The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Every Christmas, London transforms into a magical wonderland brimming with festive charm and excitement, making it the perfect destination for families with kids and teens. From dazzling Christmas lights that illuminate iconic streets like Oxford Street to enchanting ice skating rinks at Somerset House and Winter Wonderland, there’s no shortage of festive fun to explore. Whether your family loves Christmas shopping, singing carols, watching captivating pantomimes, or experiencing the thrill of holiday markets and grottoes, London offers something to delight every age.
So get ready to create unforgettable memories with Christmas shows, movie screenings, and immersive exhibitions that are sure to have kids of all ages rocking around the Christmas tree!
Horrible Histories Live on Stage is back, spreading holiday cheer with a delightfully twisted take on their fan-favourite, Horrible Christmas!
Starting December 12th and running until January 4th, this extended version of the hit show lights up the stunningly restored Victorian treasure, Alexandra Palace Theatre in London N22. Book here for a KidRated special offer….
Experience the ultimate Christmas fairground at Winter Wonderland with thrilling rides, charming markets, ice skating, and festive shows that will delight visitors of all ages.
For the best experience, here are some handy tips. To save both money and time, book your ride tickets online when buying your entry tickets. Opt for off-peak times to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and head to your favourite rides first to avoid long queues.
Layer up warmly and if you’re planning to sit inside Bar Ice or The Magical Ice Kingdom, stay extra cosy by wearing a heating pad inside your jacket.
If arriving by tube, Hyde Park Corner is the closest. For a more relaxed experience, visit Winter Wonderland on weekdays or Saturday and Sunday afternoons to avoid the bigger crowds.
Take the kids to meet Santa at everyone’s choice of Christmas toy shop – Hamleys, where holiday dreams come true!
Enjoy seasonal treats, mulled wine, and artisan crafts along the Thames while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Explore a breathtaking light trail through Kew Gardens, perfect for families looking for a magical evening out.
Step into a magical, snowy Hogwarts and experience the enchanting Christmas magic from the Harry Potter series.
Visit Covent Garden and marvel at the giant Christmas tree, stunning lights, and festive displays that create a winter wonderland atmosphere.
Snow fall at London’s Covent Garden
Admire London’s iconic tree in Trafalgar Square, a gift from Norway, and enjoy carol singing and a few wooden Christmas market stalls in this historic location.
Indulge in a luxurious festive afternoon tea at The Ritz that’s perfect for celebrating the season in style.
Attend festive concerts and shows at the beautiful Royal Albert Hall, including performances of The Nutcracker ballet that will enchant audiences young and old. Get into the family festive spirit with Home Alone in Concert with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra on 7th December.
Enjoy the classic Nutcracker Christmas ballet performance at the London Coliseum which brings this beloved story to life on stage.
From 12 December – 12 January.
Shop for gifts while sipping mulled wine with stunning views of Tower Bridge as your backdrop.
Step back in time to enjoy festive Victorian traditions that will transport you to another era at the Charles Dickens Museum in WC1.
London is definitely one of the best places to enjoy beautiful Christmas lights, with everything ranging from classic displays to themed and more quirky ones. In and around London’s West End such as Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square, is where you can see London at its sparkly best.
Drop by to gaze, or check for details on when the lights will be switched on, signalling the start of the Christmas period.
Or why not treat the kids to a tour of the lights by bus? Christmas Lights London by Night Tour comes with a live guide and provides a 90-minute tour of the spectacular Christmas lights. The Hop on Hop Off open top bus is another option which gives you that added flexibility.
This year, Carnaby Streets ‘Into The Light’ Christmas light display is now illuminated and shining down over the area. Head on down to ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at the glorious sight.. King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard will be packed with cool installations, and The Shard will have its annual Christmas lights show, Shard Lights.
Like the idea of a Christmas Light Trail? Be transported to a world of light, colour and sound at Christmas at Eltham Palace, or check out the instagrammable light installations at Kenwood House.
Sparkle in the Park in Greenwich lays on a light trail with twinkling trees, art installations and interactive elements, plus live music, street food and drinks.
Christmas at Kew is the ultimate light trail experience and a must for any family’s festive calendar. The 300-acre botanic garden transforms into a mesmerising spectacle with glistening lights and illuminations. Follow this year’s route past glass houses decorated with kaleidoscopic projections, explore shimmering tunnels of light, and wander through trees glowing in the brightest colours.
The paid light trail is popular, but the gardens are free to visit during the day with beautiful winter foliage.
With over 500 Nordmann fir Christmas trees sparkling with twinkly lights, covering almost 500 square metres of the Pleasure gardens, work your way through this urban magical Christmas tree maze and take your picture in their photo wall at the heart of the maze!
Wander through beautifully decorated halls and shop for luxury gifts in one of London’s most famous department stores.
Experience a unique Santa visit combined with historical storytelling that’s both fun and educational.
Walk through stunning light displays set against the backdrop of this historic estate.
Meet Santa at the Museum
Hop aboard for festive cheer! From 23 November to 23 December, Santa will be making special stops at the Museum to meet families. Step into a winter wonderland at the Transportorium Garden, where little ones can climb onto Santa’s interactive sleigh decked out with lights, bells, and buttons for imaginative play. Santa’s friendly elves will be there to greet you and capture that perfect holiday photo.
Festive Fun into the New Year
The festive fun doesn’t stop at Christmas! Cosy up for heartwarming winter tales in our hideaway or embark on a digital family trail through the Museum’s galleries, uncovering fascinating and quirky artifacts. Weekends and school holidays are extra special with appearances from costumed characters from London’s transport history.
All festive activities are included with your Museum ticket—and remember, kids go free!
Experience skating, fairs, and family-friendly entertainment in this iconic venue.
Dine with panoramic views of London while enjoying delicious seasonal cuisine – it’s dining elevated!
Join in on festive events designed especially for young children and families during this joyful time of year.
Catch free, festive street shows perfect for all ages while soaking up the holiday atmosphere.
Celebrate in iconic Hintze Hall surrounded by festive lights – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Enjoy festive screenings in stunning outdoor locations with Luna…and catch the always wonderful Christmas program down in Leicester Sq with The Prince Charles Cinema
Participate in seasonal plant displays, wreath-making workshops, and enjoy festive cheer throughout this beautiful garden
Explore the free outdoor light installations scattered around Canary Wharf. Perfect for Instagram-loving teens!
Highlight’s at Vauxhall include
Click here for details and check out our City Farm guide for your nearest venue…
London’s Best City Farms Guide
Take a peaceful stroll through beautiful Richmond Park on Christmas Day – it’s a lovely way to enjoy nature during the holidays!
Many museums offer free late openings with festive themes. Check individual museum websites for details. Check out our guide to the best museum’s for older kids and teens.
While the official New Year’s Eve firework display requires tickets, find a good vantage point along the Thames for a free view.
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
