: Head to Somerset House for a family skate session (skate aids available). Warm up afterwards with waffles and hot chocolate at the rink café.

Afternoon: Make your way to Kenwood House for storytime with Father Christmas, followed by a stroll through Neverland at Kenwood, an outdoor Peter Pan-themed experience.

Evening: Return to St. Pancras International for dinner at The German Gymnasium, where big windows and hearty Bavarian dishes make it a hit with families (kids love the pretzels and schnitzel).

Day 3: markets, museums and memories

Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Betjeman Arms, a cosy pub on the Grand Terrace of St. Pancras International.

Midday: If you’re staying longer, visit the British Library’s free family exhibitions just across the road.

Afternoon: End your trip at Winter by the River near London Bridge, where kids can wander riverside stalls and parents can enjoy street food with Thames views.

Evening: Before heading home, pick up a final treat: macarons from Ladurée or a keepsake book from Hatchards, and take one last family photo beneath the St. Pancras Christmas Tree.

Travel tips for parents visiting London at Christmas 2025

Travelling with kids isn’t without its logistical challenges. Here are a few pieces of practical advice from our team, to help you make memories in the most stress-free way possible.

What’s the best area to stay in London with kids at Christmas?

For stress-free travel, stay near St. Pancras International. With many Overground lines, six Underground lines and direct Eurostar connections, it’s one of the best locations for families visiting London at Christmas. You’ll be minutes from top attractions like Covent Garden and Winter Wonderland.

How do I plan family-friendly Christmas activities in London?

Book early for popular attractions like ice skating, Santa’s grottos, and Christmas light trails. Weekend slots and “kids go free” offers sell out fast. Always check each venue’s official website for discounts and accessibility details before your visit.

What should families pack for London at Christmas?

Expect chilly temperatures around 5-8°C with the chance of rain. Bring warm layers, gloves, and compact umbrellas. Most festive events and Christmas markets are outdoors, so waterproof shoes and a small backpack for snacks and wipes will go a long way.

When is the best time of day to explore London at Christmas with kids?

Start early. Mornings are quieter at busy spots like Winter Wonderland or museums, while evenings are ideal for Christmas lights and street performers.

Is there anywhere to drop luggage in London?

Go hands-free by dropping your bags at Excess Baggage Co. in St. Pancras International. It’s ideal if you’re catching a later train, allowing you to enjoy your last few festive hours without carrying everything with you.

The journey home

Whether it was your children’s first trip or an annual Christmas tradition, this guide was built to help you make the most of every minute together in London, and we hope it’s been useful. As your visit comes to a close, St. Pancras International ensures a seamless journey home, with your train just steps away from the festivities.