If visiting over Christmas, then be aware that there’s no public transport at all on Christmas Day. Also, all shops, and most restaurants are closed. It is however a magical time to visit the city as you can wander the almost deserted streets and see London in a way you will likely never see again.
Is everything in London closed on Christmas Day?
Most London attractions are closed on Christmas Day, but some continue to open their doors at this special time of year: JW3 ice rink in north London is one of the city’s only ice-skating rinks open on Christmas Day. If you fancy a family walk, London’s Royal Parks remain open during the festive period.
Are shops closed in London during Christmas?
Christmas holidays and closures
Public transport does not operate on Christmas Day and has a reduced service on Boxing Day and the Christmas bank holidays. Most London attractions and shops, as well as many restaurants, are closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Is London open over Christmas?
Most businesses and attractions close on Christmas Day in London, and many close from 24 to 26 December, as well as on 1 January. Always check before travelling.
Is everything closed on Christmas Day UK?
The Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004 prohibits large shops in England and Wales from opening on Christmas Day to serve retail customers, whatever day of the week it falls.
Is London worth visiting during Christmas?
Christmas Day in London
Christmas Day is the quietest day of the year in London, take the opportunity to walk in the parks and see the Christmas windows and lights. There’s something special about being in London at Christmas time but Christmas day itself in the city is a unique experience.
Is Christmas a good time to visit London?
Christmas is a magical time of year to be visiting London. There are spectacular decorations everywhere, and people are generally in a festive mood. Here are some of our favourite seasonal experiences, which are all great reasons to visit London during the Christmas holidays.
What is open in London during Christmas?
Restaurants open for lunch in London on Christmas Day 2022
- Claridge’s.
- Dinner by Heston Blumenthal.
- The Connaught.
- The Colony Grill.
- Kerridge’s Bar and Grill.
- Holborn Dining Room.
- German Gymnasium.
- Duck & Waffle.
How can I spend Christmas Day in London?
Christmas Day in London ideas and events
- See London’s streets sparkle.
- Go for a dip in Hampton Pool.
- Head to Chinatown.
- Cycle around the city.
- Walk off all that turkey (or vegetarian alternative)
- The Peter Pan Cup.
- Go to a London park.
- Volunteer your time to help other Londoners.
Are shops allowed to open on Christmas Day UK?
Rules for large shops in England and Wales
Shops over 280 square metres: can open on Sundays but only for 6 consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm. must close on Easter Sunday. must close on Christmas Day.
Do pubs open on Christmas Day UK?
Hospitality venues can only serve alcohol with substantial meals. This means unless a pub is serving food on Christmas Day, it will not be permitted to open for customers. Last orders will be at 10pm with a closing time of 11pm for all venues.
Is it a good idea to visit UK during Christmas?
While the United Kingdom tends to be cold, damp, and dark in December, it also comes alive with Christmas lights and festivities. It’s a good time to visit if you enjoy indoor cultural attractions and want to get into the festive spirit. Find out more about traveling to the UK in December.
Are museums in London open on Christmas?
Note – this is the 2017 article, for Museums open over Christmas in 2021, click here. With many people taking an extended break over Christmas, it helps to know which museums are going to be open so that you can have some ideas of where to visit.
London Museums open over Christmas.
| Bethlem Museum of the Mind | |
| Sun 24th | ❌ |
| Xmas Day | ❌ |
| Boxing Day | ❌ |
| Wed 27th | ❌ |
Is everything closed on Boxing Day in London?
5. Re: Christmas in London, everything closed? Times have changed, around Xmas most things are open, except on the 25th, but even then *some* smaller shops, etc are open, if you’re in London. Boxing day is a shopping day, so you’d best get up early to enjoy it!
Are shops open in London on Boxing Day?
With more stores closing their doors for longer during the festive season, shoppers will have to carefully plan their shopping trips. Almost all major stores in the UK are closed on Christmas Day, but a few retailers won’t be operating on Boxing Day either.
Are shops allowed to be open on Christmas Day?
It is against the Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004 for shops over 280 square metres to open in Christmas Day in England and Wales.
Where can I eat on Christmas Day in London?
The best Christmas dinner at hotels in London
- Dinner by Heston, Knightsbridge.
- Whitcomb’s at The Londoner, Leicester Square.
- Sea Containers, South Bank.
- Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, Mayfair.
- The Northall at Corinthia Hotel London, Whitehall.
- Angler, Moorgate.
- The Broadcaster, White City.
- Galvin at Windows, Mayfair.
Is London cold during Christmas?
AVERAGE DECEMBER TEMPERATURES
As we near Christmas, daytime highs tend to be mostly 6-7 C (mid-40’s F) and early morning lows around 3-4 C (upper 30’s F). A few mornings will see temperatures dipping down to around -1 to -2 C (30 F). The coldest temperature recorded in London in December was -12 C (10 F).
How cold is London at Christmas?
Winter (December – February)
Winters in London are characterised by cold and often rainy weather. The average high between December and February is 48°F (9°C) and the average low is 41°F (5°C). However, freezing temperatures are not uncommon and snow is not unheard of.
Does public transport run in London on Christmas Day?
Christmas Day (Sunday 25th): No public transport. Between Christmas and New Year: Tubes, trains and buses run weekend or altered services. Check ahead before travel. New Year’s Eve (Saturday 31st): Free travel on the TfL network between 23:45 and 04:30.
How do people dress in London in December?
Winter is cold. The key is to wear lots of layers (especially if you don’t fancy bringing along a heavy winter coat), drink plenty of tea, and be prepared for the possibility of snow. When planning what to pack for London, choose tights, leggings, knee-high socks, and thermals like these for extra warmth.