24 Festive Hours in London

Traditional foodie markets brimming with tempting seasonal delights, Yuletide entertainment extravaganzas and world-class shopping; London has it all at Christmas, and then some. Be inspired in the British capital this winter with our superb itinerary for a festive 24 hours in London – it’ll leave you jingling all the way.

MORNING

Kick off your festive explorations in London by following in the footsteps of Kings and Queens – and prisoners – of yore at the historic Tower of London. You’ll get to soak up the dazzling colours of the incredible Crown Jewels, meet the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace & Fortress, and discover what London was like in medieval times. Even if you’re more Bambi than championship skater, get your skates on and go for a glide around the gorgeous open-air ice rink, framed by the castle.

AFTERNOON

To sample and buy traditional Christmas treats, make a beeline for Borough Market. A true foodie’s paradise, you’ll discover wonderful, gourmet British produce. Sip on a hot mulled wine loaded with cinnamon and spice as you weave in and out of stalls selling freshly baked mince pies, local cheeses and fine wines. The halls will be decked in cheery Christmas decorations, and you may even catch carol singers serenading the crowds.

If you’re after some last-minute gifts (or souvenirs to take back home), head to the heart of London’s shopping scene at Oxford and Regent Street. Here, iconic department stores Selfridges and Liberty sell a glittering array of items – their imaginative window displays are a sight to behold. If you’re looking for smaller, more independent boutiques, Covent Garden is your destination. For an indulgent splurge, venture west to Harrods in Knightsbridge.

EVENING

Each December, Hyde Park welcomes the seasonal spectacle that is Winter Wonderland. Bringing a little slice of the North Pole to London, Winter Wonderland is bedecked with frosty pine trees, shimmering lights and more entertainment than you can shake a Christmas tree at. From circus performances and fairground rides to winter markets selling trinkets and tipples galore, it’s London’s favourite Christmas experience.

Enjoy dinner at Winter Wonderland’s Bavarian Village, where you can dine on tasty bratwurst or flame-cooked salmon, or alternatively, savour a fine-dining meal at one of the UK’s best celebrity chef restaurants, such as Gordon Ramasy’s Heddon Street Kitchen in the heart of the bustling West End.

If you’d like to spend a festive 24 hours – or longer –  in London, click here to discover a seasonal Trafalgar trip!