Things To Do In London On Christmas Day

Alright, picture this: You're in London on Christmas Day. The streets are quiet, the shops are shut, and you're thinking, "What on Earth am I going to do with myself?" Well, mate, you've come to the right place. I've got a list of activities that'll make your Christmas Day in London as jolly as Santa's belly.

First things first: The Christmas Markets

You can't visit London at Christmas and not pop by the markets. They're like the city's version of a North Pole outpost. Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is a must. It's open on Christmas Day, and it's like stepping into a real-life snow globe. There are ice rinks, roller coasters, and enough fairground food to make you feel like you've been on a week-long bender at the office Christmas party.

But here's a pro tip: Don't go hungry. The queues for food are longer than the line for the North Pole's post box. Grab a bite before you go, or you'll be huffing and puffing like the big bad wolf.

Carols by Candlelight at St. Martin-in-the-Fields

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Church on Christmas Day? Isn't that a bit... religious?" Well, hear me out. This isn't your average church service. St. Martin-in-the-Fields puts on a Carols by Candlelight service that's more about the community than the communion.

It's a beautiful, atmospheric event, and it's free. Plus, it's a great way to warm up if the winter chill has got you shivering like a bowl full of jelly.

Christmas Lunch at a Pub

You can't visit London without trying a proper British pub. And on Christmas Day, they're serving up traditional roast dinners that'll make you feel like you've died and gone to turkey heaven.

The Wetherspoon chain is always a safe bet. They're open, they're cheap, and they're serving up Christmas lunch until 2pm. Just don't expect any fancy trimmings. It's a no-nonsense, hearty meal that'll fill you up quicker than a kid on Quality Street.

Ice Skating at Somerset House

Fancy a spot of ice skating? Somerset House has one of the most beautiful rinks in London. It's open on Christmas Day, and it's like skating on a giant, frozen mirror. Just watch out for the kids. They're faster than they look, and they've got a habit of mowing down anyone in their path.

And if you fall? Don't worry, it's not just you. The ice is as slippery as a politician's promise. You'll be in good company.

Christmas Pudding at Fortnum & Mason

Now, I know what you're thinking, "I can't possibly eat another thing." But hear me out. Fortnum & Mason's Christmas pudding is no ordinary pudding. It's a work of art. It's a symphony of sweet, boozy goodness that'll make your taste buds dance like a sugar-plum fairy.

And the best part? You can buy one to take home. It's like a little piece of Christmas magic that'll keep on giving, long after the tinsel's been packed away.

Boxing Day Sales

Alright, so this one's not exactly a Christmas Day activity, but it's worth mentioning. The Boxing Day sales in London are legendary. Shops slash their prices by up to 50%, and it's like Black Friday, but with less pushing and shoving.

Just don't expect to find any bargains in the West End. The shops there are as expensive as they are glamorous. Head to the markets or the high street stores for the best deals.

And there you have it, folks. Your guide to surviving Christmas Day in London. It might not be the North Pole, but it's a pretty darn good alternative. So, grab your scarf, your sense of adventure, and get out there. London's waiting.