What to see and do with your children on a Christmas trip to London.
A festive trip with the kids to London is a special experience. The beloved metropolis knows how to stage the ultimate Christmas magic and to captivate young and old alike. People from all over the world flock to London at this time for the spectacularly decorated streets, the imaginative window displays, the open-air markets, the ice rinks, the shows and the endless options for shopping. Below we have handpicked and recommend 10 things to do with your children on a Christmas trip to the British capital.
Ride the Polar Express
The ride on the legendary The Polar Express train in London returns again this year. Children will be thrilled with the magical train ride, a theatrical experience that departs from Euston Station inspired by the popular Christmas movie. More information here.
Christmas decorations
There is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit, if you are in London, than a stroll along streets with their unique decorations. Enjoy a festive walk down the spectacularly adorned Regent Street, Oxford Street, Bond Street and Carnaby Street.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Every year, at this time, Hyde Park transforms from a beautiful park into a winter wonderland in the heart of London. The funfair, the open-air ice rink and the Christmas market offer special moments for young and old alike (until 1 January 2026).
Hogwarts in the Snow
Enjoy a festive tour of the Warner Bros studios where the Harry Potter films were shot. You will see the famous sets from the films decorated as they were for the holiday scenes and admire authentic costumes and props. More information here.
Christmas at Covent Garden
Children will love the giant Christmas tree with thousands of colorful lights in Covent Garden. Visit the magical Christmas village inside the market building to shop for beautiful gifts and listen to festive music.
Southbank Winter Market
The Thames never looks as enchanting as during the festive season along the Southbank, when it reflects the sparkling Christmas lights of the market set up between the Southbank Center and the London Eye. Enjoy your stroll and the views of the river as you browse the wooden chalets selling gifts, warm drinks and plenty of treats (until 4 January 2026).
Christmas at Kew
The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew are among the top attractions in London and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over the Christmas season they transform into a sparkling wonderland, with spectacular light installations, shimmering tunnels and enchanting projections (until 4 January 2026).
Ice skating
Every winter, London fills with ice rinks, from the legendary Somerset House and Canary Wharf to the newer Glide at Battersea Power Station. The oldest - and one of the most affordable - in the city is Queens Skate Dine Bowl in Bayswater.
Christmas at the museums
Visit the Natural History Museum to see the Tyrannosaurus Rex dressed for the holidays in a giant Christmas sweater. The London Transport Museum is also worth a visit, which at this time hosts special events where children can meet Santa and his elf in a magical winter garden. Families can climb aboard an interactive sleigh inspired by the Routemaster and take part in festive craft workshops.
Christmas shopping
Little ones will be thrilled with a visit to the historic toy store Hamleys, one of the most famous shops on Regent Street, or to The LEGO Store London in Leicester Square, which is one of the largest LEGO stores in the world!
