Complimentary consultationChristmas in London, 2026 →
December 2026
Five days of palaces, lights and a little Hogwarts, at a pace that leaves room for tea
There is a particular kind of person who, on hearing that London is beautiful at Christmas, immediately begins to make a list. We know this because we are that kind of person. The list starts sensibly enough - the lights on Regent Street, a palace or two, something for the children - and by the third page it includes four castles, a pantomime, every Christmas market in the city and a firm intention to be in bed by ten. Nobody has ever managed the last item.
We would gently suggest another approach. Five days, one good thing for each of them, and the list left with us. We have written it many times, and we have learned, mostly by walking too far in the wrong shoes, which parts are worth it.
Day by day
Day 1
You arrive, and London does the rest. A private Black Cab tour takes you past the landmarks and down the small streets that only cab drivers seem to know, with a commentary that is usually half history and half opinion. Then up in the London Eye, for a view of everything you will see this week, and a few things you will save for next time.
Day 2
An exclusive guided tour of the East Wing of Buckingham Palace, a part of the palace most visitors only ever see from the other side of the railings. Afterwards, a traditional afternoon tea, which we consider an essential part of any royal day. In the evening, the shop windows and lights of Regent Street, and a quiet word with yourself about the luggage allowance.
Day 3
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour, dressed for Christmas: the Great Hall, the costumes, the sets, and the small details that took years to make and a second to notice. Expect to stay longer than planned. Everybody does. Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross is on the way, for the photograph with the trolley.
Day 4
Windsor Castle at Christmas in the morning, the oldest occupied castle in the world and quite at home in its festive decorations. Then back towards London for Christmas at Kew, where the gardens are lit after dark, or the Covent Garden Christmas Market, for those who prefer their lights with mulled wine.
Day 5
A slow morning, a last walk, and perhaps one more shop for the presents you remembered on the way to the airport. Then home, with rather more luggage than you came with.
This is where we begin, and every family takes it somewhere of its own. We would be glad to add private tours, a pantomime or The Nutcracker, a special dinner, or a few extra days in London or beyond. Tell us who is coming and what they love, and we will shape the rest around them.
Plan my London ChristmasIncluded
Arranged separately
Your advisor
“London in December has far too much glitter for one trip, so I choose the good bits, and I always leave room for tea.”
Tell us who is coming and which days suit you, and we will take it from there. Start a conversation and an advisor will answer, usually the same day.
Christmas dates in London are limited, so we would suggest getting in touch sooner rather than later.