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I love visiting London at any time of year, but at Christmas there is something particularly special about the capital city. From Christmas markets and Christmas shopping in London, to ice skating rinks, Winter Wonderland and festive events, there are lots of magical things to do at Christmas in London. This post will give you an idea as to why I love London at Christmas.

Why I Love London at Christmas

Christmas in London is really wonderful. Stunning lights on many of the busiest streets, festive events, Christmas markets with treats, gifts and delicious food, all are to help you soak up the festive atmosphere.

Visit Christmas Markets

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Christmas arrives in Hyde Park every winter, with free entry it means you can wander around to your heart’s content without spending a penny. Try to dodge the crowds by avoiding weekends and evenings. If you want to have a go on any of the funfair rides, go ice skating, buy some food and drink, or enter the ice kingdom, you’ll have to pay (and it isn’t cheap.)

Leicester Square

As with Winter Wonderland, you could spend a decent amount of money if you really want to, but otherwise it’s completely free to wander around the wooden chalets and food stalls whilst soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Southbank

Head to the Southbank for a multitude of festive fun. There’s a collection of wooden chalets decked in sparkling lights, right next to the river, stretching from City Hall to Tower Bridge.

Window Shopping and Displays

London’s department stores are some of the most festive places in the capital. The best four to visit are Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Liberty. Even if you’re not heading out to shop, their decorations and displays are a feast for the eyes. Selfridges is always my favourite place to stop – their window displays are works of art.

Another area definitely worth a visit is Covent Garden, the decorations are exquisite, and the shops and restaurants also add a bit of festive cheer.

See a Performance

The English National Ballet Christmas season has included The Nutcracker since 1950, each year the dancers bring to life Tchaikovsky’s eternally popular score.

A multitude of theatres show pantomimes at this time of year, with great audience participation and shouts of “He’s behind you!” the audience is promised a fun time for the whole family.

Christmas carollers from around the country travel to Trafalgar Square for two weeks in mid-December to perform beneath the Christmas tree in order to raise money for charities.

Do you love London at Christmas? Why?

Let me know in the comments.