Things to do in London on Christmas Day

It's the one day of the year when London feels especially quiet, so experience a different side of the city on Christmas Day in London with tours and delicious meals.

Soak up plenty of seasonal cheer with this guide to what to do in London on Christmas Day. You could be celebrating with family in cosy restaurants over Christmas dinner, wandering streets adorned with shimmering Christmas lights or taking in the festive atmosphere by a crackling fire in London’s pubs.

Take a peek at what presents London has under wraps this Christmas Day and plan your magical day out – just ensure to stay safe by following the latest social distancing guidelines and check with individual venues before visiting.

Enjoy a Christmas Day out in London

Make this Christmas Day even more memorable with special tours and day trips, all of which ensure to abide by the latest coronavirus guidelines.

• Experience London’s spectacular sights and sounds during a morning tour or night-time tour aboard a luxurious coach. You'll spot iconic spots such as the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square.
• Sing along to carols as you sip on bubbly and munch on traditional Christmas lunch in London, on a Christmas Day river cruise and bus tour.
• Cause FOMO back home with colourful snaps of sparkling London Christmas lights on an open-top bus tour.

Christmas Day transport in London

Just as Santa takes a well-earned rest, so does London’s public transport on Christmas Day, with no services running. But there are alternative ways to explore the city:

• Hop on a Santander Cycle and take a ride beneath the festive decorations lining central London’s nearly deserted streets.
• Walk off those Christmas calories (and make room for more) by exploring London on foot; you’ll have the city’s beautiful architecture, street art and parks largely to yourself.
• Rest your feet and fill your feed as you snuggle up on a Christmas Day bus tour and cruise.
• Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace over 24 hours.

What is open on Christmas day in London?

Most London attractions are closed on Christmas Day, but some continue to open their doors at this special time of year. It's best to check with individual attractions before making a visit.

If you fancy a family walk, London's Royal Parks remain open on 25 December.

Christmas Day church services in London

Usually, you can attend one of the many Christmas Day services in London’s cathedrals and churches, including magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral, atmospheric St Martin-in-the-Fields church, pretty All Hallows by the Tower and historic Southwark Cathedral.

Due to the current coronavirus outbreak, some services might be cancelled or hosted online.

Which restaurants open on Christmas Day in London?

• Check if your favourite London restaurant is open on Christmas Day, and book in advance for Christmas Day lunch or dinner in London.
• Head to Chinatown – where some restaurants are open as usual on 25 December – to indulge in a delicious alternative to your traditional Christmas fill.
• If you prefer to nestle in a cosy pub, some London pubs are open for a few hours around lunchtime, but most will be closed or ticketed in the evening – so make sure to check the opening hours.
• Put on a warm coat and enjoy a meal at an alfresco spot, many of which have outdoor heaters to keep you comfortable.
• Hotel bars are a good bet for a drink on Christmas Day, though it's still best to check with the venue in advance.

Virtual Christmas activities

Find out how you can enjoy London's festive atmosphere from the comfort of your home with these at-home activities.

• Snuggle up to a Christmas movie and see if you can spot these London film locations.
• Be taken on The London of Charles Dickens' virtual tour this Boxing Day, which features the real places behind his tale, A Christmas Carol.

Find more virtual events and London-themed activities to enjoy in your comfy Christmas Day attire.

Things to do in London on Boxing Day

Once the gifts are unpacked and bellies are filled, it’s time for the Boxing Day extravaganza, which is also a public holiday, on 26 December.

Last year, for the first time on Boxing Day, London Overground services were running across the city – TfL services for Boxing Day 2020 are yet to be confirmed.

Although many attractions are usually still closed, there are many fun things to do in London on Boxing Day:

• Hit the shops: there’s nothing like a January and Boxing Day sale in London! Check out the unmissable spots to visit on the day.
• Take a spin on one of London's best ice-skating rinks, many of which re-open on 26 December.
• If you managed to book tickets beforehand, lose yourself in the magic of a top West End show or musical.

Find out more about transport and opening times over the festive season with this essential guide to Christmas and New Year in London, and plan your festive break with top tips for Christmas in London.