Experience London's Christmas magic: 6 fun things to do in the capital this festive season
There’s no two ways about it, London is awesome but at Christmas, it’s NEXT LEVEL.
From magical lights and markets to epic hot chocolates and viral street food, it’s equal to (if not better than) Lapland in our opinion.
So naturally, people will be flocking to the capital from all across the country to get a glimpse of the Big Smoke in all its festive glory.
If you live in Liverpool, it’s never been easier to head to London, thanks to Avanti’s new quick rail service. It now takes just over two hours to get from Liverpool Lime Street to London Euston.
Santa-loving Scousers can enjoy a whole host of magical things to do in the capital (and the best part is they can all be done in one day!)
Here are some of our top picks of things to do in London in the lead-up to Crimbo and some useful tips for saving some cash on your journey. Book your tickets here.
1. Visit Winter Wonderland
Let’s be real, if you’re visiting London at Christmas time, you’re heading straight for Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.
The magical Christmas market, turned fairground extravaganza attracts visitors from across the country each festive season.
Want to know more about what not to miss while you’re there? Check out our guide by clicking here.
2. See the Christmas Lights
London has recently been named the most Instagrammable city in the world (for a second year running, we’ll have you know).
But the city gets even more beautiful at Christmas. Iconic streets like Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Regent Street will be sparkling with lights and decorations.
If shiny things are your bag, you’ll also love Christmas at Kew, a magical light trail that winds through the beautiful grounds of Kew Gardens.
Find out more about where to find the best festive lights in London by clicking here.
3. Shopping in London
London is an excellent place to shop until you drop! Head to Oxford Street for major stores like John Lewis, Disney and Selfridges.
Or pay a trip to Harrods and Hamleys for a Christmas shopping experience unlike any other.
And don’t forget to check out all the magical window displays while you’re shopping too - they are truly a sight to behold!
Battersea Power Station is another great place for a spot of shopping, housing many designer and luxury brands.
4. Go ice skating in London
Get your skates on, it’s nearly Christmas! In the winter, London is home to some awesome ice skating rinks.
From Hyde Park to Somerset House and Battersea Power Station, a trip to one of London’s pop-up ice rinks is as magical as a trip to Disneyland.
Check out our guide to London’s ice skating rinks here.
5. Watch a panto!
Christmas isn’t complete without a trip to the panto (oh no it isn’t!)
And naturally, London is a hub for famous faces to make their pantomime appearances.
This year Julian Clarey and Jane McDonald will star in Robin Hood at the London Palladium.
Dr Ranj and Gareth Gates will perform in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley.
6. Eat, drink and be merry!
I’m a firm believer that Christmas calories don’t count, so take this opportunity to sample all the epic food London has to offer.
I’d highly suggest getting yourself down to one of London’s food markets and getting your mouth around one of the capital’s many viral treats.
I can’t stop thinking about the sticky chocolate doughnut pudding at Seven Dials market in Covent Garden - whereas you might prefer an epic burger or some fried cheese.
Tips for saving some dough on your trip
1. Book early: The earlier you book your tickets, the more you can save on train fare prices. Book 8 weeks in advance you could save 42% of the ticket price, and you could even save up to 70% when you book 12 weeks in advance.
2. Join Club Avanti: Get 10% off your next journey when you join Club Avanti. You’ll also get rewards like free train tickets, 10% off food and beverages and a free hot drink.
3. Get Ticket Alerts: Be the first to know when the tickets you want go on sale. Tickets are usually available up to 12 weeks ahead of time.
4. Use a Railcard: Save up to 1/3 on rail travel. Save on regular journeys. Popular Railcards include the 16-17 Saver, 16-25 Railcard, 26-30 Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard, Network Railcard, Senior Railcard, and Two Together Railcard.
5. Travel Off-Peak: Travel outside of rush hour to save on full ticket prices. As long as you’re happy to travel at Off-Peak times, these tickets allow you to keep your plans flexible.
6. Book with Avanti: Book using the Avanti website or Avanti App to get cheap train tickets with no booking fee.
7. Buy a Season Ticket: If you make the same journey three or more times a week, you may be able to save with a Season Ticket. You can choose between a 7-day, Monthly, Annual or Custom Season Ticket.
8. Save with family train tickets or group train tickets: If you’re travelling with family or friends, cut travel costs with family or group fares. Plus, children under five can travel for free.
9. Use Journey Planner: With the Journey Planner, you can find the best fares for the train tickets available for your journey. With the Journey Planner, you can find the best fares for the train tickets available for your journey.