Your Go-to Guide For Visiting London in Winter + Tips

aiherrera 0 Comments

A red double-decker bus travels through a city street decorated with illuminated angel-shaped lights at night.

Don’t let anyone fool ya, this capital is super exciting during the colder months even if it’s gray and freezing outside! If you don’t believe me, then hop on this quick guide on visiting London in Winter.

I’ve lived in London for a while, and I got to explore the city during the winter time and honestly, I loved it! The atmosphere, all the markets and festive vibes will make you fall in love with this place.

In this post, I’ve included everything you need to know about the best areas to stay and visit for fun activities, restaurants, hotels, events and many other things that I found when doing my research and that I experienced while I lived in the capital.

Since London is such a popular holiday destination, I’d recommend booking your hotel and event tickets in advance.

Overview

Check out the short list below which has some of the main things that I’ll cover in the post:

Best Hotels: Brown’s Hotel (luxury), Z Hotel Covent Garden (mid-range), The Belgrave Hotel (budget)
Best Restaurant: Bouchon Racine (map)
Top Activity: Winter Wonderland Hyde Park
Unmissable Event: Hogwarts in the Snow
Temperature: 48°F – 41°F (9°C 5°C)
Time of Year: December to February

1. Why visit London in Winter

A view of Big Ben at sunset, surrounded by festive decorations and lights, with a partly cloudy sky in the background.

The capital becomes irresistible during winter-time! It’s not just the Christmas things but also what comes afterwards. There are tons of reasons why you should visit London in winter and I made a short list below with the most important ones:

After the holidays (from Jan onwards) everything is super cheap, from hotels to plane tickets to store sales, it becomes a budget traveler’s dream
It’s not so crowded once the holiday craziness is over
You can attend all the famous Christmas Markets
There are lots of holiday-themed shows and museums exhibits that you can attend
Attending events for New Year’s Eve or Fashion Week

2. Where to stay in London

A city street at night with festive lights hanging above. Strand Palace Hotel is on the right, and buildings line the road. A black car is parked by the curb.

Looking for an amazing hotel for your stay in London during the winter time? Then check out this short list I’ve put together below. Or you could also look at this post featuring the coolest hotels in London, where you’ll find some really unique spots.

Luxury: Brown’s Hotel – set on Regent Street (where they have the most amazing Christmas lights), this hotel has a unique design and has hosted some incredible guests like Queen Victoria!
Mid-range: Z Hotel Covent Garden – centrally-located, this hotel offers rooms with a comfy bed and a flat-screen Tv.
Budget: The Belgrave Hotel – a simple yet modern hotel that comes with a bar, a fitness center and a great location in Westminster near some of the town’s biggest attractions.

3. Where to go in London in winter

Snowy scene of Tower Bridge in London at night, featuring illuminated bridge, snow-covered tree, benches, and sidewalk.

We’ve seen the hotels, now let’s see some of the best areas that you might consider for your holiday. Whether you just want to visit most of them or stay in a hotel set in one of them, these neighborhoods should definitely be on your London in Winter itinerary:

If you want to learn more each of these areas, check out this post on where to stay in London:

Covent Garden – a great place to stay for any first-timer in London, this area is home to lots of attractions, a cool market and pubs where you can enjoy some drinks
Westminster & Victoria – home to attractions like Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace these areas are perfect for those who want to dive deep into the city’s culture
South Bank & Southwark – scoring a hotel here means you might enjoy some nice views of River Thames, you’ll also find some cool attractions like Borough Market, the London Eye and the Shard
Soho – perfect for those who want to enjoy the city’s nightlife, Soho is a vibrant area packed with pubs, bars and theaters where you can catch some fab shows
Camden Town – artsy people will love this area in North London that offers countless attractions like the famous Camden Market, lots of vintage shops, food stalls and museums
Kensington & Chelsea – these 2 incredible areas are known for their luxurious hotels, iconic museums and Kensington Palace
Shoreditch & Spitalfields – another amazing area for artsy people where you’ll find many vintage stores, markets, street art and a vibrant nightlife
City of London – if you like modern buildings like the Gherkin and the Walkie Talkie and that intense urban atmosphere then this area is for you
Notting Hill – a dreamy and super beautiful are that’s filled with gorgeous buildings and is home to one of the most popular markets (Portobello Road Market)

4. What to Do in London during Winter

Display of gingerbread houses, cookies, and themed textiles arranged on a table against a brick wall.

As I mentioned, London is packed with incredible activities and things to see during Winter. Below I’ll include some of the most amazing ones that you should try during the colder months.

Things to Do in London

Let’s start our list with some fun things to do in the city during winter!

The ones I included below are only for the colder months but if you’d like to see some more stuff for the other seasons, check out this post with things to do in London:

1. Have fun at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

A brightly lit carousel with colorful decorations sits next to a large Christmas tree adorned with lights. Flags flutter above the carousel on a bustling night.

Honestly, there’s no better way to kick off the festive season than with a trip to Winter Wonderland!

Set in London’s Hyde Park (map), a huge place, this annual Christmas fair is so much fun! I’ve attended it a few times now and each time I went it was more special.

The fair has countless food and drinks stalls, games, shows and rides that you’ll want to try. You can check out more details about the fair on their official website.

It usually starts around 20ish November and it remains open until the first week of January.

PRICE: US$7 (+ extra for activities within Winter Wonderland)

2. See the Christmas lights on Regent Street

A busy city street at night with ornate holiday lights, including glowing spheres and wing shapes, strung between historic buildings. Traffic creates light trails on the wet pavement.

Honestly, you can’t miss out on seeing the Christmas lights on Regent Street (map), a famous avenue located in Central London.

They look incredible and the whole vibe is magical thanks to the architecture of the buildings and the lights which are so special.

Usually, they are turned on from the first week of November and remain until the first week of January.

By the way, if you’re interested in exploring more iconic streets like this one, check our post with the best streets in London, where I included many others.

3. Check out the Christmas lights at Kew Garden

A brightly lit structure with blue and white star patterns is reflected in a body of water at night.

The Royal Botanic Garden is a place that you should visit no matter the season, as it is beautiful!

However, during the holiday season (from mid-November to 5 January) the garden becomes a beacon of light for its visitors! Lighting up the whole place with colors of red, green, purple and so many others.

As you get there you’ll follow a trail of lights and along the way, you’ll find independent shops selling warm drinks and yummy festive food. So beautiful!

PRICE: from US$32

4. Attend all the amazing Christmas Markets

People gather at a festive market stall selling bratwurst in front of a grand building with columns under a cloudy sky.

As any other big capital, London has a couple of Christmas Markets, and most of them are set in Squares in the city’s central area.

I included a short list below along with the date when it starts. However, these may change so double-check on Google Maps before going as it usually shows if the market is open.

As for the closing, most of these markets run until early January, probably around 5-10 Jan.

Covent Garden Christmas Market (map) – usually starts Nov 12
Leicester Square Christmas Market (map) – from Nov 6
Winter by the River at London Bridge City (map) – from mid-November
King’s Cross Christmas Markets (map) – from the last week of November

5. Go ice-skating

People ice skating in front of a historic building with a large decorated Christmas tree nearby, under a cloudy sky.

Get your blood warm and some exercise done while ice-skating on some of London’s most amazing rinks!

The town has a handful of fab places that undoubtedly you’ll love! I’ve included them below along with the map.

Hampton Court Palace (map) – open from 22 Nov to 5 Jan
Somerset House (map) – open from 13 Nov to 12 Jan
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (map) – open from 20 Nov to 5 Jan
Canary Wharf Ice Rink (map) – from 26th Oct to 23rd Feb
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink (map) – open all year round

6. See London New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Fireworks illuminate the night sky above Tower Bridge in London, with the bridge raised and people watching from the riverside.

If you’re in town during New Year’s Eve then you’ll probably want to attend the famous fireworks show.

In order to see the fireworks, you’ll need to get a ticket and you can do so on their official website. You’ll find different types of tickets there, each with different pricing that will vary depending on the view that you’ll get of the fireworks.

You can also check this map on their website that shows exactly which position each ticket offers.

PRICE: from US$124 to US$325

7. Celebrate the Chinese New Year

Performers in red and gold costumes participate in a dragon dance on a city street, surrounded by a crowd of onlookers.

The celebrations for the Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year) usually fall between late January and mid-February, so if you’re visiting during that time, definitely check them out.

Usually, the festivities take place in London’s West End (an area that consists of Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square, Oxford Street and Mayfair). But to start off you can head to Chinatown (map) where you can eat some yummy food.

Then, head to Leicester Square (map), where you’ll find more activities and Trafalgar Square (map) where most of the entertainment is.

Holiday events to attend

A model of a magical castle with towers and lights, surrounded by rocky terrain and snow.

Around the holidays there are tons of fun events to attend that’ll get you in the festive mood! Here are some you should check out:

The Nutcracker – watch the English National Ballet perform one of the most iconic ballet plays, for which you can buy tickets from their official website
A Sherlock Carol – get in the Christmas mood while watching Sherlock solve yet another mystery right on Christmas eve at the Marylebone Theatre London, you can check out their website for tickets
Hogwarts in the Snow – is there anything more magical than attending Christmas at Hogwarts? Now you can do that at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London (usually from mid-November to the first week of Jan), if you want more info on how to get tickets, check out our post on how to buy tickets for the studio

Day trips from London

Exterior of Blenheim Palace illuminated in purple lights at night, with trees decorated for the holidays and

There are tons of spots that you can visit on a day trip from London!

Luckily you can get some pretty fast trains (just watch out for any announced strikes, as these can happen) to nearby cities and not only enjoy the amazing snowy landscapes (if you’re lucky to get some snow) but also visit new places.

Of course, you can also rent a car and get where you want much faster. Just make sure you’re comfortable with driving on the right-hand side. And if you’re not you could also take day-trip tours, there are tons that leave from London!

Here are some amazing locations that you’ll love to visit in Winter:

Blenheim Palace – set 2h away from London this palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire becomes the most magical place around the holidays: light trails, ice-skating, a small Christmas Market and many other things will be waiting for you
York – it takes 2h to get to York from London by train and you’ll definitely want to go there not only for the incredible history but also to attend their Christmas Market (on from mid Nov to the 24th of Dec)
Bath – one of the most touristy spots the country, Bath becomes even more amazing during Christmas when the market is one (usually from the end of Nov to mid December), the city is set 2h away from London
Oxford – set only 1h and 15 min away by train from London, this town is definitely a place that you’ll want to see not only during winter! Besides all the incredible attractions you’ll also find a Christmas Market (from 15th Nov to 22 Dec)
Day trip tour to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – this is a great tour that lasts the whole day and that will take you some incredible places! If you have a short time in the city and want to see more of the country, I’d definitely sign up

5. Where to Eat & Drink

A patio heater is next to a table with chairs, illuminated by red and white Christmas lights on a nearby tree.

Looking for some spots to grab a bite and preferably a warm drink (or something stronger) during those cold winter months? Then check out this list which has some of the best dining spots in the city:

Bouchon Racine (map) – in the mood for some French food? If so, try this place that has such a great menu
Akoko (map) – if you’ve ever wanted to give African cuisine a try then definitely head to this restaurant that’s set in Central London, their dishes are absolutely delicious
The Alchemist (map) – one of my favorite coffee spots with locations all over the city, if you’re looking for more cafes in the city maybe somewhere you can work remotely, check out our post with best cafes to work in London
Riding House (map) – perfect for a long brunch, this spot in Fitzrovia serves everything from eggs, to burgers and pancakes
St. John (map) – set in Farringdon this British restaurant will definitely change any preconceptions you might’ve had about British cuisine
Dim Sum Duck (map) – nothing like some Chinese food to get you warm on a cold winter day! This place in King’s Cross is definitely worth a visit
Rochelle Canteen (map) – set in the former bike shed of a school this restaurant has a modern menu
Caravan (map) – with industrial chic decor, this City of London restaurant serves some mouth-watering brunch dishes
Chet’s (map) – set in Shepherd’s Bush area this Thai restaurant is the perfect place to hit after a day of exploring the cold streets of London
Bibi (map) – a simple name for a restaurant in Mayfair that serves minimalistic yet delicious South Asian dishes
Luci (map) – pasta and pizza on a cold day? Yes, please! This Covent Garden Italian restaurant is ready to make you feel as if you’ve taken a short escapade to land delicious food
Granger & Co (map) – one of my favorite brunch spots in London! I’ve had some of the best pancakes here, so definitely give this place in Chelsea a go

6. What to Wear in London during Winter

A person in a coat and hat holds a green cup, standing in front of a red double-decker bus on a city street.

Not sure what to pack for this holiday? I know, it’s never easy! But luckily, today I’ll help you out with this list of items that for sure you’ll need when visiting London in Winter.

Winters can get pretty cold in London! Between December and February, the average high temperature is 48°F (9°C) and the average low is 41°F (5°C). Still, it can get colder than that and sometimes it even snows!

Here’s a website where you can check the temperatures:

Sweaters – I never go on a trip without sweaters, I’d definitely pack a few warm ones from natural materials
Wool jumpers – these wool jumpers will keep you warm, especially if you wear them with something underneath
Blouses – take some of these as you’ll need them for layering
Thick socks – these winter socks will keep your feet super warm so pack a few
Thermal vest – these vests are always great for the days when you’re just outside exploring the streets, market or going ice-skating
Boots – good-quality boots that are comfortable are my go-to for winter trips in the city
Coat or puffer jacket – whether you prefer something more sporty or elegant, get one that’s of high-quality to keep you warm
Wool scarf – I always have a wool scarf in my day bag just in case I get cold, they’re amazing for keeping your neck protected
Headwear – you’ll definitely want a thick beanie so that your head won’t freeze especially on the days you’re just out and about exploring the city
Gloves – I’d pack a pair of gloves and just have it on me whenever going out
Backpack/bag/fanny pack – something small and comfy where you can carry your keys, wallet, etc

7. How to Get Around

A red double-decker bus and other vehicles navigate a snowy street in front of a historical red brick building.

When it comes to getting around London, there’s no shortage of options! Here are all the ones that you can use:

Bus – probably the cheapest way to get around the city
Tube – this is always a good idea when you need to get somewhere fast and not waste too much time on the road
Bike – there are loads of spots around the city where you can rent out bikes and explore around
Train – you’ll mostly use trains if you’re taking day trips or visiting the outskirts of London
Welcome pickups – you could also use this platform and book a driver that will take you to all the attractions you want, wait while you visit and then head to the next one
Uber – these might be a bit expensive but worth using if it’s dark and you don’t want to walk to a place alone or if it’s way too cold

❄️ Best activity:	Winter Wonderland Hyde Park
📍 Top area:	Covent Garden
🏨 Best hotel:	Brown’s Hotel
🍲 Top restaurant:	Bouchon Racine (map)
🤩 Unmissable event:	Hogwarts in the Snow

FAQs about visiting London in winter

Festive scene at night with a large Christmas tree adorned with red ornaments and lights, people gathering around, and an illuminated historic building in the background.

🔝Is London worth visiting in winter?

Yes! During Winter London offers so many festive (and not only) activities, fun attractions, markets and shows that you can attend.

❄️ Is it too cold to visit London in December?

It’s not too cold but you’ll definitely need thick clothes, puffer jackets (or coats) and all the necessary winter clothing accessories, if you want to spend a lot of time outside.

🤔 Is London too crowded in December?

Yes, London can get pretty crowded in December, as locals and tourists are out and about in the markets and shopping streets.

💸 Is London expensive in December?

It depends. Before and after Christmas you might actually find better deals on hotels in London, while right on Christmas and NYE, you’ll probably pay more for accommodation.