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Commemorating the birth of Jesus, Christmas Day is a joyous and religious day celebrated by millions of people across the world. On this day in London, the city can seem eerily quiet as many businesses, restaurants and transport cease operations. Because so many things are closed, planning is key! Read our quick guide to everything that is open on the 25th December.
Things to do on Christmas Day in London
Cheer on the swimmers
One of London’s oldest and quirkiest Christmas traditions, the Peter Pan Cup has been taking place every Christmas morning since 1864. Come along to watch brave swimmers from the Serpentine Swimming Club race across Hyde Park’s lido at 9am.
See the Christmas lights
Experience the magical Christmas Lights Tour in London. See the city’s famous landmarks and streets lit up for the festive season. From sustainable stars in Oxford Street to the iconic angels in Regent Street, you’ll be mesmerized by the dazzling lights and how magical London looks in the evening.
Embark on a sightseeing adventure
Enjoy the sights of London at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off open top bus tour. See the city from a very different perspective on this special day and opt to tuck into a delicious 3-course Christmas lunch at Browns Victoria. This is a fantastic way to sightsee around the city, especially since there won’t be any public transport!
Or why not, cruise down the River Thames while enjoying a festive lunch or dinner. You’ll see the same spectacular sights, just from the river.
Alternatively, escape London for the day with a coach trip to Windsor, Stonehenge, Oxford, Canterbury Cathedral, Salisbury Cathedral and more with a three course traditional Christmas lunch.
Go for a walk
There’s no better way to walk off those pigs-in-blankets (or work up an appetite for some) than by taking a leisurely stroll. Explore the city or one of its Royal Parks and soak up the festive atmosphere as well as the natural beauty of London on this special day.
Attend a church service
Come together for a special service at one of the many churches open on Christmas Day in London. Some of London’s most spectacular churches offer free attendance to visitors on December 25th.
- St Paul’s Cathedral: Choral Eucharist (11am), Festal Evensong (3pm)
- Westminster Abbey: Holy Communion (8am), Sung Eucharist (10.30am), Evensong (3pm)
- St Martin’s-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square: Eucharist Service (10.30am)
Grab a bite to eat
If you are looking for somewhere to eat or drink on Christmas Day, there’s a variety of restaurants and pubs open in London to help you stock up on those festive calories. Why not check out the vibrant Chinatown for a non-traditional Christmas lunch? Hotel bars are your best bet for a drink. Whatever you end up choosing, just make sure to check the opening hours and book well in advance.
Getting around
London’s public transport shuts down on December 25th, so the only way to travel through the city is by taxi, car, cycle hire, your own two feet or Golden Tours’ bus tour. Even though much of London takes a well-deserved break, there are still many options for those wanting to get out and about.
The important thing is to relax, eat, drink and be merry!
What are your plans for Christmas Day?
Share your magical photos with us @goldentoursuk!
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