London
51°30′ N 0°08′ WCityPop. 8,799,728England
London suits a Christmas trip built on big seasonal fairs, river walks and connections to the rest of Europe, though its markets lean towards fairground rides and street food. In 2026 the Christmas fair in Hyde Park runs from 19 November to 3 January 2027 by timed ticket.
Who should base here
London is where most trips to Britain start, and Eurostar arrives at St Pancras from Paris and Brussels. Its Christmas markets lean towards big fairs and riverside food stalls, with the Christmas fair in Hyde Park open from 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
London's Christmas is spread thin across a huge city. The biggest event is the Christmas fair in Hyde Park, a ticketed site of rides, an ice rink and market stalls. The Southbank Centre's market on the Thames is smaller and mostly food and drink.
London works best as the gateway to the rest of the trip. Eurostar arrives at St Pancras, and trains from King's Cross next door run north to York and Edinburgh.
Worth knowing
- Book the Hyde Park fair ahead online, since peak sessions sell out.
- Plan Boxing Day travel around the Elizabeth line closure.
Quick answers about London
Does London have Christmas markets?
Yes. London's largest is the Christmas fair in Hyde Park, open from 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, and the Southbank Centre runs a winter market on the Thames.
Is London a good place to stay?
London is where most trips to Britain start, and Eurostar arrives at St Pancras from Paris and Brussels. Its Christmas markets lean towards big fairs and riverside food stalls, with the Christmas fair in Hyde Park open from 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.