Christmas market London 2025
Experience Christmas in London by train
From mid-November to early January, London transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Throughout the city, lights twinkle, Christmas songs fill the air and festive markets offer treats and unique gifts. From the iconic Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square to the enchanting Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Christmas in London is a celebration for all the senses. With NS International, you can travel comfortably by train to London from just € 88 return.
A Christmas trip to London: shopping and soaking up the festive spirit
London is the perfect destination for anyone who loves Christmas and atmosphere. During the festive season, the city is beautifully decorated and filled with music. Christmas shopping in London is a special experience, with impressive window displays at department stores such as Harrods and Selfridges, and festive streets like Oxford Street and Regent Street. Thanks to Eurostar, you can easily take your purchases home: two suitcases and one piece of hand luggage are included, with no weight limit.
When are the Christmas markets in London?
Most Christmas markets in London are open from mid-November 2025 until the first week of January 2026.
The best Christmas markets and shopping in London
In and around London, dozens of Christmas markets take place every year. Most open from mid-November until the first week of January.
1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
The most famous and free Christmas market in London runs for six weeks, from the third week of November to the first week of January. It’s a must-visit during your Christmas trip to London. Alongside endless festive stalls, you can go ice-skating, play fairground games or admire London from the Ferris wheel. There are also plenty of food and drink options. Visit the Winter Wonderland website for full details and dates.
2. Southbank Center Winter Market
After Winter Wonderland, head to the South Bank, which transforms into a winter paradise full of activities.
A highlight of the Southbank Centre Winter Festival is the Winter Market, where you can wander past wooden chalets offering warm drinks and delicious snacks – all in full Christmas style.
3. Leicester Square Christmas Market
If you travel to London by train during Christmas, don’t miss the Leicester Square Christmas Market. Leicester Square is one of London’s most famous squares and becomes a cosy festive market in December. You can browse gifts, enjoy performances and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.
Your trip to London with Eurostar
Eurostar is the high speed train that travels daily from Amsterdam and Rotterdam to London. From Brussels Eurostar travels 300 km/h. Book your trip from the Netherlands from € 88. View your itinerary using the international itinerary planner.
Overview of train travel times to the Christmas market in London
| Route | Travel time | Transfer | Header | Header |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam - London | 4.20 | 0 | Content | Content |
| Utrecht - London | 4.54 | 1 | Content | Content |
| Schiphol - London | 4.24 | 1 | Content | Content |
| The Hague - London | 4.28 | 1 | Content | Content |
| Rotterdam - London | 3.29 | 0 | Content | Content |
| Breda - London | 4.15 | 1 | Content | Content |
| Eindhoven - London | 5.19 | 1 | Content | Content |
| Brussels - London | 2.46 | 0 | Content | Content |
| Groningen - London | 7.09 | 2 | Content | Content |
| Arnhem - London | 5.36 | 2 | Content | Content |
| Nijmegen - London | 5.48 | 2 | Content | Content |
| Tilburg - London | 4.51 | 1 | Content | Content |
Check the journey planner for the most up-to-date overview of departure times and transfers
Other things to do in London during Christmas
Beyond the Christmas markets, London offers countless festive highlights in December. Here are three experiences not to miss:
- Admire the city’s Christmas lights
Walk along Regent Street and Carnaby Street, where a new light design appears each year. The illuminated streets and decorated shop windows create a magical atmosphere in the heart of London. - Enjoy a classic Christmas performance
At the London Coliseum, the English National Ballet performs The Nutcracker, a beloved Christmas tradition that adds to the city’s enchanting charm. - Experience Boxing Day in London
On 26 December, the city comes alive. During the day, Premier League stadiums fill with fans for traditional football matches, while the shopping streets bustle with bargain hunters taking advantage of the Boxing Day sales.
Christmas market in London
Tips London
Seen Big Ben and Buckingham Palace yet? Hop on Eurostar and also discover a different London.
New Year's Eve in London
Celebrate New Year's Eve by visiting the fireworks display near the London Eye and Big Ben! Or choose to ring in the new year from the Thames.
Hotels in London
Special or luxury accommodation; read our tips for the best hotels.
Restaurants in London
Check out the best restaurants in London. From Gordon Ramsay to Ottolenghi.
Walking tours London
Walking in London is the best way to get to know the city. And you will see more on foot than by travelling by underground.
