London in Winter – 15 best things to do in winter in London

London feels magical in winter, with foggy mornings and sparkling Christmas lights everywhere.

Living in France means I can hop on a train from Paris and be in London in no time so I’ve visited in every season, but winter is when the city feels most special to me.

I’ve walked London streets in the rain, wandered through the fog, and strolled under the Christmas lights on several occasions and over time, I’ve learned which areas feel the coziest when the weather turns gray, and where to stay so you’re not freezing between Tube stops.

Over the years, I’ve figured out what’s worth doing in winter, and what attractions are far better saved for summer.

This guide is based on my own visits and practical choices. It focuses on what actually works in London in winter—what to prioritize, what to skip, and how to enjoy the city when the days are cold and gray.

Inside, you’ll find tips on where to stay, what to see first, how to get around, and how to make the most of London’s winter magic.

Why visit London in winter

London is at its best when the city is covered in twinkling Christmas lights.

Christmas decorations in London are next-level. It’s hard to find a city on the European continent that does Christmas more extravagantly than London.

The decorations lean towards modern and grand with enormous light displays spanning entire streets. It’s quite different from the traditional, cozy setups you’d find in France or Germany.

As you might already know, London has a colder, often rainy climate all year long so if you’re like me and prefer saving sunny, warm destinations for summer, then London becomes the perfect winter escape.

Simply put, it lets you enjoy the mild season in other places while still getting a proper city break when the weather doesn’t really matter anyway.

Where to stay in London in winter

If you’re visiting London in winter, pick a place to stay near a Tube station. Since the weather will most likely be chilly and rainy, having easy access to public transport is important.

Staying in Central London or near the South Bank lets you walk to Christmas lights, markets, and indoor attractions, so you can avoid long commutes in the cold.

West London, such as Kensington or Mayfair, is quieter and cozier. It’s a great area for visiting museums and parks during colder weather.

Westminster, Southbank, and Covent Garden are the best areas to stay because they are central and close to most winter attractions. Prices in these neighborhoods drop a bit in January and early February, so you might find a special place to stay in the heart of London for less than usual.

15 amazing things to do in London in winter

Explore London’s Christmas Markets

London turns into a village-of-villages in winter, and each festive market has its own charm—from the famous, high-energy ones to the cozy neighborhood gems.

Join this guided evening tour to hit all the best-lit streets without getting lost in the cold.

If you prefer a warmer way to see all of these, London has this option too: there is a special Christmas Lights Tour in a Black Cab!

These are the best Christmas Markets in London, that you should absolutely add to your list:

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

This is the most famous Christmas market in London. It’s huge, lively, and filled with everything you’d expect from winter in the UK.

• The largest ice rink in the country
• Rows of festive food stalls and wooden chalets
• Rides, shows, and a buzzing Christmas atmosphere

This is the best place for a classic Christmas market experience. The decorations are amazing, but it can get very crowded. Try to visit early or on a weekday if possible.

Battersea Park Christmas Market

A lovely alternative to the crowds.

• Wooden chalets, food stalls, and a festive setup similar to Winter Wonderland
• Has its own ice rink, but is generally quieter, especially during weekdays
• On weekends, downstairs in Battersea Power Station, you’ll find the Salad Days Market, a pop-up space filled with local artisans selling jewellery, pottery, candles, mugs, crafts, and specialty food

Perfect if you prefer a more local, relaxed vibe without sacrificing the magic.

Sloane Square & the Ralph Lauren Christmas Pop-Up

Right in Chelsea, this is a more chic, boutique-style festive corner.

• Ralph Lauren sets up a charming pop-up that feels like a tiny Christmas market
• In the evenings, the square hosts live carols, making it feel straight out of a holiday film

This spot is intimate and festive, making it ideal for visitors who like elegant decorations and smaller crowds.

Covent Garden’s Apple Market

A classic London Christmas spot.

• The Apple Market fills with gift stands and artisanal stalls
• A giant, beautifully decorated Christmas tree anchors the piazza
• Shops and restaurants all join in the festive spirit
• Sometimes, at fixed times in the evening, the square releases artificial snow beside the tree to make it look like it’s actually snowing

It’s magical, especially after dark, and perfect for photos. This is one of my favourite places, although it gives me anxiety being so crowded!

Admire London’s Christmas Lights and Winter Displays

London’s festive lights are truly special. Walking through the city in winter feels like stepping into a glowing postcard.

New Bond Street & Cartier’s Holiday Lights

New Bond Street becomes one of the most glamorous streets in the world during the holidays.

• Luxury boutiques decorate their façades with extravagant installations
• The Cartier store stands out with its evening light displays, almost like a little show

This is one of the most photogenic light routes in the city, so bring your camera.

Fortnum and Mason Christmas Windows

This iconic department store transforms its entire front into a giant Advent Calendar, with each window decorated like a numbered surprise.

Inside, the store is beautifully decorated, warm, and atmospheric, perfect for a winter indoor moment between market visits.

Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth popping in just to soak up the festive elegance.

Covent Garden Lights

Covent Garden deserves a mention here too because it has two distinct attractions:

• The huge ornament-style decorations across the market halls
• The glow around the Christmas tree and surrounding streets

Take a bus tour to see the city lights

My favorite way to explore any city is on foot, but with London’s winter weather? Buses become your best friend.

London is famous for its variety of bus tours. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy warm food while still seeing a huge part of the city without freezing outside.

My favorite moment to do this is at night, when the Christmas lights are on. This gives you time to enjoy museum visits and indoor attractions during the day, then take advantage of the dark hours to continue your adventure in cozy comfort.

What I love about London’s famous red double-decker buses is that they have an upper floor! My sisters and I were obsessed with this (we’d never seen anything like it), though my father found it a bit tricky to climb up there while the bus was moving.

If there’s one city in Europe where I’d recommend this hop-on-hop-off bus, it’s London. You visit at your own rhythm while solving the transportation issue at the same time—perfect for those rainy days when you don’t want to wait for the Tube.

During Christmas, there’s even a special Christmas lights bus tour with a guide that takes you past the best decorations around the city.

My absolute favorite is this afternoon tea bus. It blends England’s most iconic tradition with sightseeing, which means you don’t waste precious time (and when you’re in London, time equals money—this city is expensive!).

Alternatively, the lunch or dinner bus tours include proper meals (anywhere from 3 to 7 courses!). You spend what you’d spend at a restaurant anyway, but combine it with a tour. Smart, right?

Visit Westminster Abbey

Being inside is exactly what you should look for in winter in London, and Westminster Abbey delivers spectacularly.

If you’re a history fan like me, you’ve already heard about this place. This is where the Kings and Queens of England were coronated and buried. You’ll literally walk over (yes, sometimes OVER) burial places of famous figures like Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, and Charles Darwin.

My favorite part of the church is the Lady Chapel because of its incredibly detailed fan-vaulted ceilings and intricately carved wooden choir stalls. The craftsmanship is absolutely breathtaking.

This is such an interesting visit that I don’t recommend only taking the audioguide.

Their audioguide is designed around interviews with clergy members talking about daily life at the Abbey. From my point of view, it misses loads of historical facts.

I’d rather hear about the queens buried there than the religious routine.

Instead, book a guided tour for proper in-depth storytelling. A knowledgeable guide brings the stones to life in ways an audio recording simply can’t.

If you’re visiting in December, check if there are Christmas carol concerts scheduled. 

Visit the Tower of London

If you have a trip to London planned, you’ve probably stumbled upon at least one Tower of London tour. I know I did.

It’s one of the most popular attractions in London and the oldest building you can visit: a fortress made of different buildings, each unique in its own way.

The best way to visit is with the Yeoman Warder tour (also called the Beefeater tour). These guards actually live inside the Tower and tell stories you won’t hear anywhere else, including dark tales of executions, famous prisoners, and royal scandals.

The tour is included with your ticket (I recommend you book your ticket in advance) and runs every 30 minutes. Just know that this tour will be crowded, as everyone does it.

For a more relaxed visit, aim to arrive early in the morning as soon as the gates open or schedule your tour during a weekday. This will help you avoid long queues and enjoy the history without the crowds.

So what’s even better? Book the Ceremony of the Keys evening tour to see the 700-year-old locking ritual! It honestly feels like a VIP experience.

Opening hours: 10:00 am–5:30pm (special tours give you access earlier or later)

Go to a musical or theater show

London’s West End is world-famous for its theater scene, and catching a musical here is an absolute must for a truly memorable evening.

From timeless classics like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera to newer hits like Hamilton and Six, there’s something for every taste. My favorite is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, of course!

If you’re flexible on dates or titles, check the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for same-day discounted tickets; you might snag a great seat for a fraction of the price.

If you’re not flexible, book well in advance! Popular shows sell out quickly, especially during the Christmas season and school holidays.

Winter evenings in London are made for theater. The cold and rain outside make settling into a plush velvet seat to watch a magical story unfold on stage feel even more special.

See a movie in an old cinema

If musicals aren’t your style, step back in time with a visit to the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill.

This cinema is over a hundred years old and is one of the oldest still operating in the UK. It offers a classic movie experience with leather armchairs, footstools, and even cashmere blankets.

You can order a glass of wine or some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the cozy, intimate charm of old-fashioned cinema. It’s a very different experience from a modern multiplex.

It’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon, especially if you want something warm and nostalgic without having to go out in the cold.

You can pair it with a Notting Hill Walk Celebrities and Film Locations guided tour!

Pro tip: Book ahead, the best seats (the double beds at the back!) go quickly.

Visit Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is an incredible covered market that’s thought to have inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Inspired or not, the actual scene from the first movie was shot right here.

This is one of my favorite places in London. The Victorian architecture stands out from the modern glass towers nearby.

It reminds me of the covered passages in Paris, with old boutiques, small restaurants in ornate archways, and one of the best coffee spots in London, Blank Street. (Well, I almost always take their matcha latté, which is spectacular!).

The market dates back to the 14th century, though the current stunning structure with its cobalt blue and maroon paintwork was built in 1881.

The vaulted glass ceiling and intricate ironwork make it feel like you’ve stepped into another era entirely.

It’s a great winter spot because it’s fully sheltered from the rain, has a pleasant atmosphere, and is less crowded than other tourist spots. You can also enjoy a warm coffee as you explore.

Location: Gracechurch Street, EC3

Opening hours: Most shops open Mon–Fri (it’s quieter on weekends)

Take a dinner river cruise

Did you know you can have dinner on a cruise in London? This is the best way to see the city from a completely different angle!

I love the cruises you can do in Paris, so when I learned you can have this experience in London, I was in!

Just like the buses, there are several options to choose from, from simple sightseeing tours to afternoon tea experiences or even a full floating restaurant. I obviously prefer the latter.

Winter is a great time for a dinner cruise because you stay warm inside while passing by illuminated landmarks like Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.

Most dinner cruises include a three or four-course meal with live music or a DJ, making it feel like a proper evening out, not just a tourist activity.

Evening cruises (around 7–9 PM) offer the best views when the city is fully lit up.

Float past London’s landmarks in a hot tub boat

Here’s something I never thought I’d do in London: soaking in a hot tub while cruising down the Thames.

Yes, really. You sit in warm, bubbling water with a drink in hand, floating past Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf on the most relaxed sightseeing tour imaginable.

It’s part floating spa, part history lesson, and entirely ridiculous in the best way possible.

A guide points out landmarks as you drift by, so you’re learning about London while literally sitting in your swimsuit with steam rising around you.

If you’re traveling as a couple and want something way beyond the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, this is it.

It’s quirky, memorable, and surprisingly cozy even in winter (the water stays hot, trust me). Some tours even provide prosecco or let you bring your own drinks onboard.

Warm up at the Victoria and Albert Museum with hot chocolate in the lobby

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is so grand that it’s hard to believe admission is free, but it is.

You can literally walk straight in from the Tube (which means no rain can catch you!) , and suddenly you’re surrounded by centuries of art, design, and fashion.

It’s perfect for a quick 30-minute wander or a slow afternoon losing yourself in the galleries.

The museum café is one of the most beautiful places to sit in London, with chandeliers, detailed tiled walls, and vaulted ceilings that feel like a royal dining hall.

Order a hot chocolate (or proper English tea if you’re feeling traditional), grab a pastry, and just… sit. Let the warmth seep back into your fingers while you people-watch or flip through your photos from the morning.

It’s cozy and beautiful, and moments like this make winter travel feel special instead of just cold.

Location: Cromwell Road, South Kensington

Entry: Free (some special exhibitions require tickets)

Getting there: South Kensington Tube station (you can walk underground directly to the entrance)

Visit the Harry Potter Studios under snow!

During winter, the Harry Potter Studios transform completely. Everything gets covered in snow and takes on that magical Christmassy vibe you see in the Hogwarts scenes from the films.

It’s truly the best time to visit. The Great Hall is decorated for the holidays, Diagon Alley sparkles under fake snow, and the Hogwarts model outside looks amazing with its snow-covered turrets and twinkling windows.

Most of the studios are indoors, which makes this perfect for a cold, rainy day in London. You stay warm while wandering through iconic sets like the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office, and the Forbidden Forest.

I did an entire trip to London just to experience this, so if you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, this is non-negotiable.

Book well in advance, as winter slots sell out fast, especially around Christmas and New Year.

The studios are located in Watford, about 20 miles northwest of central London. You can take a train from Euston Station and then a shuttle bus, or book a tour package that includes transport.

Allow at least 3–4 hours inside. There’s so much to see, and you’ll want time in the gift shop too.

Try a traditional English pie in a cozy pub

Nothing beats a proper English pie on a cold winter day! They come filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables, all tucked under a golden, flaky crust that’s pure comfort food.

We tried different ones during a family visit to London, and honestly? It became our go-to meal. Easy to find, warming, and quintessentially British.

Pair it with a Soho Music and Historic Pubs Walking Tour for the full experience.

You’ll visit four iconic pubs in London’s famous Soho area, hearing stories about legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, and Marilyn Monroe, all while enjoying a pint (and maybe a pie) in the same spots they once hung out.

It’s history, music, food, and warmth all rolled into one perfect winter afternoon.

Some of my favorite pubs for a proper pie include The Churchill Arms in Kensington (covered in fairy lights in winter), The Harwood Arms, if you want something more upscale, or any traditional pub in Covent Garden or Southwark.

Go for the steak and ale pie if you see it on the menu. It’s a classic for a reason.

Step into history at the British Museum

I’d been dreaming of visiting the British Museum since I was a kid flipping through history books. The ancient Egypt collection? Every bit as mind-blowing as I imagined.

And the ancient Greece galleries left me completely speechless—marble sculptures that have stood for millennia, just there in front of you.

This place is massive. Truly massive. Without a plan, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the endless galleries, multiple floors, and sheer number of artefacts on display. You could wander for days and still miss the highlights.

That’s exactly why I highly recommend you book a guided tour of the British Museum. It helps you focus on what actually matters, skip the mental overload, and leave feeling like you’ve really experienced the place, rather than just walked through it.

A good guide takes you straight to the must-sees like the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, the Egyptian mummies. It also tells you the stories behind them, and saves you from complete museum fatigue.

Near the main entrance, there’s a boutique selling high-quality souvenirs that sells gold jewellery, silk scarves, art prints. I bought a gold necklace engraved with a hieroglyph as a personal memento from the Egyptian gallery. Way better than the usual fridge magnets.

Entry is free, but you must book a timed slot online in advance.

Without a reservation, you could wait two or even three hours in the cold. If you booked online, head to the main entrance, you’ll be inside within 5 minutes.

Otherwise, try the back entrance on Montague Place for shorter queues. Entry is free but you must reserve your slot.

Try the Winter Igloos at Coppa Club

If you’re anything like me and love quirky, cozy spaces that feel a bit magical, the winter igloos at Coppa Club are absolutely worth it.

These heated glass domes sit right on the Thames with postcard-perfect views of Tower Bridge. It feels like your own little winter bubble in the middle of London.

Come for brunch, dinner, or just a hot chocolate while watching the sunset soften into pink as the bridge lights switch on.

It’s intimate, dreamy, and exactly the kind of experience that makes winter travel feel special.

Book well ahead, everyone wants a spot in these igloos, especially around Christmas and New Year.

Book your igloo: Coppa Club Tower Bridge reservations

Winter Holidays and Events in London

London has many winter celebrations, from festive traditions to major public holidays that affect how the city runs.

These dates can change opening hours, transport schedules, restaurant availability, and even hotel prices. Knowing what to expect will help you plan your trip better.

Below are the key winter dates worth keeping in mind when organising a trip to London.

24 December – Christmas Eve

A festive but shortened day. Many museums, shops, and attractions close earlier than usual, and transport shifts to a reduced timetable. Restaurants fill up quickly, so booking ahead is essential.

25 December – Christmas Day

London comes to a near standstill. Most restaurants, shops, and all public transport shut down. Only a handful of hotels and special venues remain open, often with limited menus and higher prices. Reservations are required well in advance.

26 December – Boxing Day

Known for huge post-Christmas sales. Shops reopen, but expect large crowds. Transport may still run on limited hours.

31 December – New Year’s Eve

Attractions close earlier and restaurants book up weeks ahead. The city stays lively late into the night, especially along the Thames where the famous fireworks take place (ticketed event).

1 January – New Year’s Day

A slower start across the city. Many places open later, and transport operates on a holiday schedule. The New Year’s Day Parade brings music and performances to central London.

6 January – The Epiphany

A quieter date in the UK with little impact on opening times. It marks the tail end of the festive season.

14 February – Valentine’s Day

Regular opening hours apply, but romantic restaurants and themed experiences fill up early. Advance dinner reservations are recommended.

School Holidays

Winter school breaks increase crowds at major attractions.

• Christmas holidays: late December to early January
• February Half-Term: usually mid-February
  Expect busier museums, family attractions, and higher accommodation demand.

London’s Winter Temperature and Weather

Winter in London lasts from late December to March, but the city often feels chilly even earlier. 

By mid-November, the air is crisp, days are shorter, and cafés fill with people escaping the cold. March mornings can still be wintry, though afternoons sometimes hint at spring.

London’s temperatures are mild for northern Europe, but the damp air and Thames breeze can make it feel colder.

Rain is common, and misty mornings add to the city’s charm. Snow is rare, but you’ll often see frost on rooftops, especially in January.

January is typically the coldest month, averaging around 5°C (41°F) during the day.

Month	Max&Min Temperature	Average Rainy Days	Average Sunshine hours
December	9°C / 48°F – 3°C / 37°F	10 days	2h
January	8°C / 46°F – 2°C / 36°F	11 days	2h
February	9°C / 48°F – 2°C / 36°F	9 days	3h
March	12°C / 54°F – 4°C / 39°F	9 days	4h

Does it snow in London?

Snow in London is possible, but it’s uncommon. If it happens, it’s usually January, not December, because the city isn’t cold enough earlier.

London is warmer than the surrounding countryside, so snow rarely settles, which is why some Christmas markets add artificial snow to bring the winter magic.

How many days in London in winter?

I always recommend at least four days in London during winter. There’s simply so much to see; Christmas markets, festive lights, seasonal events, and the crowds slow everything down.

With four days, you can enjoy the atmosphere without rushing and still fit in cozy cafés and iconic sights.

Getting to London

By air: London has several major airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and City Airport. All are well connected by trains, coaches, or the Tube.

Heathrow is the easiest for first-timers, thanks to the direct Piccadilly Line and the fast Heathrow Express.

By bus: International coaches and UK buses arrive at Victoria Coach Station, a central and convenient hub. It’s usually the cheapest way to get to London, though travel times are longer.

By car: Driving into London isn’t recommended. Between traffic, parking fees, and congestion charges, it’s both stressful and expensive. Park outside the city and take public transport in.

By train: Eurostar arrives directly into St Pancras International, placing you in the heart of London within minutes of the Tube.

UK trains connect the city to every region, making this one of the smoothest arrival options.

Eurostar arrives directly into St Pancras International, putting you in central London within minutes of the Tube. It’s a smooth, fast jump from Paris to London that feels almost easier than crossing Paris itself. 

Getting around London

London’s transport network is big, intuitive, and winter-friendly so it’s perfect for exploring the city without rushing.

Using contactless (TAP) payment

You can simply tap your credit or debit card on buses, tubes, and trains, no need to buy a ticket.

Just remember one rule: always use the same card for every journey in a day.

This ensures you benefit from the daily price cap (around £8 for central zones). If you mix cards, the system can’t cap your fares and you’ll pay more.

Tube: Fast, efficient, and easy to understand. Great for longer distances or when it’s raining.

Buses: Perfect in winter — you stay warm and you can admire the Christmas lights from the upper deck. Routes through Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are especially magical.

Uber Boat: A fun, scenic way to travel along the Thames. It’s practical too, connecting key neighborhoods like Westminster, Tower Bridge, Greenwich, and Battersea.