Twiddling your thumbs for things to do before Christmas Day? We've got you covered this 24th of December. From decadent dinners in private igloos to toasting in Champagne bars, here's our list of top Christmas Eve events in London that'll get your festivities off to a flying start.
@ Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel on Wednesday 9th and Friday 11th December 2026
@ The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel on Thu, 24th Dec 2026 @ 12:30 - 23:00
Make your holiday unforgettable this year with an exquisite Christmas Eve lunch or dinner at Butlers Restaurant, located inside the luxurious Chesterfield Mayfair. With seating options available from 12.30m to 2.30pm, or 6.30pm to 9.30pm, this festive dining experience is perfect for gathering with family and friends.
You'll delight in a warm, elegant seasonal ambiance while dining from a curated à la carte menu, accompanied by background music. For those planning a larger holiday gathering, private room options like The Library are also available.
@ Roscorp Laboratories on Various dates from Sunday 11th October 2026
@ Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus on Thu, 24th Dec 2026 @ 17:00 - 22:30
Attending a festive dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe on Christmas Eve, what could go wrong? Except the slight possibility that it may be a tough act to follow when it comes to cooking on Christmas Day... but with a feast this epic, it's surely worth the risk.
With enough room for the whole family and three courses on the agenda, this is a spread for both kids and adults with big appetites. Tuck in as you admire the iconic memorabilia plastered across the walls, and you can even order a festive cocktail if you're feeling like going all out for the occasion.
@ Moonshine Saloon on Various dates from Sunday 11th October 2026
Be transported to the Wild West for one night only, when you enter Moonshine Saloon in Houndsditch. This unique immersive experience will have you smuggling in your favourite spirit to give to the bartenders, who'll whip up four bespoke cocktails from it - but be sure to avoid the Sheriff.
You'll become a part of the story here, playing card games with locals and getting involved in the covert liquor operation. Plus, their tailor will give you a themed outfit so you'll fit right in.
There's nothing nicer than a family walk on Christmas Eve, and luckily for us, there are plenty of places to go in the city. We've rounded up ten of our very favourite routes, finishing up at a cosy pub to toast to the occasion.
Whether you feel like strolling through the Walthamstow Wetlands, admiring the beauty of Richmond Park or setting off from Hackney Wick to Angel, there's something to suit everyone here.
If you're looking for the best things to do on Christmas Eve in London, there's nothing better than taking a last trip to one of the city's greatest Christmas markets. Whether you're buying some last minute presents or just hunting down some mulled wine to celebrate the occasion, there are plenty of festive hotspots open on the 24th.
Southbank Christmas market is always a top choice for views of the Thames while you browse, or check out options in Covent Garden, Greenwich or Spitalfields instead - being sure to head to a nearby bar afterwards.
Celebrate Christmas Eve in London 2024 with the ultimate winter activity: ice skating. Whether it's with friends or family, whirling round the rink (or hugging the wall) is a guaranteed way to get you feeling festive ahead of the big day.
We've rounded up the top spots across the city to get your skate on, from Glide at Battersea Power Station to Somerset House and Alexandra Palace - with a variety of locations and budgets.
Located in Richmond, Kew Gardens is the stunning royal palace that's been transformed into a botanical hotspot, dating back to the 18th century. There are more than 50,000 living plants on display, as well as over 7 million preserved specimens. You'll also find the world's largest Victorian glasshouse here, while the Palm House features an indoor tropical rainforest.
Christmas At Kew features their famous light trail, spanning across over three kilometers of mesmerising illuminations, glittering tunnels, bejeweled trees and more. Plus, there'll be independent vendors selling hot food, sweet treats and winter warmers.
When you think of Christmas in London, there's one thing that springs to mind: Winter Wonderland. There's nowhere that'll get you feeling more festive ahead of the 25th, so head to Hyde Park and soak up the atmosphere from one of its many themed bars.
There are also a huge variety of street food vendors and market stalls - great for any last minute gifts. You can also hop on fairground rides such as the helter skelter or a giant wheel that provides amazing views, and there's an ice-skating rink as well.
