London in December: a practical guide for your winter trip

London in December: What It’s Really Like

December in London feels different — colder, darker, and definitely busier than usual. Shops stay open later, streets buzz with people, and getting around can take a bit longer. But the city also slows down in its own way. Festive decorations start popping up early, outdoor markets fill squares, and some parts of town become friendlier to walkers.

What to Expect from London Weather in December

December’s weather in London is chilly and damp. Temperatures usually hover between 3°C and 9°C (that’s about 37°F to 48°F). Snow is pretty rare here, but don’t be surprised if you get caught in a few quick showers under grey skies. Days are short — the sun rises around 8 AM and disappears by 4 PM, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.

If you’re doing a lot of walking, waterproof shoes are a must-have. A warm, water-resistant jacket will keep you cozy, and don’t forget a hat and gloves—they come in handy more often than you think. Indoors, places tend to be well heated, so layering your clothes is a smart move—you can always peel off a layer when you step inside.

Public transport usually runs on time, but it gets pretty crowded as the holidays near. Renting a car? Be careful on the roads—they can get slippery. A car with winter tires is a good bet if you’re driving around London.

Celebrating the Season: Events and Lights Throughout the City

Christmas in December fills the city of London with a touch of magic. Holiday bazaars materialize in busy public squares, streets shine with dazzling lights, and parks are transformed into winter paradises. Although some areas become crowded, you can generally wander about without a strict itinerary and still enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Where to Find London’s Christmas Spirit

If you wish to immerse yourself in the Christmas atmosphere, Central London has a few prime locations. Covent Garden is renowned for its massive Christmas tree and decorations in the middle square. The streets around are charming markets full of Christmas treats and bizarre gifts. The Southbank Winter Market is another favorite too — wooden stalls by the Thames make it ideal for a leisurely walk.

Families love wandering down Carnaby Street and Regent Street to see their famous holiday lights. It’s become a yearly tradition for many to watch the displays change each December. Both streets are easy to reach by Tube or bus, near Oxford Circus station. If you’ve got a few days, pick one or two festive neighborhoods to explore and take it slow — no need to rush.

Christmas Markets You Can’t Miss

The South Bank Winter Market, right next to the London Eye, offers cozy wooden huts, delicious food, and lovely river views. It’s an easy stop if you’re walking along the Thames or visiting nearby museums.

Leicester Square hosts a smaller, covered market with occasional family shows. It’s in the heart of the West End, close to theaters and cinemas — perfect if you’re catching a show nearby.

Then there’s Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, London’s biggest holiday attraction. Think rides, food stalls, games, and tons of festive fun. Entry is free during some hours, but it gets packed once tickets are required later in the day. If you’re going with kids or a group, booking tickets ahead is a smart move.

Best Places to See Christmas Lights and Decorations

Most of London’s holiday lights start glowing by mid-November and stay lit until early January. Oxford Street and Regent Street have the most famous displays, dazzling crowds every year. Carnaby Street in Soho offers something a little different, with creative themes that change annually — from pop culture nods to meaningful social messages.

Covent Garden is a must-see too, with its giant Christmas trees and stunning decorations lighting up the square. It’s bustling during the day but especially magical after dark.

If you want something quieter and don’t mind traveling a bit, Kew Gardens puts on a ticketed light trail through its beautiful botanical gardens every December evening. It’s popular with families and groups looking for a peaceful escape from the busy city. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance — weekends and dates close to Christmas sell out fast.

December activities for families visiting London

London is one of the best winter holiday destinations because it seamlessly weaves together festive fun and cultural experience. In December, most attractions amp up with added performances, pop-up activities, and festive decorations. Despite being a peak time, it is possible to skip long lines and crowded areas.

Where Kids Can Have Fun Without the Wait

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland has something for everyone. Young children can experience gentle rides and soft play, but the older children may prefer fairground attractions, the ice slide, or ice skating. With plenty of snack stands scattered throughout, it’s easy to spend a couple of hours there without needing a detailed plan.

Nearby, the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden gets into the festive spirit by dressing up its sets for winter. Fans can wander through the actual movie sets, and the special “Hogwarts in the Snow” display runs through December. This tour is incredibly popular, so booking ahead is essential. It’s easy to reach by car or direct transport from central London.

Indoor Activities When the Weather Turns

If the weather’s not cooperating, there are plenty of great indoor options. Museums like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum have interactive exhibits that kids love. Entry is free, although some special exhibitions might require a ticket.

During December, London theaters also offer holiday-themed shows. Most are family-friendly, featuring fairy tale retellings or shorter performances perfect for younger audiences. The Lyric Hammersmith and Unicorn Theatre are especially known for their festive, kid-friendly productions this time of year.

Getting around London in winter

London remains relatively well linked during December, but journeys take a little longer due to holiday traffic and increased crowds at popular places. It is worth purchasing weekend and school holiday tickets in advance.

Getting Around London on Public Transport

The Tube, buses, and local trains operate mainly on their regular timetables for the whole of December, with only a few alterations near Christmas and New Year. To pay, the simplest options are contactless payment or an Oyster card — both can be used on buses, the Underground, and most trains.

At rush hour and near popular shopping districts, the trains and Tube can get extremely packed. To avoid waiting in long lines, avoid the morning and evening peaks. Buses may be slower because of traffic, but they are convenient for short distances and let you see the city on the surface.

For tourists, certain central stations are particularly helpful during December. King’s Cross links well to the north of London and has trains to other cities. Paddington is the western gateway, and Victoria is ideal for reaching Westminster or Kensington.

When to Consider Hiring a Car

If you are staying in the center of London, chances are you won’t need a car. However, if you are with children or have a lot of luggage, renting a car can be convenient.

If you’re arriving by air and intend to drive within the suburbs, it’s best to rent a car at the airport. Europcar is one of several companies that have car rentals available at Heathrow, Gatwick, and other London airports. If your journey begins in city center, you can also rent a car from Europcar in the city center.

Driving around London in December is possible, but remember holiday traffic and weather conditions may cause you to slow down. Also, check whether your journey takes you through congestion charge or low-emission zones—these occupy much of central London.

A rental car is really handy if you’re planning day trips outside the city—to places like Windsor, Oxford, or the countryside in Kent and Surrey. It’s definitely worth it if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of bags.

Planning your trip: where to stay and what to expect

Hotels become reserved earlier during this period of the year, particularly in areas near holiday destinations or railway stations with airport links.

Most visitors opt to reside near Covent Garden, Soho, or the South Bank. These areas are within walking distance, near markets and shops, and offer instant access to Tube lines. If your trip includes evening shows, seasonal lights, or food tours, being nearby helps cut down on travel time. There’s also a mix of hotel styles in these neighborhoods. You’ll find your own!

For families, it’s convenient to remain close to Paddington, Victoria, or King’s Cross. These locations are on the main lines and make it easier to get around with suitcases or strollers. There are also more hotels with family rooms and direct bus and mainline train access.

December stays tend to be more expensive during the last ten days of the month. If you’re flexible, the first two weeks offer better rates and fewer crowds at key attractions. Some travelers also choose to stay just outside central London for a quieter experience and take a short car ride each day.

FAQ: Planning your winter holiday in London

Is London worth a visit in December?

Yes, if seasonal celebrations are your thing and you’re not bothered with colder climates. Christmas markets and lights come in with December. Visitors can go for the ambiance and celebration rather than the weather itself.

Will it snow in London during December?

It’s rare in central London for it to snow in December. Light snow would fall maybe once or twice, but more likely in January or February. It’s much more typical for there to be rain and grey weather this time of year.

How cold is it in London during December?

Temperatures range from 3°C to 9°C (37°F to 48°F). Humidity and wind can cause temperatures to drop, particularly during the early morning and late evening. It very seldom snows but rains much.

What do I wear in London in December?

A decent coat, waterproof boots and layers are advisable. Indoor places are mostly heated, and thus it is sensible to be wearing items that can easily be shed once indoors. Scarves, hats and gloves are good for an early morning jog or outdoor activities.

Where do I sleep in London in December?

Hotel stay in Covent Garden, Soho or South Bank central areas allows easy walking to festive markets, theaters and public transport. These destinations are well developed and vibrant on winter vacations. If you’ve rented a car, ensure your hotel has a parking-lot.

Are most tourist destinations open over Christmas?

Most shops, galleries and museums are open right up to Christmas Eve itself. On December 25th, everything closes except for public transport. On Boxing Day, December 26th, most of the centers open again and it’s also a major shopping day.