Things to do in London this week ( 23-29 Dec 2024 )
Dec 25th, 2024
Things to Do in London This Week 23 to 29 Dec
From festive lights to high-energy wrestling and Christmas discos, London is alive with activities this week to get you in the spirit—or out of the house. Whether you’re after twinkling illuminations, late-night movies, or quirky adventures, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into what to do in London this week.
1. Christmas Ice Discos - at Alexandra Palace
Get your skates on and head to the iconic Alexandra Palace Ice Rink for daily Christmas discos. Glide beneath twinkling lights to festive tunes as snowflakes fall around you—it’s pure winter magic. Perfect for ages 14+ looking to get into the festive groove.
Location
Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY
Dates
Daily (except 25 Dec), until 5 Jan 2025
Price
Standard rink entry
Tickets
Book Now2. Immersive Baseball Bar - Moonshot Indoor Baseball
Swing for the fences at Moonshot, London’s new immersive baseball bar in West London. Battle it out in high-tech batting cages with your mates while fueling up on American-style gourmet hot dogs, pizzas, shakes, and killer cocktails. Perfect for competitive types and after-work fun.
3. London’s Christmas Lights Tour - Central London Christmas Lights
If you haven’t seen London’s dazzling Christmas lights yet, now’s your chance! Follow a self-guided walking tour around the West End or hop on a TfL bus for a front-row view of the city’s festive illuminations. Perfect for soaking up holiday magic without breaking a sweat—or the bank.
Locations
West End
(Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden)
Dates
Throughout December
Price
Free
4. Festive Afternoon Teas Across London - Experience Festive Tea
Cranberry scones? Check. Eggnog tarts? Yes, please. London’s festive afternoon teas are serving up Christmas treats like coronation turkey sandwiches and even Moomin-themed delights. It’s a perfect way to take a break from the shopping madness and indulge in something whimsical.
Our top recommendation ? -> Tea at Ritz Carlton
Locations
Various venues across London
Dates
Throughout December
(check specific venues)
Prices
Varies by location
5. Glide Into the Season: Ice Skating
Give your festive spirit a whirl—literally—at one of London’s many ice rinks. Somerset House’s grand courtyard provides a picture-perfect background, while Battersea Power Station and Hyde Park offer equally magical, frosty experiences. Looking for a unique treat? The JW3 Ice Rink even opens on Christmas Day! Check out our full ice-skating guide for all the details, from session times to ticket prices. Don’t forget your gloves—nobody likes chilly fingers!
Locations
Somerset House, Battersea Power Station, Hyde Park, JW3
Dates
Throughout Dec & Jan
(some open on Christmas Day!)
Prices
Varies by location
6. Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
If you fancy a one-stop festive extravaganza, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has you covered. Think high-octane fairground rides, bustling market stalls, and enough hot chocolate to keep you warm for days. There’s also an ice rink, circus shows, and so much more to explore. It’s open throughout the festive season, pausing only on 25 December—but remember to book entry in advance. The fun continues until 5 January, so there’s plenty of time to pay a visit.
Location
Hyde Park, London
Dates
Open until 5 January
(Closed on 25 December)
What to Expect
Rides, Markets, Ice Rink, Circus Shows & More
7. Pick a Panto
London’s panto scene is on fire this year, offering everything from traditional Aladdin at the Lyric Hammersmith to sassy twists on Snow White. And let’s not forget timeless favourites like Jack and the Beanstalk, Dick Whittington, and Peter Pan. It’s the perfect chance to boo, cheer, and laugh out loud—panto style. If you need a helping hand deciding, check out our guide to London’s top pantomimes and secure your seats before they’re snapped up.
Show
Aladdin (Pantomime)
Venue
Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
Dates
Until 5 January
8. Festive Theatre Treats
Craving a more classical Christmas outing? You’re spoiled for choice. The Snowman, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker are just a few of the magical stage shows on offer this season. From enchanting ballets to whimsical circus productions and spirited musicals, there’s something for every theatregoer. This is prime Twixmas entertainment, so gather your friends or family, snag some tickets, and let the holiday sparkle wash over you.
Show
The Nutcracker
Venue
London Coliseum
Dates
Throughout December & January
So there you have it, London’s got festive fun by the sleighful this week. If you’re itching to get out and about, you’re spoiled for choice—from twinkling lights to panto nights. Whatever you pick, we hope your Christmas is merry, bright, and full of London cheer!
Looking for something more? Check our date ideas in London , free things to do in London for great ideas!
