Written by Amelia Hancock & Aashi Bains
With lights illuminating the street, markets popping up in every square, and tourists bustling through the city, it is clear the countdown to Christmas has begun. And if you’re feeling festive, London is the place to be. So bundle up, turn on your Christmas playlist, and head out to explore our recommendations!
London’s Christmas markets are a classic way to spend an evening during the festive season. While the food is often on the pricey side, the markets never fail to offer an amazing selection of sweet treats and dainty decorations. But if you’d rather avoid the usual crowds at Trafalgar Square and Southbank, try exploring Winter by the River this year. Located between London and Tower Bridge, the market offers the usual food stalls, a selection of unique gifts, as well as a cosy Glasshouse Terrace to sip drinks by the riverside – sheltered from the cold!
If you want to unlock your inner tourist and see the Christmas lights on some of London’s most renowned streets, why not hop on an open-top bus? Or if you’re looking for a slightly cheaper alternative, you can instead board the 139 at Oxford Street under the sea of celestial-themed lights. Marvel at the lights as the bus turns onto Regent’s Street, passing under the ceiling of angels and the famous Hamleys’ Christmas windows, before heading towards Picadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and down the Strand. If you fancy yourself a walking tour, consider adding in Carnaby Street, known for its changing annual theme. This year’s display, ‘All is Bright’, is vibrant, colourful, and one not to miss.
Widely considered London’s ultimate Christmas experience, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park really does have it all. Of course, you can still treat yourself to mulled wine and Bratwursts, but there’s so much more to enjoy beyond the food. Whether you’re prepared to brave exhilarating rides or take a peaceful journey down the ice slide (for the less adventurous of us), there’s something for everyone. If you’re in the mood to unwind, you can sit back and take in panoramic views of London from the Giant Wheel or put your skating skills to the test at the ice rink. Whether you crave an adrenaline rush or just a bit of everything, Winter Wonderland is always a perfect option.
London is home to many of the most iconic Christmas film scenes, so for any movie lovers, why not visit some of the following spots? Starting with a staple, Love Actually was filmed across the city. You can also visit Grosvenor Chapel in Mayfair, where Peter and Juliet got married, or St Luke’s Mews in Notting Hill, which houses the cobbled street of colourful homes where Mark declared his undying love. Although a little farther from central London, Rainham Hall provided the backdrop for the BBC’s 2019 remake of A Christmas Carol. Managed by the National Trust, this elegant Georgian house is open to the public and hosts various exhibitions and workshops. For something closer to LSE, Last Christmas was partly filmed in Covent Garden. Though Kate’s shop was a set inside the Market Building, the festive atmosphere remains, with plenty of stalls and decorations.
Along with the festive spirit comes a newfound confidence to attempt ice-skating. Whether you’re dragged into it by your course mates for your department’s annual skate or practising for fun, London boasts a selection of beautiful spots to take to the rink. Perfect for an evening skate after campus, Somerset House is only around the corner from LSE, and offers the ultimate, picture-perfect rink in its courtyard. Or, if you’re trying to practice your skating whilst admiring your future workplace (which may be the perfect view for some of us), Canary Wharf offers slightly more affordable off-peak tickets, to enjoy whilst plotting your moves into the corporate world.
For a slightly less crowded market experience, head over to Battersea Power Station. Around the back, you’ll find giant baubles and Christmas trees perfect for a photo, along with a funfair and ice rink overlooking the Thames. If you’re after something a bit calmer, take a seat in the glass house (or a private igloo if you’re after a pricier outing) and enjoy some refreshments, or try out the homemade sweets from the nearby stands. If you’re looking for more traditional homemade goods, the station’s interior will be packed with stalls on the 13th and 14th of December. On the other days, it is beautifully lit and makes the perfect spot for a bit of Christmas shopping.
