Christmas events in London – 2025

Are you looking for some fun Christmas events in London for the 2025 winter months? Perhaps you want to treat a loved one, your family, or simply soak in the Christmassy atmosphere that transforms the streets of London at the end of every year? Here’s an up-to-date list of activities and events you won’t want to miss out on!

Where is the most Christmassy place in London?

When the holiday season approaches, Covent Garden transforms into a festive wonderland filled with stunning Christmas trees, decorations, and lively Christmas markets. With its twinkling lights and vibrant atmosphere, it’s undeniably one of the most Christmassy places in London.

The best news? That's where Brigit's Bakery is! Nestled on Chandos Place in the heart of Covent Garden, our bakery offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, featuring a charming ambiance that perfectly complements the festive spirit. You can indulge in our renowned afternoon tea, featuring a selection of freshly baked sweets and savoury treats, all crafted by expert French pastry chefs.

Our delicious and exclusive Christmas-themed afternoon tea menu will also be available during the festive period, so if you've spent the day sipping mulled wine, browsing the Christmas markets, or are simply Christmas shopping in the area, make sure you come and pay us a visit. You can book your table here.

What is there to do in London for Christmas?

The Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

If you're looking to spend Christmas in London this year and want something special, then our Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus tour should be at the top of your list. Experience the festive magic as you check out the Christmas lights while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea on one of our beautiful vintage double-decker Routemaster buses. Just hop on, indulge in our unique Christmas-inspired afternoon tea menu, sip on your tea or coffee (or relax with a glass of bubbly), and let us take care of the rest.

As always, this year's Christmas-inspired menu includes a range of tasty freshly-prepared sandwiches and a festive assortment of mini cakes and tarts. Here's our full Christmas menu. And if you have any dietary requirements or preferences, as with all our bus tours, we also offer alternative menus, including Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, and Halal.

Booking your tickets couldn't be easier. Simply use our online system to choose your date, time, seat, and any specific requirements. Prosecco or Champagne are not included in the price but can be pre-ordered online.

Christmas events in London with kids

If you're looking for specific family Christmas experiences in London, you'll love our tours - they're the most unique Christmas activities in London for kids!

The Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour

Visiting London with kids during the festive season is a magical experience, and our Peppa Pig Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour promises just that. With Christmas decorations and delicious Peppa Pig-inspired Christmas treats, we'll take your family past some of London’s most famous landmarks. And yes, this is indeed the perfect, stress-free way to enjoy the festive sights of London!

Our chefs have created a special Peppa Pig Christmas-themed afternoon tea menu to delight kids and grown-ups alike. And with our Grandpa Pig’s Christmas Turkey & Tomato burger bun, our Suzy Sheep’s Snowy Snowball, and our Mummy Pig’s Naughty but Nice Macaron, we just know the menu is going to be a hit. To check availability and book, click here.

The Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Returning by popular demand, our Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour will depart three times a day from Victoria Coach Station and include the fabulous Regent Street lights as well as take you past some of London's most iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and much more.

Our talented chefs have designed an exclusive Grinch-themed menu that includes a 'Pucker up & eat it!' Spinach Quiche and an 'I hate Xmas' Chocolate Cupcake amongst other delicacies. You definitely don't want to miss out. Check out our full menu (and alternative menus) here.

The PAW Patrol Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

For young adventurers, our PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour is an exciting mission where children (and their grown ups) can help Mayor Goodway find her beloved chicken, Chickaletta, while enjoying an afternoon tea on a classic red Routemaster bus. The tour is filled with iconic views of London, with unique mission screens on every table that guide young guests through fun puzzles and challenges. You'll get to to see the King's Road Christmas Lights display on this tour, along with Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree and the Battersea Power Station Christmas display. Each child also receives a PAW Patrol Activity Book and a special edition travel cup as a souvenir.

The Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

If you're looking for a rare and unforgettable Christmas experience for your little cubs, then bear with us and join us on a Paddington Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. Introduced in 2022, our themed Paddington tour is the paw-fect way to enjoy the festive sight of London (including the famous Regent Street Christmas lights) on a beautifully-decorated, twinkling Classic Routemaster Bus.

Each table comes with a special built-in screen providing guests with a Paddington-guided animation of the tour of London featuring the nation's favourite bear and the lovely Mrs. Bird. And if that wasn't enough, our chef created a paw-lickin’ Paddington-themed afternoon tea menu featuring the best marmalade sandwich ever!

Available daily, the tour will depart twice daily from Trafalgar Square. Please note, if you want to see the Christmas light, make sure you book the 5:30 pm tour.

MONOPOLY Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

For a truly unique twist on sightseeing, hop aboard our MONOPOLY Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. Nothing screams Christmas more than 'family board games', and this immersive experience combines the luxurious elements of a traditional afternoon tea with the nostalgia of this iconic game.

As you settle into your seat on our vintage Routemaster bus, you'll be taken on a 90-minute journey through Central London, where you’ll see real-life locations inspired by the game’s streets. Along the way, enjoy a delightful selection of MONOPOLY-themed treats served on stylish tiers, including savoury finger sandwiches, mouth-watering cakes, and other delicious snacks.

You'll also get involved in property challenges and fun puzzles that allow you to buy properties and charge rent while marvelling at famous sights like Trafalgar Square, Fleet Street, and more. Whether you're reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, this tour provides a fun and interactive way to explore the city. Perfect for ages 5+, it’s an adventure for families, friends, and couples alike.

Christmas activities in London for adults

The Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Another option for the festive season (and beyond) is our Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, the perfect treat for adults wishing to indulge in a sophisticated outing. In collaboration with the premium gin brand Bombay Sapphire, this exclusive tour offers a chance to sip on beautifully crafted gin cocktails while enjoying our afternoon tea delights.

Held on Fridays and Saturdays, this adult-only tour is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. As you cruise through London’s iconic landmarks, you’ll savour not only classic gin and tonics but also innovative gin-infused cakes - a real treat for your taste buds. Every detail is thought through to create a beautiful atmosphere where you and your friends can relax, unwind, and enjoy the festive spirit.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this tour promises an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, great company, and, of course, exceptional gin!

What are the best places to visit in London at Christmas?

Beyond our bus tours, London offers Christmas parties and loads of dazzling illuminations around the city. You won't want to miss the Christmas lights in Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, and of course, Covent Garden, where you can come and visit Brigit's Bakery for brunch, afternoon tea, or a light bite to eat.

What is the best Christmas show in London?

Christmas shows in London are a must-see! From classic performances, festive pantomimes, and ballets, there’s something for everyone during the holiday season. If you're watching the Paddington musical, you can now also book our brand new pre-theatre Paddington Afternoon Tea at Brigit's Bakery in Covent Garden.

You'll step into a world of marmalade magic in our Jungle Room, transformed into a cosy corner of Peru right in the heart of London. This unique experience is perfect for families and small groups, making it the ultimate way to kick off your Paddington day out. It's available for a limited time only, in line with the Paddington musical running at the Savoy theatre, so remember to book at least 24 hours in advance!

Where is the best place to enjoy Christmas by the river in London?

The South Bank is an ideal place to enjoy Christmas by the river. You can also experience pop-up Christmas markets, see the lights, and indulge in festive treats while taking in the stunning views of the Thames, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.

What is open on Christmas Day in London?

If you're wondering what's open on Christmas Day in London, the answer is that a lot of establishments will be closed! So be sure to check in advance as certain restaurants and attractions may be open but during limited hours. And if you're looking for a Christmas party venue, make sure you do your research and book well in advance.

Have you made your NYE plans yet?

If you haven't made any New Year's Eve plans yet, it's not too late. We have a range of bus tours running on the day (the latest one at 5:30 pm) and seats are still available. This is your chance to book your tour, so don't miss out!

More Christmas events in London

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a family-friendly destination filled with rides, games, ice skating, and vibrant market stalls that make for a fantastic day out.
• For a magical evening stroll, you can explore the illuminated trails at Syon Park's Enchanted Woodland in Brentford or the stunning lights at Kew Gardens.
• Or if you're in the mood for some seasonal skating, head over to Skate at Somerset House, where you can enjoy contemporary music, lovely food, and festive drinks.
• Celebrate the season with Christmas carols and classical music recitals at iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall and Lambeth Palace.
• And don't forget to visit Hogwarts in the Snow at the Warner Bros. Studio, where you can wander through the enchanting Forbidden Forest and see the Great Hall dressed for the festive feast, making it a truly magical holiday experience!

So, which Christmas events in London will you pick this year?