A Festive London Itinerary: How We Spent Christmas Week in the UK

London during Christmas is magical — glowing lights, decorated streets, festive markets, and a cozy holiday atmosphere you can’t replicate any other time of year. But it also comes with quirks: many shops close, restaurants switch to expensive set menus, and the city moves at a slower, quieter pace.

Here’s exactly how we spent our London portion of our multi‑city trip from San Francisco → London → Paris → New York, including what worked, what surprised us, and what we’d recommend if you’re visiting London during the holidays.

Day 1 — Red‑Eye Flight from San Francisco to London

We kicked off the trip with a red‑eye flight from San Francisco to London, landing the next day ready to explore.

Day 2 — Arrival in London & Christmas Lights in Covent Garden

After landing, we checked into Marlin Apartments, Canary Wharf, a great home base with easy access to transportation.

With most shops already closing early for the holiday week, we headed straight to Covent Garden and Chinatown to soak in the Christmas lights, decorations, and festive atmosphere. Even with limited shopping, the area felt alive and beautifully lit.

Dinner: Mother Mash – Covent Garden (7 PM) Comfort food, warm atmosphere, and perfect for a chilly December night.

Day 3 — Christmas Day in London (Quiet Streets & Holiday Dining)

Christmas Day in London is very quiet — almost everything is closed, transportation is limited, and the city feels peaceful. We embraced the slower pace.

Lunch: Grilandia – Mayfair (1:30 PM) One of the few places open on Christmas Day.

After lunch, we walked through Regent Street, enjoying the holiday storefront lights and decorations. With shops closed, it became a relaxed, scenic walk instead of a shopping trip.

Dinner: La Cucina Di Daffy (8 PM) A cozy Christmas dinner to end the night.

Day 4 — Boxing Day: Sketch, Soho, Carnaby Street & Big Ben

Boxing Day is usually a huge shopping day in London — but this year, many stores were still closed or operating with limited hours. We pivoted and focused on experiences instead.

Girls’ Afternoon Tea: Sketch – 12 PM to 1:30 PM A highlight of the trip. Sketch is iconic, whimsical, and perfect for holiday season photos.

Afternoon: We watched a soccer match at Green Man Bar in Soho, then wandered around Carnaby Street, which was beautifully decorated even though many shops were closed.

Later, we walked toward Big Ben and the nearby bridge for classic London views.

Dinner: The Ivy – Canary Wharf Holiday set menus were pricey and options were limited, but The Ivy delivered a solid festive dinner.

Day 5 — Notting Hill, Hyde Park Market & Dishoom

We started the day exploring Notting Hill, one of London’s most charming neighborhoods. Even with shops closed, the colorful streets and quiet vibe made it a great holiday stroll.

Hyde Park Market – 1 PM A festive outdoor market with food stalls and holiday treats.

Dinner: Dishoom – Canary Wharf Always a favorite. Warm, flavorful Indian food — perfect for a winter night.

Day 6 — Train to Paris

We wrapped up our London stay and took the train from London to Paris to continue our multi‑city holiday adventure.

What to Expect in London During Christmas Week

London is stunning during the holidays, but it’s important to know what you’re walking into:

1. Many shops are closed

Especially on December 25–26, and even leading up to Christmas Eve.

2. Restaurants often switch to set menus

These are festive but can be expensive and limited.

3. Transportation is reduced

Christmas Day has almost no public transit.

4. The city is quieter

Fewer crowds, peaceful streets, and a cozy holiday vibe.

5. Holiday lights are incredible

Covent Garden, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Soho are must‑see areas.

Highlights of Our London Holiday Trip

Even with closures and limited dining options, we loved:

  • Covent Garden Christmas lights
  • Regent Street holiday decorations
  • Sketch Afternoon Tea
  • Soho pubs & soccer match atmosphere
  • Carnaby Street
  • Big Ben & Westminster Bridge
  • Notting Hill stroll
  • Hyde Park Market
  • Dishoom dinner

Would We Recommend London at Christmas?

Absolutely — if you plan ahead.

London is magical during the holidays, but you need to expect:

  • Limited shopping
  • Set menus
  • Fewer restaurant choices
  • Quiet streets
  • Early closures

If you’re looking for festive vibes, cozy dinners, holiday lights, and slower travel days, it’s perfect.

If you want full shopping, nightlife, and restaurant variety, visit earlier in December or after New Year’s.