Zipcar in autumn near Victoria Park
Zipcar in autumn near Victoria Park

Things To Do in London in December

 

The most festive month of the year is here and there are a lot of magical things to do with friends and family. Tis’ the season to enjoy Christmas lights, markets, and many other fun events in London. If you want to learn more about festive things to do in London 2022, Zipcar has put together a list of exciting things to do. From some of the most enticing Christmas markets in the capital to enjoying the Christmas lights along famous London streets.

 

 

 

Christmas Lights in London

Christmas Lights at Carnaby Street

Christmas Lights at Carnaby Street

Christmas Lights at Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is world famous for its iconic Christmas installations, and this year Carnaby welcomes the world with an immersive installation. Visitors will see exciting elements of historic installations, incorporating 14 different themes. Features include neon lyrics from Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, glittering Rolling Stones tongues, and underwater scenes from the unforgettable Under The Sea!

Price: Free

Location: Carnaby Street

When: Everyday

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

 

Christmas Lights at Oxford Streets

Christmas Lights at Oxford Streets

Christmas Lights at Oxford Streets

One of London’s biggest shopping destinations is Oxford Street and during the festive period, their dazzling Christmas lights are switched on. Switched on in November, the display features 5,000 illuminated stars, lit up every night of the festive period. This is definitely one of the best things to do in London at Christmas. However, this year there is a small change and the stars will be lit up for a slightly shorter period of time than previous years in order to reduce energy usage amidst the cost of living crisis.


Price: Free

Location: Oxford Street

When: Everyday

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Christmas Lights at Covent Garden

Christmas Lights at Covent Garden

Christmas Lights at Covent Garden

This year, Covent Garden is set to be magical with their stunning decorations, heated al-fresco dining, famous Christmas tree and festive markets. For 2022 there will be a Covent Garden Christmas Sleigh, providing the ultimate festive photo moment. Wanting even more? Expect daily snow showers! Adding to the Covent Garden Christmas fun, this free experience is a must do for every family visit. Starting from 1st December from midday until 9pm, until the 31st of December.

 

Price: Free

Location: Covent Garden

When: Lights live everyday from 11am - midnight until 3rd January

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Christmas Markets in London

Covent Garden Winter Market

Covent Garden Winter Market

Covent Garden Winter Market

This year Covent Garden will have over 40 varieties of mulled wine  at The Winter Warmer Festival. Including hot chocolates, cocktails and a variety of delicious desserts. Visit Central Avenue for the Mulled Wine cart or the East Piazza for pop up vendors. From festive dining to exclusive pop ups, there are plenty of festive events to do for when you are out and about.  

 

Price: Free

Location: Covent Garden

When: Throughout December

 

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Leicester Square Christmas Market

If you want to immerse yourself in the festive season, we recommend Leicester Square Christmas Market. It is filled with plenty of entertainment, delicious food, drinks and theatre shows. You can book for the captivating cabaret, La Clique, in a huge Spiegeltent for eight weeks, open every Wednesday to Sunday and the occasional Tuesday. 



Price: Free

Location: Leicester Square

When: November 9, 2022 until January 8, 2023.

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Another market worth visiting in the festive season is the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market. There are over 20 stalls available, where you can indulge yourself in beautiful handmade goods such as Christmas tree ornaments and delicious street food. From mini pancakes, bratwurst and chips, to mulled wines, ciders and hot chocolate. This market is perfect at any day of the week as you can also make a day of it, enjoying The National Gallery, Covent Garden, and Big Ben which are alol close by. 

 

Price: Free

Location: Trafalgar Square

When: Until January 4, 2023.

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Fun Festive Events on in London This December

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew

Enjoy the festive season at the botanical world in Kew Gardens. Experience independent street food vendors offering tasty festive delights, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate.

Price: Off peak £21.50/ Peak £28.00. Book tickets here.

Location: Kew Gardens

When: November 16th - January 8th. Open from 4:20 to 20:00

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Hogwarts In The Snow

Hogwarts In The Snow

Hogwarts In The Snow

A family favourite and a must for every Harry Potter fan. Feel the warmth of the Gryffindor common room on Christmas Day, adorned with red and gold ornaments. The first snowfall of the season will cover the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and the magnificent Hogwarts castle model. Tickets must be booked in advance!


Price: £49.95. Book tickets here.

Location: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

When: November 12th - January 15th. Open from 9:30 to 22:00

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

Somerset House Ice Rink

Somerset House Ice Rink

Somerset House Ice Rink

The picture-perfect ice rink at Somerset House signals the start of the festive period with unrivalled skating, contemporary music, the perfect gift selection from Hotel Chocolat, and delicious food and drink. 



Price: From £10. Book tickets here.

Location: Somerset House

When: November 16th - January 15th. Open from 11 to 19:00

Getting there: Walk, cycle, tube it or drive with Zipcar

 

Don’t miss out on Christmas things to do in London with Zipcar

 

As one of the busiest periods of the year, getting to places and meeting people can be difficult at times, but with Zipcar you can be anywhere you want on-time and sometimes save some money too! There’s no congestion charges, no fuel, and no insurance to worry about - we cover that for you. Book and share a Zipcar with friends as you discover festive London, and all the events it has to offer.