London is the place to be at
Christmas, as the city transforms into a festive wonderland. With twinkling lights and buzzing
Christmas markets, there are plenty of family-friendly festive activities to keep everyone entertained,
whether you’re a Londoner or visiting for the first time.
Staying at an
Imperial London Hotel means you are based in central London with iconic festive lights, Christmas markets and much more just as short walk or tube journey away. Choose from family rooms, Quad rooms and interconnecting rooms to your holiday relaxed with more space for you and the kids. Our welcome will melt away winter chill, and after a comfy night's sleep, you'll be ready for another day of adventure.
A vintage carousel at night, glowing with lights & ornate details, perfect for family fun in London.
LONDON’S MUST-SEE CHRISTMAS ATTRACTIONS FOR FAMILIES
1. Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
Christmas comes alive at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. The family fun is never-ending, there’s a Santa’s Grotto, traditional fairground rides and plenty of food stalls to keep the little ones' bellies merry (for a couple of hours). The Santa Parade is an unmissable chance to catch a glimpse of Mr & Mrs Claus as they head back to check on the elves. The little ones, and the not-so-little ones, can wave and give them lots of festive cheer.
Pro tips: Entry for Santa’s Grotto is free but may close early on days with a parade.
A person captures a dazzling Christmas tree lit with golden lights on their phone, surrounded by a canopy of glowing decorations.
2. Christmas at Kew
With over a million twinkling lights and a view of these botanical gardens, Christmas at Kew Gardens is an excellent choice. Try out delicious Christmas treats, walk around giant plants from around the world and let the children be mesmerised by the Grotto of Light.
After immersing yourself in the festive lights and botanical wonders of Kew Gardens, extend your green-themed Christmas experience by staying in a
garden view room at the
Bedford Hotel. Overlooking a serene private garden, these rooms offer a relaxed stay in the heart of the city.
Pro tip: Buy tickets as early as possible, it’s a popular choice in high demand (which must mean it’s good).
A whimsical figurine of a clown in red pants and a top hat sits on a swing, suspended in a softly blurred vintage interior setting.
3. Victoria & Albert Museum of Childhood
Feeling Nostalgic?
Take a trip down memory lane with toys and games, at the Young V&A. A great hidden gem where adults can reminisce about toys from their past and children can see the evolution of some of the toys they play with today.
After your visit, unwind at the
Royal National Hotel, conveniently located nearby, offering comfortable accommodations to complement your day of exploration. Stays here start from £150 for most dates in December.
Pro tip: If the little ones still have plenty of energy, Victoria Park is a short walk with a café and picturesque water fountain or you can book a session at Beth Wall Climbing Centre which is just around the corner - both options we love.
The grand facade of a neoclassical building featuring tall columns and intricate sculptures, set against a clear blue sky.
4. The British Museum
The
British Museum is a great way to include a little education over the Christmas holidays, with many trails catered towards children of all ages. When you arrive head over to the Families Desk to find out about the Museum Explorer Trail or pick up an activity pack for the little ones. Under 5s and their carers can join the Museum's Little feet programme too - there really is something for all ages.
Just a short walk from the Museum, the President Hotel is a convenient stay option for
families wanting to explore London’s culture and history. After a day of discovery, in the same area you can stop by
Blooms Coffee & Pizza at the Royal National Hotel. It’s a cosy, family-friendly café serving delicious pizzas and drinks, ideal for sharing and unwinding together.
A festive display of colourful nutcracker figures of varying sizes, surrounded by holiday decorations, set against a red backdrop.
A vibrant scene on London's Regent Street at night, with glowing angel light displays overhead and a red double-decker bus below.
5. Hamleys & Christmas Lights Trail (Regent St, Oxford St, Trafalgar Sq)
Christmas in London isn’t complete without a trip to Hamleys, the world’s oldest and most famous toy shop. Spread across seven magical floors, it’s packed with toy demonstrations, festive activities, and interactive displays guaranteed to keep children and the grown-ups who are kids at heart entertained. You can even stop by Build-A-Bear Workshop to create a personalised teddy that makes a perfect Christmas keepsake.
Once you’ve soaked up the festive feels of Hamleys, continue the adventure with a sparkling Christmas Lights Trail. See the glittering angels along Regent Street, the twinkling stars above
Oxford Street, and finish with the iconic Norwegian Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. For the best view, grab a top-deck seat on the 139 bus towards Waterloo or the 94 to Piccadilly Circus, then walk the final stretch to the tree, it’s a festive journey in itself.
Plan it
Time: 60–90 minutes with photo stops
From Bloomsbury: You can hop on the tube to Piccadilly Circus, then walk for 7 mins or take a long 25 min walk to Hamely’s Regent Street watching the festive lights.
Close-up of brown leather ice skates gliding on a smooth, reflective ice rink, capturing a winter activity in motion.
7. Glide at Battersea Power Station
For an ice-skating experience, head over to
Glide at Battersea Power Station. This outdoor rink sits between the iconic Battersea Power Station and the River Thames, with a 30ft Christmas tree twinkling in the centre.
The penguin skate aids are great for families with tiny skaters or beginners especially when the pros are out showing off their moves.
Planning tips:
- Prebook your tickets – it gets busy around Christmas.
- Arrive early for penguin skate aids – grab one before the rush.
Stay central in Bloomsbury and enjoy an easy Tube ride straight to Battersea.
8. Meet Father Christmas in London
London really knows how to make the festive season magical with so many chances to see Santa’s Grotto with the little ones. Here’ s list of a few places:
Hamleys, Regent Street: Magical North Pole grotto with elves, Santa, and a gift.
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park: Santaland with rides, parade, and Santa’s Grotto.
London Zoo, Regent’s Park: Christmas crafts and cozy grotto visit with Santa.
Chelsea Christmas Grotto, Sloane Square: 25-minute winter wonderland session with Santa.
Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath: Storytime with Santa plus a wrapped present.
Chelsea Christmas Grotto, Sloane Square: 25-minute winter wonderland session with Santa.
Planning tips:
Book in advance – Santa’s slots fill up fast.
Arrive early – Beat the crowds and enjoy the full experience without the chaos
Check family rooms in Bloomsbury – Stay central and make the most of London’s festive magic.
CHRISTMAS THEATRE SHOWS FOR FAMILIES
A mystical setup featuring a lit incense stick emitting smoke, a glowing red lantern, and a decorative leather-bound box.
1. Warner Bros. Studio - Hogwarts in the Snow
Potter heads shouldn’t miss Christmas at the
Warner Bros Studio The whole studio transforms into a magical winter wonderland with the Great Hall decked with glistening Christmas trees and decorations - it’s a real feast for the eye. A must see is the model of the Hogwarts Castle with beautiful details, dusted in snow to bring the Christmas feel to Hogwarts.
If you’re coming back late, stay at City Sleeper at the Royal National Hotel, which offers interconnecting rooms ideal for families. It’s within walking distance of Euston Station and well connected to the rest of central London.
How to get there: The studios are a short train ride from London Euston, with shuttle transfers available on arrival.
2. Matilda The Musical
Experience the West End’s award winning, Matilda The Musical this Christmas. This family-friendly, world renowned, show is a wonderful way to end a day out in London with catchy songs, uplifting storylines and an extremely talented young cast. It is the perfect way to enjoy the musical magic of London’s West End at Christmas with the family.
After the show, walk back to Tavistock hotel in minutes. Book a family room and make the most of your evening in the theatre district. This art deco hotel offers comfortable accommodations, ensuring a restful night for you and the family after your festive theatre experience.
A cheerful snowman with a black hat, red scarf, and twig arms, smiling brightly in a snowy winter setting.
3. The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre
The Snowman is a magical and nostalgic show straight out of the widely loved children’s book. This show comes to life every Christmas in London theatres and never disappoints.
After enjoying The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre, dive into another storybook setting by staying at the
Morton Hotel. Situated in Bloomsbury, renowned for its rich literary heritage and as the home of the influential Bloomsbury Group, Morton Hotel offers a unique experience for book lovers and is also best suited to older kids/teens and culture lovers.
For families with younger children, The Royal National or The President make excellent, family-friendly bases close by.
LOOKING FOR FUN RESTAURANTS IN LONDON FOR FAMILIES? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS
1. Inamo Covent Garden
Inamo near
Covent Garden is a cool spot, especially for kids with its famous interactive tables where you can order your food, play games, and even spy on the kitchen with a live feed—it’s a whole experience, not just a meal.
Their menu is a mix of Asian-inspired dishes—think sushi, dim sum, and some Thai and Korean flavours thrown in.
A cosy tea setup featuring glass cups of red tea, muffins on plates, a clear teapot, and sugar cubes on a wooden tray.
2. Bakery Bus Afternoon Tea
A visit to London is incomplete without a classic
afternoon tea. To make it a more unique experience, why not hop on the London Bakery Bus? You’ll pass some of London’s most iconic landmarks while you enjoy a tasty cake and warming brew. They’ve got you covered with vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options too, so it’s perfect if your family has different dietary needs.
A vibrant Indian street food dish with sev, herbs, and pomegranate, served with pani puri and crispy snacks on a rustic plate.
3. Poppadom at the Tavistock Hotel
For a festive family meal with a slight twist,
Poppadom Indian Kitchen at the
Tavistock Hotel is the perfect spot this Christmas. Serving hearty and authentic Indian flavours, it's perfect for sharing and celebrating together! From the sizzling tandoori plates to the delicious traditional desserts, each dish is packed with warmth and feels like a treat – perfect for this chilly time of year! With its relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu, it’s the perfect spot to bring the family and make the festive season that much more special.
Wrap Up Your Family Fun with A Stay at Imperial London Hotels
Let us welcome you and your family this festive season. Feel at home and stay closer to the best shopping spots, festive events and entertainment, making your Christmas unforgettable with a
family-friendly stay.
Imperial London Hotels has six properties with a great central location, roomy options, and easy tube links to shopping, theatres and Christmas lights.
Royal National Hotel
President Hotel
Comfortable, dependable rooms and a short walk to Covent Garden and the West End makes President hotel a fuss-free family choice for Christmas theatre and seasonal shopping. Ideal when you want central convenience without the premium price tag.
City Sleeper Hotel
An upgraded option from Royal National Hotel. The City Sleeper Hotel is ideal for
couples, small families and families who need extra space (interconnecting rooms). It's sleek, modern and designed for comfort. A solid pick for show-going families who value calm and smart amenities.