London is a hotspot for tourists and visitors in the lead-up to the festive season, which means things book up in an instant. To avoid disappointing your little ones by missing out on a trip to Santa’s Grotto or a magical light show, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to keeping the kids entertained over Christmas.

From gingerbread workshops to Harry Potter escapades, here’s where to take the kids this Christmas.

Fulham Pier

Nestled along the River Thames, Fulham Pier is all set to transform into a magical cabin in the woods this winter, with giant pine trees, twinkling riverwalk paths and interactive digital art, so you’ll find yourself walking through snowy forests and alpine villages. Look forward to story time sessions with Santa, beanie-making workshops, festive roller discos, wreath-making workshops and a big family-friendly party hosted by Big Fish Little Fish.

where: Fulham Pier, London SW6 6HH
website: www.fulhampier.com

Westfield London’s Wicked-themed experience

Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory journey into the world of Wicked: For Good exclusively at Westfield London until 4th January 2026. The experience has spectacular sets, behind-the-scenes photography, iconic props, smells and sounds that bring the magic of the movie to life; plus, lots of photo opportunities and shareable moments. 

This highly anticipated experience is likely to book out, so register your free ticket today to avoid disappointment.

where: Ariel Way, W12 7SL Shepherd’s Bush LONDON
website: www.westfield.com

Christmas at Kew

Skip the “Kew” and grab your tickets now for the most enchanting light installation at Kew Gardens. Christmas at Kew is littered with glittery spiral trees, wow-worthy laser projections and endless tunnels of fun. The kiddies can dive into buckets of churros and hot chocolates while the parents enjoy a glass of mulled wine or two.

When: Selected dates, 14.11.2025 – 04.01.2026
Where: Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE
Website: www.kew.org

Battersea Power Station

Get ready to put your ice skating prowess to the test as you glide around Battersea Power Station’s ice rink. It’s the perfect place to get your icy kicks and entertain the kids as you whizz or gracefully fall flat on your face around the rink. There are also plenty of foodie pop-ups and holiday workshops, like snowman-building and gingerbread house-making. where you can keep the kids entertained — you’ll really be spoiled for choice here.

WHERE: Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD
website: www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk

Hogwarts in the Snow

The iconic Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio tour is transformed into “Hogwarts in the Snow” each holiday season, and this year is no exception. Whizz over on your Nimbus 2000 and fall in love with the epic Hogwarts castle model that’s been covered in a dusting of snow, before making your way through the Gryffindor common room and Boys’ dormitory. It’ll be as if Harry and his friends are still living in the space, with original props, including handmade Christmas cards on display.  The Yule Ball returns, offering you a chance to step in the footsteps of your favourite character moments. Prepare to be dazzled as you’re greeted with silver decorations, dripping icicles and sparkling snow.  Expect fan-favourite sets to be transformed with red and gold ornaments, as well as snow falling across the Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley.

When: 15.11.2025 – 18.01.2026
Where: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR
Website: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

Skate at Somerset House

Grab your skates and whizz on over to Somerset House to experience the capital’s most magical Christmas experience. 

Perfect for budding ice skaters or just making a fool out of yourself, the ice rink is arguably the best in London, complete with a 40-foot Christmas tree. You’ll find food and drink offerings waiting for you at the finish line, too, from the king of pop-ups, Jimmy Garcia, helping to warm you up with comforting favourites like fondue and sticky toffee pudding.

When: 12.11.2025 – 11.01.2026
Where: Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA
Website: www.somersethouse.org.uk

Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Let your little kid’s dreams come true at Brigit’s Bakery, the popular bakery-by-bus just launched its latest tour, and it’s centred around everyone’s favourite bear: Paddington.

Their chefs have created a Paddington-inspired afternoon tea, featuring the best marmalade sandwich in London. Hop on the bus and you’ll be taken around all of the bear’s favourite London spots, from Big Ben to Downing Street. It’s the perfect way to see London’s Christmas lights while staying warm and tucking into a child-friendly afternoon tea.

WHEN: Daily Tours
Departing from: Trafalgar Square
Website: www.b-bakery.com

Harrods’ Christmas Shop

Is there anywhere more Christmassy in London than Harrods? Bring your kids in tow this festive season and soak up the magic by spotting the legendary Harrods Christmas bear and finding the perfect decorations to line your trees and stockings. Take in the space’s magical essence. 

When: Across the festive season 
Where: Knightsbridge, SW1X
Website: www.harrods.com

The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker at the Royal Albert Hall is a magical and festive ballet experience that has become a beloved Christmas tradition in London. Performed by the world‑class dancers of the Birmingham Royal Ballet and accompanied by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia playing Tchaikovsky’s glorious score live, this enchanting production brings to life Clara’s journey from a Christmas Eve party into a glittering winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes, battling soldiers, and the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Created especially for the grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall, the staging features spectacular period costumes, dazzling projections, and immersive production design that transform the iconic circular venue into a breathtaking setting for this timeless holiday classic.

WHEN: 29.12.2025 – 31.12.2026
WHERE: The Royal aLBERT Hall
WEBSITE:https://www.royalalberthall.com/

The Snowman

Who doesn’t love the heart-warming story of the boy who becomes friends with his snowman? This Christmas, Raymond Briggs’ winter picture book comes to life on the big stage for its 28th year running. Fall back in love with the festive classic thanks to Bill Alexander’s directorial magic, music and lyrics from Howard Blake, including everyone’s favourite ‘Walking in the Air’, and choreography by Robert North. 

Watch the magic unfold through beautiful storytelling, dance and live music. Perfect for children, adults and everyone in between, this is one magical snowy production you won’t want to miss.

WHEN: 22.11.2025 – 4.01.2026
WHERE: PEACOCK THEATRE, PORTUGAL STREET, WC2A 2HT
WEBSITE: WWW.THEATRETICKETSDIRECT.CO.UK

Gingerbread City

Need some inspiration for your festive gingerbread creation this Christmas? Look to the Gingerbread City, the annual exhibition that sees architects, designers, and engineers build a city out of gingerbread. 

Running from 29th November to 4th January, head down to get inspired by the creations, from moving trains to twirling parts.

WHEN: 29.11.2025 – 4.01.2026
WHERE: Unit 5, Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DQ
WEBSITE: ​​WWW.THEGINGERBREADCITY.COM

Biscuiteers

Biscuiteers will be hosting special kid-friendly classes in the run-up to Christmas. The class will begin with a quick five-minute tutorial, and it’s up to you how you want to design your Christmas biscuit creations. Decorate them in-store and enjoy them over the festive period, or gift your creations to a loved one. 

Where: belgravia, and notting hill
Website: www.biscuiteers.com

The Polar Express Train Ride

Go for a journey on the Polar Express this Christmas, where beloved The Polar Express movie characters, the conductor and cabin chefs, sing and dance. Enjoy the hot chocolate that looked so delicious in the film while enjoying familiar songs.

The train departs from Euston Station, and the show begins as you find your seats.

WHEN: 21.11.2025 – 4.01.2026
Where: Euston Road, London, NW1 2RT
Website: londonthepolarexpressride.com

Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland returns this Christmas for another round of non-stop entertainment, spectacular shows, food and drink and Santa antics. London’s biggest central park will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland as per usual. Expect ice skating rinks, giant wheels, ice kingdoms, ice sculpting workshops, cirque berserk, fairground rides and more.

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland returns this Christmas for another round of non-stop entertainment.

When: 13.11.2025 – 01.01.2026
Where: Hyde Park
Website: www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Neverland At Kentwood

Brighten your Christmas season by visiting Never Neverland. The outdoor trail leads through the lights, which tell J.M. Barrie’s The Lost Boys’ tale. Characters Tinker Bell and Wendy Darling ring in the festivity.

WHEN: 21.11.2025 – 3.01.2026
Where: London, NW3 7JR
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk

Christmas, Culture, Pop Ups, Weekend Guide

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