You can find even more things to do in London with Kids all year round here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Please note this post is being continuously updated with Christmas event dates for 2025<\/em><\/p>\n [ez-toc]<\/p>\n Christmas at Kew is simply phenomenal and has been our top activity for Christmas in London with kids. <\/p>\n The hour and a half night time trail around the park is a feast for the sense with over a million lights, lasers and seasonal sounds. <\/p>\n Every tree is lit up in a variety of stunning colours, not to mention dancing lakeside reflections and glittering tunnels of light!<\/p>\n It’s the perfect evening out with the children over the festive period, exploring the Christmas lights trail<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n There will also be street vendors dotted around the trail tempting you with delicious festive treats and ‘spiced winter warmers’ for the parents and hot chocolates for the kids.<\/p>\n This is also a great alternative Christmas party idea, I did this with work one year and it made for a nice change over the sometimes stuffy sit-down meal.<\/p>\n You can get mulled wine and hot apple cocktails along the trail, and there is also a kids’ fun fair area with classic rides. What a fantastic evening out!<\/p>\n Tickets need to be purchased well in advance and booking is required this year. The ticket portal helpfully indicates peak and non peak times. <\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 14th November 2025 – 4th January 2026 To find out more information and to buy tickets click here.<\/strong> <\/a><\/p>\n Al the Polar Bear is at Sea Life London<\/a><\/strong> is on a mission to protect our planet this Christmas. Join Al the Polar Bear for his festive story time and discover how the melting Arctic is changing his home. <\/p>\n Take part in an interactive story time full of festive fun, ocean facts, and ways you can help protect our planet this Christmas.<\/p>\n This is a great opportunity for little ones to learn about the world’s oceans and their inhabitants and meet some of the incredible Arctic animals.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong>\u00a07th -24th December 2025 Discover the festive fun at Sea Life London this December.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Shrek’s The Halls <\/strong><\/a>is popular with little ones. On arrival, kids put on 4-D glasses and take a magical tour on a bus. Things are a little different this time of year for this Family-friendly Shrek the Halls.<\/p>\n London on the South Bank<\/a>,<\/strong> offers a holiday grotto inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s cherished Christmas special, Shrek the Halls.<\/p>\n Let the big green ogre bring a unique and festive misadventure for the entire family to enjoy, replacing Santa with a dose of yuletide cheer.<\/p>\n Shrek Santa has got into the festive spirit and is dressed for the occasion, so guests can snap a selfie with the big green ogre in person and receive a complimentary Christmas card \u2013 all included in the standard ticket price!<\/p>\n Shrek’s Adventure is on the Southbank beside the Sea Life aquarium and the London Eye. Shrek Santa gives a candy treat and a photo with him, which is included in the price. <\/p>\n When:<\/strong> dates TBC Book your tickets to Shrek’s Adventure online here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n The London Eye<\/a><\/strong> is one of London’s Iconic places to visit. This Christmas they have gone all out with the a bespoke Christmas light-up design, set to wow and dazzle it’s guests.<\/p>\n As the night draws in, hop aboard the London Eye and watch the night sky come alive! Marvel at the glittering cityscape, with stunning views of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and more.<\/p>\n The London Eye will be decorated with twinkly lights and garlands, it is the perfect place to take a family selfie, and a memorable evening for all.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong>\u00a0Nov – 6th January 2026 Check out this Festive Christmas Experience at the London Eye.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Join this culturally rich Christmas walking tour<\/strong><\/a>, where you can delve into the world of Dickens and the rich history of Christmas in London.<\/p>\n This small group is limited to 6 people where you will uncover hidden alleyways, taverns and courtyards you might otherwise have missed.<\/p>\n Follow in Scrooge’s footsteps throughout London and discover cosy London pubs whilst garnering new knowledge and attention to finer details.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> various dates Book the Christmas Carol and Charles Dickens Small Walking Group here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Kids love to look at the Christmas lights<\/strong><\/a>. It feels magical to them and us! If you wrap up warm then why not take a walk around London and look at the lights and stunning views.<\/p>\n For older kids, you may want a guide to take you to the hidden gems in London. A walking tour is perfect. Explore unique Christmas gems around Covent Garden, the Strand, and Trafalgar Square. <\/p>\n It is a great way to get into the swing of things and see some less known about sights. <\/p>\n When:<\/strong> various dates Find out more information here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Visit some of the top attractions sitting on top of a vintage open double-decker bus<\/a>,<\/strong> you\u2019ll have the best seats in the house to experience the glowing Christmassy streets of London.<\/p>\n Watch the city light up when the sun goes down, and see how London does Christmas.<\/p>\n The journey starts from the illuminated London Eye<\/a>,<\/strong> and onto the iconic Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Marvel at the exquisite displays in Buckingham Palace and St Paul\u2019s Cathedral.<\/p>\n What better way to combine this experience and travel around the city looking at the lights and displays at Christmas. The bus is decorated for the occasion and a guide is there to crack a few jokes along the way.<\/p>\n Cross the magical Tower Bridge and hear all about the historic Tower of London. Cruise through the winding streets of London and feel dazzled by the merry d\u00e9cor. <\/p>\n Take your pick between a live or audio guide to learn some jolly facts about each location.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> various dates from 17th November – 30th December 2025 For more information about the Christmas Lights Bus tour click here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n If you or your kids are Harry Potter fans, this will be the ultimate bucket list experience. In December the Harry Potter studio tour is transformed into a festive wonderland, Hogwarts in the Snow.<\/p>\n Think towering snow-covered Christmas trees in the great hall to meticulously decorated Diagon Alley with its snowy shop fronts and cobbled pathways.<\/p>\n An extra special after-hours event is planned including a Christmas dinner in the great hall.<\/p>\n You and your kids will get to experience a two-course Christmas dinner sitting at house tables surrounded by wizarding Christmas decor. <\/p>\n When you’re finished eating, you can attend the Disco and explore the studio, visiting all the spots on the tour. You’ll also get to taste a butterbeer and see Hogwarts in the snow!<\/p>\n When:<\/strong>\u00a015th November 2025 – 18th January 2026 You can buy tickets for the Harry Potter studio tour here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Underbelly is back for another year this Christmas in Leicester Square, think Christmas markets<\/a>, <\/strong>delicious street food and outdoor venues serving up all the festive favourites.<\/p>\n There will also be entertainment from the famous La Clique cabaret but is more suited to ages 16 yrs and over. <\/p>\n When:<\/strong>\u00a01st November 2025 – 4th January 2026 The Strand Palace Hotel<\/a> <\/strong>will hold a Children’s Christmas afternoon tea in London’s West End. The tea starts from \u00a325 on weekdays and \u00a330 for weekends (up to 12 years of age) which includes a variety of festive fare and live entertainment.<\/p>\n Make sure to try the hand-crafted snowman cake. Enjoy a tier of sandwiches, featuring savoury and sweet Christmas gourmet treats. <\/p>\n This enchanting afternoon experience is the ideal way for the family to celebrate the festive season in London.<\/p>\n Find out more information here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This year Hampton Court Palace<\/a> <\/strong>will be transformed into a food lover’s Christmas Wonderland with the return of the Festive Fayre.<\/p>\n Soak up the Christmas atmosphere at the palace as you eat, drink, shop and be merry, with entertainment from the East Front bandstand. <\/p>\n With various delights from Christmas pudding to sausages, and brownies to churros, the hand-picked artisan producers and companies will be showcasing their most delicious fare.<\/p>\n Entry to the Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre is included in your Hampton Court Palace admission ticket. HRP members go free with pre-booking.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 05-07 December and 12-14 December 2025. To find out more information or to book tickets click here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust <\/strong><\/a>is hosting a number of festive family fun days throughout December (Saturdays and Sundays only).<\/p>\n Expect a range of fun activities:<\/p>\n This is the perfect day out to immerse yourself in the festive spirit in the great outdoors. There will be a small additional cost for some of these activities.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 6 & 7, 13 & 14, and 20 & 21 December 2025 During Christmas in London with Kids, you are likely to come across the many ice-skating rinks that open up during the festive period. I love ice-skating! <\/p>\n We took Esm\u00e9 to a skating rink a few years ago. In truth, she was probably too young for it. <\/p>\n I think close to three years old is a good age. However, if you like to start them young, many places have penguin helpers for little ones to keep their balance.<\/p>\n Equally, they do not wear ordinary ice-skating boots. Instead, they wear double blades strapped onto their own shoes. Make sure to check if your rink of choice provides both and book them in advance.<\/p>\n This year, there are outdoor ice rinks at Hampton Court Palace<\/a><\/strong> and Hyde Park<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n For the second time this year, Brent Cross Shopping Centre has already launched Brent on Ice<\/strong><\/a> from the 4th of November.<\/p>\n The Fujifilm House of Photography<\/a><\/strong> will host an interactive and festive photo adventure, transforming visitors into a North Pole setting.<\/p>\n Activities include meeting Santa, DIY Christmas crafts, festive games, a photo booth, an elf workshop, and a Christmas-themed post office.<\/p>\n Visitors can enjoy creating and mailing personalised photo-based Christmas cards and letters to Santa. Each session lasts 30 minutes, including a 3-minute visit with Santa.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 14-24 December 2025 The Natural History Museum<\/a> <\/strong>is holding a Dino Snores event for both kids and adults. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where kids get to explore the museum at night with torches. There are a ton of other educational and fun activities planned.<\/p>\n The event is for children between 7 and 11 years and there is a required number of adults who must attend. If parents are not accompanying their children, a consent form must be signed. <\/p>\n As children are sleeping at the museum, they must bring a sleeping bag, a pillow and some other items.<\/p>\n All items are listed on their website.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> various dates Click here for more information or to book a ticket to Dino Snores<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This Christmas Legoland will be transforming into a twinkling winter wonderland. Make sure to get a photo in front of the giant Duplo Christmas tree before exploring over 30 rides and attractions to get you into the festive spirit.<\/p>\n Last year, there was a Duplo puppet show, Christmas Carols, snow-dusted trees and the big man himself roaming the park on his magical sleigh.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong>\u00a022nd November 2025 – 3rd January 2026 For tickets to Legoland click here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n There are so many Christmas pantomimes and theatre performances happening over the festive period in London. The most popular this year seems to be Aladdin.<\/p>\n In our family, growing up, my grandmother took all of the grandchildren to a Christmas pantomime in Dublin where we lived. I loved that tradition and it’s something I hope to carry on with my children.<\/p>\n A pantomime is a must-do when having Christmas in London with kids. A few examples of shows include Elf at Aldwych Theatre and The Potted Panto at Wilson’s Music Hall.<\/p>\n There are many other shows in suburban London which are less expensive and probably easier to secure tickets. <\/p>\n Find the best deals on theatre tickets around London here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n This charming, festive retelling of the classic childhood fairytale, Sleeping Beauty<\/strong><\/a>, comes to life on ice at the iconic Alexandra Palace.<\/p>\n Set against the glistening backdrop of our historic rink, this adaptation of the beloved fairy tale features graceful choreography, glittering costumes and the timeless magic of storytelling.<\/p>\n This is suitable for children aged 3+.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 4-8th December 2025 Peppa Pig<\/a><\/strong> has a fun day out at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The show is an hour and twenty minutes and promises to be full of laughter, games and songs.<\/p>\n Come along with Peppa, her family, and friends as they visit the zoo and beach for a special party\u2014it’s set to be a day filled with excitement and fun.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 5th November 2025 – 4th January 2026 Find out more information and tickets about Peppa Pig Fun Day Out click here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Eltham Palace is an amazing art deco mansion set in beautiful gardens, which comes to life with a festive spirit throughout December.<\/p>\n Enjoy this festive day out for the whole family, making magical memories as you explore the palace and enjoy festive activities.<\/p>\n Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree. <\/p>\n After the group storytelling session, you and your children will meet the man himself, with the chance to take photographs and make memories to treasure. Father Christmas will also give every child a traditional present to unwrap. <\/p>\n There are quieter sessions with Father Christmas available to book for those who need a lower stimulating environment. Please note visiting Father Christmas is an additional cost.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 29th November – 21st December 2025 Find out more details and book here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Christmas in London with kids would not be the same without visiting a pantomime!<\/p>\n The Potted Panto is a must-see performance, combining seven of your favourite classic pantomimes, bringing together the silliest and most hilarious stories to have you chuckling away. <\/p>\n This is the West End’s running pantomime, and it’s easy to see why it is so popular! There is a host of eclectic characters, bringing extra Christmas sparkle and chaos.<\/p>\n There is currently a “no booking fee” offer, so make sure to book the Potted Panto here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n When:<\/strong> 3rd December 2025 – 3rd January 2026 After last year’s 5-star reviewed The Holly King and the Oak King, award-winning immersive arts creators <\/strong>Wild Rumpus return to Battersea Arts Centre with a new family adventure.<\/p>\n Across Europe, mischievous Yuletide traditions have run riot and it\u2019s up to YOU to save Winter from chaos. Guided by the rousing \u2018Revolutionary Rabbit\u2019, wander through enchanted lands and meet characters intent on causing disruption to the most wonderful time of the year. <\/p>\n Find out more information here.<\/a> <\/strong>Performances take place throughout December.<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> various dates from 29th November 2025 – 24th December 2025 There are many Christmas markets<\/strong><\/a> oozing with festive smells of fir trees, cinnamon, cardamom and mulled wine. Mix it in with a fresh dose of cold air, and you have a true Christmas market experience.<\/p>\n I love sipping on the mulled wine as I wander around looking at little handmade gifts, winter woollies and all the festive foods. Esm\u00e9 enjoys tasting the samples and always seems content taking in the new sites and smells. <\/p>\n Most markets have attractions nearby whether its funfair style games to merry go rounds to keep the little ones content.<\/p>\n There are many Christmas Markets to choose from this year. Some of the best in the city are the Southbank Centre Winter Market, Leicester Square Christmas Market, Hyde Par<\/a>k<\/a><\/em><\/strong> and Greenwich Market.<\/p>\n![\"London](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-1-768x1024.jpg\")
Christmas In London With Kids<\/h2>\n
Christmas At Kew Gardens<\/h3>\n
![\"Kew](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-3-768x1024.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong> Kew Gardens, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE<\/p>\nSEA LIFE Storytime with Al the Polar Bear<\/h3>\n
Where:<\/strong> Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB<\/p>\nShrek The Halls!<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/ShrektheHalls-Photos6-1024x683.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong> Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB<\/p>\nThe London Eye: Christmas Lights<\/h3>\n
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Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB<\/p>\nA Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Walk<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/ChristmasinLondon25-1024x692.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong> meeting point, Temple Station, Temple Pl, Temple, London WC2R 2PH, UK<\/p>\nTour London’s Christmas Lights on Foot<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-77-919x1024.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> various locations, starting at Trafalgar Square<\/p>\nOpen-Top Christmas Lights Bus Tour<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-16-1024x576.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> Meet outside the Grand Hotel at 8 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BY.<\/p>\nHogwarts In The Snow<\/h3>\n
![\"Hogwarts](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/isabella-martine-UO_X0-zmfmw-unsplash-1-1024x768.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong>\u00a0Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR<\/p>\nChristmas In Leicester Square<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-47-1024x683.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong>\u00a080-81 St. Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N 4AA<\/p>\nIce Palace Afternoon Tea at Strand Palace<\/h4>\n
![\"christmas](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-62-1-1024x640.jpg\")
Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace<\/h4>\n
![\"Festive](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-60-819x1024.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU<\/p>\nFestive Fun at the WWT<\/h4>\n
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![\"Christmas](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-78-1024x640.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> WWT London, Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT<\/p>\nGo Ice-Skating<\/h3>\n
![\"Christmas](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/image-3.jpeg\")
Fujifilm House of Photography<\/h3>\n
![\"christmas](\"http:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/ChristmasInLondon25-1.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong> Fujifilm House of Photography, 8-9 Long Acre, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9LH.<\/p>\nThe Natural History Museum<\/h4>\n
![\"Christmas](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Free-Things-To-Do-In-London-With-Kids-25-1024x683.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD<\/p>\nLegoland At Christmas<\/h4>\n
![\"Christmas](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-74-1024x1015.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong>\u00a0LEGOLAND, Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 4AY<\/p>\nGo to a Christmas Pantomime or Musical Performance<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Christmas-in-London-with-Kids-26.jpg\")
Sleeping Beauty On Ice<\/h4>\n
Where:<\/strong> Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London, N22 7AY<\/p>\nPeppa Pig on Stage<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-65.jpg\")
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Where:<\/strong> Theatre Royal Haymarket, Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4HT<\/p>\nFestive Fun at Eltham Palace<\/h4>\n
![\"Christmas](\"http:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-in-London.jpg\")
Where:<\/strong> Eltham Palace, Court Rd, London SE9 5NP<\/p>\nPotted Panto<\/h4>\n
Where:<\/strong> Wilton’s Music Hall, 1 Graces Alley, London E1 8JB<\/p>\nThe Merry Misrule <\/h4>\n
Where:<\/strong> Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN<\/p>\n![\"Five](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/image-6.jpeg\")
Visit Christmas markets<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-15-1024x576.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/travelmadmum.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Christmas-In-London-With-Kids-63-1024x616.jpg\")