Best Festive Things to Do in London: Your 2025 Christmas Itinerary

Discover the best festive things to do in London this Christmas 2025, from the iconic St. Pancras International Christmas tree to markets, lights, and seasonal experiences across the city.

Best Festive Things to Do in London: Your 2025 Christmas Itinerary

Planning a festive trip to London in 2025? This is your ultimate seasonal guide to the city. We’ve gathered the best things to do in London this Christmas, all within easy reach of St Pancras International.

Arriving at the station means you’re already in the thick of London’s festivities. Between carol concerts and light displays, markets and winter pop-ups, you’ll find a mix of timeless traditions and new experiences to make every moment of your visit unforgettable.

Whether you’re here for 24 hours or a long weekend, this itinerary will help you make the most of London at its most magical.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

 

Where Christmas Begins; the St. Pancras International Christmas Tree

Your London Christmas begins right here at St. Pancras station, beneath our iconic Christmas tree. Our trees of Christmas past have featured collaborations with Fortnum and Mason, Disney, Tiffany and Co., and Hatchards, and this year’s edition promises to be one of our most meaningful yet.

The St. Pancras International Christmas Tree 2025 is created in partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Inspired by the hopes and wishes of seriously ill children, the 2025 theme “Powered by Dreams” transforms the station into a celebration of compassion and childhood imagination. The 12-metre installation draws on the nostalgia of music boxes, with immersive musical booths, dream windows, and an interactive clockwork winder. Hand-painted baubles based on artworks by GOSH children spiral upwards to a spinning illuminated ballerina at the top, and donation points built into the tree’s base make it easy to support the charity’s work.

Admire the tree with a glass of champagne at Searcys, overlooking the concourse. You’ll be in full Christmas mode before you’ve even left the station.

Highspeed tip: If you can, visit the Christmas tree early in the morning or later in the evening (before 10am or after 8pm) for the best photo opportunities. The tree also doubles as a handy meeting point if you’re travelling in a group!

A busy london street filled with Christmas lights

Best things to do in London over Christmas 2025

St Pancras International is your gateway to London’s festive season. Here’s our pick of the city’s top Christmas attractions for 2025, all loved by locals and just minutes from the station.

1. Christmas at Coal Drops Yard 2025

A short walk from St. Pancras International, this canalside neighbourhood transforms into a winter destination each Christmas. From 28th November, the Coal Drops Yard Christmas Market returns with a curated line-up of independent makers and festive treats beneath a traditional 50-foot Christmas tree.

Stop by Word on the Water, a floating bookshop moored on the Regent’s Canal, for a quiet browse and unique gift ideas. And if you’re in the mood for a show, Sabrage at Lafayette brings cabaret and acrobatics to the area throughout December.

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

Highspeed tip: Be sure to explore Canopy Market for handmade gifts before heading back to St. Pancras International for a warming drink at The Betjeman Arms.

2. Kings Place Christmas line-up 2025

Tucked behind St Pancras International, Kings Place is one of London’s most atmospheric venues for live music, and its Christmas programme is full of variety.

This year’s performances include Nine Lessons and Carols for Curious People, Robin Ince’s much-loved variety night that blends science, comedy, and music into a uniquely festive celebration of curiosity and cheer. For something more soulful, A Christmas Gospel Celebration brings the BIG Gospel Choir to the stage for an evening of uplifting carols.

Tickets: Book in advance on the Kings Place website.

Getting there: Walk from St Pancras International to Kings Place (5 minutes via York Way).

Highspeed tip: Arrive early and stop for dinner and drinks at Carluccio’s in St. Pancras International: a fun way to settle in before the show begins.

3. Christmas Lights Walking Trail 2025

Few sights capture Christmas in London quite like its light displays. This self-guided trail links three of London’s most famous festive streets and is guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.

Stop 1: Oxford Street, A Sky Full of Stars

From Monday 3 November 2025, more than 5,000 energy-efficient LED stars will illuminate Oxford Street, created in partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. The canopy will stretch the length of London’s busiest shopping street, turning it into a winter wonderland.

Getting there: Take the Victoria line from King’s Cross to Oxford Circus (4 minutes). From there, start your walk westward along Oxford Street.

Highspeed tip: Arrive just before dusk to catch the moment the stars come to life. 

Stop 2: Regent Street and St. James’s Market

A short stroll from Oxford Circus leads you to Regent Street, home to London’s most photographed Christmas lights. Thirty winged creatures, affectionately known as the Regent Street angels, will light up for the festive season on Thursday 6 November 2025. The installation also features a Wishing Tree at St James’s Market, raising funds for The Felix Project, a charity tackling food waste across the city.

Getting there: Walk five minutes south from Oxford Circus down Regent Street.

Highspeed tip: Pause midway at Waterstones Piccadilly’s 5th-floor café for a hot chocolate with views of the lights stretching in both directions.

Stop 3: Carnaby Street, All Is Bright

Just a short walk from Regent Street, Carnaby brings creativity and colour to Christmas in London. Last year, the street unveiled a bold light installation set to evolve over five years, and the 2025 display marks its next chapter. The switch-on takes place on Thursday 6 November.

Getting there: From Regent Street, walk west along Beak Street or Ganton Street: both lead directly into Carnaby.

4. Ice skating at Somerset House

One of London’s most magical Christmas traditions, Skate at Somerset House, is back from 12th November 2025. Each winter, the neoclassical courtyard transforms into a seasonal spectacle of music, food, and skating under the open sky.

This year’s edition marks the finale of Somerset House’s 25th birthday celebrations. A stylish clubhouse lounge adds an extra touch of luxury to the rink, while the Skate Lates series returns with live DJ sets, bringing London’s music scene to the ice.

Expect festive food options like The Chalet by pop-up legend Jimmy Garcia, and a rinkside art installation. There’s even a Shelter Boutique selling pre-loved treasures in aid of the charity, all under the glow of a glorious 40-foot Christmas tree.

Tickets: Book in advance on the Somerset House website.

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

Highspeed tip: New to skating? Treat yourself to an early Christmas gift and book in for a lesson with their annual sell-out Skate School.

5. West End theatre at Christmas

London’s West End is at its best at Christmas. Highlights for 2025 include the famous ballet The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum, and Sadler’s Wells production of The Snowman.
Theatres stage everything from pantomimes to feel-good musicals such as Elf the Musical and A Christmas Carol. Tickets are available on the respective theatre websites and should be booked well in advance.

Getting there: Take the Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St Pancras to Covent Garden (11 minutes) or Leicester Square (13 minutes), both in the heart of Theatreland.

Highspeed tip: Book a matinée, then step straight into the Covent Garden and Regent Street Christmas lights.

6. St Paul’s Cathedral carol services

At Christmas, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most atmospheric places to be. Their 2025 programme includes free Advent carol services throughout December and choral performances by the world-famous St Paul’s Cathedral Choir, accompanied by readings and candlelight. Arrive early to hear the organ echo through the nave.

Tickets: Free with a ticket, available on the St Paul’s Cathedral website.

Getting there: Catch the Circle or Hammersmith & City Line from King’s Cross St Pancras to Barbican (4 minutes). It’s a short walk from there.

Highspeed tip: Queue early and dress warmly. After the service, cross the Millennium Bridge for one of the best night-time views in London: the cathedral glowing behind you and the Tate Modern ahead.

7. Southbank Winter Festival

Stretching along the Thames beside the Southbank Centre, the Southbank Winter Festival is one of London’s cherished Christmas offerings. From 3 November 2025 through 4 January 2026, the wooden stalls of the Winter Market fill the promenade, serving roasted chestnuts, fondue, and mulled cider. It’s lively but relaxed, with skyline views of Big Ben and the London Eye.

This year’s festival line-up is packed with culture and community spirit. Get cosy at Creative Encounters: Spice Blending Stories, where you’ll mix your own spice blends and learn about their global origins. Music fans can catch Tomorrow’s Warriors: Extraordinary Winter Showcase, featuring some of London’s most exciting young jazz talent. And if you’re still in town to welcome the new year, don’t miss the New Year’s Day Ceilidh, a lively Scottish dance event that fills the Royal Festival Hall with traditional folk music.

Tickets: The market and the workshop events are free to attend and don’t require a ticket.

Getting there: Take the Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Waterloo. The festival runs along the riverside, beside the Southbank Centre and Queen’s Walk.

Highspeed tip: Cross the Golden Jubilee Bridge at sunset for a panoramic view of the river lights.

8. Hampstead Heath Winter Walk (Parliament Hill Viewpoint)

When you need a breather from the city, Hampstead Heath offers the perfect festive escape. Just fifteen minutes from St. Pancras, its panoramic views from Parliament Hill show London at its most peaceful.

Afterwards, head into Hampstead Village for a well-earned refreshment. The Holly Bush, tucked away up a cobbled lane, serves mulled wine beside crackling fires, while The Spaniards Inn, one of London’s oldest pubs, pairs its literary history with hearty roast dinners.

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

Highspeed tip: If you have time, continue your walk to Kenwood House at the Heath’s northern edge. Its winter exhibitions and festive events make it a charming extra stop, especially if you’re travelling with children.

Christmas markets in London

Best Christmas markets in London 2025

London’s Christmas markets are the perfect places to soak up the festive atmosphere. We’ve hand-picked the best markets in the city, combining seasonal charm with easy connections from St Pancras International.

1. King’s Cross Canopy Market

When: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from mid-November 2025

Where: West Handyside Canopy, N1C

What to expect: Set under a restored Victorian glass and steel roof, Canopy Market brings together independent makers, artists, and food traders in a lively covered space. During the festive season, the market transforms with Christmas lights and seasonal street food, from artisan chocolate to small-batch mulled wine. Ideal for last-minute Christmas shopping before your journey home.

Getting there: Walk 6-8 minutes from St. Pancras International via Granary Square.

Highspeed tip: Visit on Fridays or Saturdays for the widest range of stalls and live music from local performers.

2. Leadenhall Market

When: Thursday 13 November onwards

Where: Gracechurch Street, EC3V

What to expect: With its vaulted ceilings, Leadenhall Market feels like stepping into a Dickens novel. At Christmas, this 14th-century covered arcade is strung with gold garlands, an 18-foot Christmas tree at its centre. The 2025 celebrations begin with the Christmas lights switch-on, and throughout the season, festive weekend craft fairs bring local creativity to the historic arcade. Between stalls, stop for mince pies or mulled wine at one of the characterful resident pubs.

Getting there: Take the Metropolitan Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Liverpool Street (12 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to the market.

Highspeed tip: If you can, join one of the festive guided walks running every Wednesday evening during the season, exploring the market’s rich Victorian history.

3. Leicester Square Christmas Market

When: Mid-November 2025 onwards

Where: Leicester Square, WC2H

What to expect: In the heart of Soho, Leicester Square Christmas Market brings festive charm to one of London’s busiest neighbourhoods. Wooden chalets fill the square with gifts and classic treats like gingerbread and eggnog. Last year’s highlight was the Spiegeltent, a pop-up venue home to La Clique: an award-winning circus and comedy show, rumoured to return for 2025.

Getting there: Take the Piccadilly Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Leicester Square (13 minutes).

Highspeed tip: Time your visit to catch an early evening cabaret show at the Spiegeltent, then explore nearby Christmas lights in Covent Garden and Regent Street.

4. Winter by the River, London Bridge City

When: 14 November 2025 onwards

Where: London Bridge City, SE1

What to expect: Framed by Tower Bridge and The Shard, Winter by the River is one of London’s most scenic festive markets. This year brings a fresh look to The Glasshouse, now a two-storey winter venue with heated rooftop seating, panoramic Thames views, and a full menu of seasonal drinks and hot waffles. Inside, weekly “paint and sip” evenings and happy hours make it the perfect spot to unwind after sightseeing.

Getting there: Take the Northern Line from King’s Cross St. Pancras to London Bridge (about 9 minutes). The market is a short walk from the station, along the riverside between Hay’s Galleria and Tower Bridge.

Highspeed tip: Visit after 6pm when the lights reflect off the Thames and the crowds thin. Thursdays are best for live music and street food.

5. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

When: 14 November 2025 onwards

Where: Hyde Park, W2

What to expect: London’s biggest festive event, Winter Wonderland, returns for six weeks of celebrations, combining fairground rides, live shows, and street food. Expect everything from the Bavarian Village to the Ice Kingdom, skating, and alpine-style bars serving mulled wine by the fire. It’s the ultimate London Christmas day out.

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

Highspeed tip: Book tickets in advance and aim for a weekday morning or early afternoon slot for fewer crowds and shorter queues.

A woman samples perfume in a Jo Malone store in St. Pancras
Jo Malone London, St. Pancras International

Christmas shopping in London 2025

From heritage brands to independent makers, London is one of the best places for Christmas shopping, and starting at St Pancras International means you’re already surrounded by gifts worth giving. This Christmas shopping route keeps things practical and local, with an easy circuit that begins at the station, then ventures into a few of the city’s most festive shopping spots.

Start at St. Pancras International

You don’t need to go far for thoughtful gifts. Inside the station, you’ll find Fortnum & Mason’s quintessentially British hampers, teas and preserves; Jo Malone London’s iconic fragrances; and Ladurée’s gift-boxed macarons and chocolates. For younger travellers (or anyone young at heart), Hamleys offers toys and games, while Hatchards stocks books and stationery. Be sure to browse our full range of shops and boutiques ahead of time.

Check out our festive gift guides for inspiration

If you’re short on time or need help choosing, explore our festive gift guides like our guide to Christmas Gift Ideas for the Family, All Under One Iconic Roof. They’re packed with gifts you can pick up right here at St. Pancras International.

Head to Coal Drops Yard

Just north of the station, Coal Drops Yard brings design-led shopping and festive atmosphere together. Independent brands, concept stores and pop-ups line the cobbled lanes, alongside cafés serving seasonal treats. It’s quieter than Oxford Street but just as inspiring – perfect for picking up locally made gifts or browsing the weekend Canopy Market for crafts and artisan food.

Free festive stops along the way

Christmas shopping in London doesn’t have to mean constant spending. Enjoy the window displays at Selfridges and Liberty London, walk beneath the Christmas lights of Soho, or pause for the street performers in Covent Garden for a free dose of London Christmas spirit.

AK_LONPK_Junior_Suite_Chambers_01
St. Pancras London, Autograph Collection Hotel

Where to stay for Christmas in London 2025

Staying near St. Pancras International keeps you close to the Eurostar, Tube links, and London’s top festive attractions. Here are the best hotels within a 10-minute radius of the station, grouped by budget. Prices below are for standard double rooms and may vary.

£ Cheap and cheerful

  • The House of Toby, King’s Cross (from £27): A simple, affordable base for travellers who want convenience without the extras.
  • hub by Premier Inn, King’s Cross (from £71): Modern rooms and smart use of space, ideal for short stays.
  • Point A Hotel, King’s Cross (from £95): Clean, compact and just a short walk from St Pancras.

££ Mid-range

  • The Megaro, King’s Cross (from £140): Contemporary, stylish rooms just minutes from the station.
  • The Standard (from £159), King’s Cross: Opposite St Pancras, with a famous library lounge and rooftop bar.
  • The Gyle, King’s Cross (from £185): A townhouse with heritage touches and breakfast served in its glass-roofed lounge.

£££ Luxury

 

Searcys Champagne Bar St. Pancras International
St. Pancras Bar & Brasserie

Your perfect London Christmas itinerary for 2025

Whether your trip to London lasts a day or a whole weekend, we’ve built the perfect Christmas itinerary so you don’t miss a thing. Both routes begin and end at St Pancras International, keeping travel simple so you can make the most of every hour in the city.

What to do with 24 Hours in London at Christmas

Morning: first impressions and Christmas shopping

Arrive at St. Pancras International and start your day under our showstopping Christmas tree. Pick up a coffee from EL&N or a macaron from Ladurée, then stroll through The Arcade to browse our boutique shops for festive gifts.

Afternoon: Christmas lights and landmarks

Take the Victoria line from Kings Cross St. Pancras to Oxford Circus for a walk through London’s famous Christmas lights, and follow our route through Oxford Street’s star canopy, Regent Street’s golden angels, and Carnaby’s colourful display. Pause for lunch or shopping at Liberty London or Selfridges, two icons of Christmas retail.

Evening: dinner and Christmas entertainment

Head to Covent Garden to see the Christmas market stalls before dinner at one of their many festive eateries. End the night with carols at Trafalgar Square or catch a West End show at the theatre. Return to St. Pancras International for a champagne nightcap at St. Pancras Bar & Brasserie before your onward journey.

Highspeed tip: For last-minute gifts, stop by Fortnum and Mason or Jo Malone London inside St. Pancras International before boarding.

How to spend a long weekend in London at Christmas

Day 1

Your London Christmas starts the moment you step off the train. Admire our Christmas tree before wandering through our boutique shops for a spot of festive retail therapy. If you’re in need of fresh air after your journey, walk ten minutes to Camley Street Natural Park, an urban nature reserve with a café selling hot chocolate. In the evening, visit King’s Place for one of their festive performances before ending the day with a feast at The Betjeman Arms. Here, you can enjoy a warming menu featuring pies, fish & chips, plum-glazed steaks and more.

Day 2

Take the Circle line from Kings Cross St. Pancras to St Paul’s Cathedral for an Advent carol service: a must-see for its architecture and atmosphere. From there, walk 15 minutes to Leadenhall Market to see the Christmas lights and browse one of their artisan fairs. End the day at Somerset House for ice skating, followed by drinks in the rink-side lounge.

Day 3

Start with breakfast in the Booking Office 1869, the Victorian-style restaurant in the old St. Pancras ticket hall, then head to Covent Garden for some festive Christmas shopping in the Market Building. In the afternoon, take a short tube ride to Winter by the River, with its skyline and seasonal food stalls. Finish your trip back at St. Pancras International for a celebratory champagne toast at St. Pancras Bar & Brasserie and a final look at the Christmas tree before you travel home.

Highspeed tip: This route fits easily within a 72-hour Eurostar stay: no airport transfers, minimal travel, and maximum festive spirit.

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London travel tips from the Highspeed team

We’ve gathered some practical advice to help you make the most of your Christmas London getaway. Whether you’re arriving for a day trip or a long weekend, here’s everything you need to know before stepping off the train at St. Pancras International.

How to get around London at Christmas

Tap your contactless card or phone to travel through the city easily. King’s Cross St. Pancras connects six Underground lines, putting London’s best Christmas attractions just minutes away. Note that walking routes are often the best way to see the lights and festive streets.

When is the best time to visit London for Christmas?

Christmas lights across London switch on from mid-November. For a quieter experience, plan your trip around weekdays or early mornings to beat the crowds.

What is the weather like in London at Christmas?

Expect 5-8°C and occasional showers. Pack layers, a warm coat, and a compact umbrella to stay comfortable while exploring the markets and outdoor light trails.

Is travel accessible in London?

St. Pancras International is fully step-free to all platforms, and most major attractions have lift or ramp access. Always check venue pages ahead of your visit.

What are the best free things to do in London at Christmas?

London offers plenty of festive fun that won’t cost a thing. See Christmas lights, browse the markets, and enjoy live carols across the city: all completely free.

How can I visit London sustainably at Christmas?

You’ve already lowered your carbon footprint by arriving via high-speed rail. Keep your trip eco-friendly by walking and using public transport where possible.

Where can I store my bags while exploring London?

If you arrive early or leave late, drop your bags at Left Luggage S.t Pancras and explore the area hands-free before your train.

What is the most Christmassy street in London?

Regent Street and Oxford Street are famous for their spectacular Christmas light displays, while Carnaby Street offers a more creative, themed approach each year. All are within easy reach from St. Pancras International.

Where is the biggest Christmas market in London?

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of London’s largest festive destinations, featuring market stalls, rides, shows, and seasonal food. If you’re looking for something smaller and more artisanal, try Canopy Market near Granary Square.

Is it worth going to London during Christmas?

Absolutely. There’s nowhere like London at Christmas, with its lights, decorated shopfronts, festive music, trees, markets and events across the city. It can be busy (especially at weekends), but planning your visit ahead of time and venturing into the city earlier in the day can help keep things relaxed.

The journey home

This guide is here to help you make the most of Christmas in London, from iconic sights to local finds, all within easy reach of St. Pancras International. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a long weekend, starting your trip here keeps things simple: great connections, great shopping, and London’s festive spirit right on your doorstep.

When it’s time to head home, you’re already where you need to be, with gifts packed and our Christmas tree lighting the way to your platform.