A family Christmas in London is nothing short of magical! Spending the festive season in the British capital is a unique adventure, where glittering illuminations and a magical atmosphere mingle with the hustle and bustle of the streets. However, the huge crowds and relatively high prices at this time of year mean that you need to prepare well in advance to make the most of your stay. In this article, you’ll find the itinerary we followed for 5 days, with unforgettable moments under the Christmas lights, a must-see visit to Harry Potter Studios and a magical Lion King show. We’ll also share practical tips on organization (transport, accommodation) and advice on how to make the most of your stay.
London at Christmas: some realities to bear in mind
Spending Christmas in London is a unique adventure, where twinkling illuminations and a fairytale atmosphere mingle with bustling streets. However, it’s essential to be well prepared, especially when traveling with the family. London is already a destination renowned for its relatively high prices, but during the festive season these rise even higher, whether for accommodation, restaurants or certain tourist attractions. Anticipating costs and planning activities in advance are therefore crucial to making the most of a stay in London over the festive season.
In addition to prices, you also need to take into account thecrowds. London is extremely popular during this period, and the streets can be crowded, especially around major points of interest like Oxford Street, Covent Garden or the Christmas markets. It can be difficult to fully enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst the crowds. If you have children, this can add an extra logistical challenge, so planning breaks in quieter spots may be wise.
Boxing Day, December 26, is also the day of the long-awaited sales. If you’re planning to go shopping, expect huge crowds in the stores, especially on Oxford Street, London’s shopping mecca. A must for bargain-seekers, this day is also synonymous with long queues and heavy traffic on public transport.
Nevertheless, despite these challenges, London remains an enchanting destination for families, offering unforgettable memories. Our itinerary was carefully designed to combine sightseeing highlights with moments of relaxation, so that we could enjoy the city to the full without being overwhelmed by the hectic pace of the festive season. It enabled us to discover several of the British capital’s gems while sharing warm family moments throughout our stay. I’ll tell you all about it below.
London – Practical info
How to get to London?
To get to London, there are several transport options available to you. Whether you choose to travel by plane, train, car, bus or ferry, each mode of transport has its advantages. Simply select the one that best suits your schedule and budget!
By plane, flight time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Brussels or Paris, with prices generally varying between €50 and €150 return from Paris and between €60 and €200 from Brussels. London is served by several airports, including Heathrow, well connected to the center via the Heathrow Express and the Underground (Piccadilly line), Gatwick, accessible via the Gatwick Express, and Stansted, which offers connections to the center via the Stansted Express train.
If you’re traveling from other UK or European cities, the train is an excellent option. TheEurostar connects Paris (Gare du Nord) or Brussels (Gare du Midi) with London (St Pancras International) in around 2 hours and 15 minutes from Paris and around 2 hours from Brussels. It’s one of the fastest ways to reach London from France or Belgium. Eurostar ticket prices generally range from €50 to €300 each way, depending on the booking period, the class chosen (standard, standard premier or business) and demand. In high season, prices can be higher, especially during vacation periods.
For those who prefer to take the road, the journey from Paris via the Channel Tunnel takes around 6 hours, including the crossing. From Brussels, allow around 5h30. The tunnel crossing itself takes around 35 minutes. Ticket prices, which we advise you to book well in advance on theEurotunnel website, vary according to season, departure time and vehicle size, with prices starting from €60 for a one-way ticket.
➜ Booking our tickets at the end of September, we paid €294 round trip for 1 vehicle and 5 passengers, from December 26 to 31.
If you choose this option, bear in mind that London traffic can be heavy and driving is on the left-hand side of the road, which can be disconcerting for the unaccustomed. What’s more, finding a parking space in the city center can quickly become a real headache, and congestion charges apply in some areas. It’s therefore advisable to plan your itinerary carefully and explore parking options in advance.
Bus companies such as FlixBus and National Express offer connections between London and many European cities. This is often the cheapest option, but the journey can be longer. For a different experience, you can also consider ferries or river cruises from coastal towns or other ports, although this is not the most common method of reaching central London.
Getting around London
London is well served by an extensive public transport network, offering convenient journeys by tube, bus, streetcar and train. Here are the main companies according to the type of transport used:
- Transport for London (TfL): manages the London Underground, buses, streetcars and the London Overground.
- National Rail: for commuter and intercity rail journeys.
- Thames Clippers: for boat trips on the Thames.
Depending on how often you use public transport, you can buy one-way tickets, but it’s often cheaper to use an Oyster card or contactless bank card for unlimited journeys at a reduced fare.
- Standard Underground ticket: from £2.50 with an Oyster card or contactless card, valid for a single journey in zone 1.
- 24-hour pass: approx. £13.50 for unlimited travel in zones 1-2 with an Oyster card.
- Travelcard 7 days: from £38.40 for unlimited travel in selected zones.
➜ If you like walking, using public transport isn’t always essential. Reaching the farthest attractions by metro or bus and walking the rest of the way will allow you to discover many aspects of the city while enjoying the Christmas lights.
Where to stay in London?
Overview by district
London offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are a few suggestions for neighborhoods with the main attractions within walking distance…
Covent Garden is a lively neighborhood, renowned for its stores, restaurants and theaters, making it an ideal place to enjoy London’s nightlife. In terms of accommodation, you’ll find a range of options from luxury hotels to youth hostels.
Nearby attractions include the Royal Opera House, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.
➜ The Zedwell Piccadilly Circus is a modern, minimalist hotel located in the heart of London’s West End, a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Piccadilly Circus. The soundproofed rooms, and no outside windows, include options for 4 people, convenient for groups or families, making it an ideal choice for recharging your batteries while still being at the center of London’s bustle.
The City is a bustling business district, a symbol of London’s economic dynamism and the ideal place to live in the historic heart of the city, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and sophisticated boutiques. Here you’ll find a selection of modern, high-end hotels.
Nearby attractions include St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and the charming Leadenhall Market.
Mayfair and Marylebone are two of London’s most exclusive districts, renowned for their designer boutiques and refined restaurants. Accommodation is just as prestigious, with a selection of luxury hotels and elegant apartments to guarantee a comfortable, chic stay.
Nearby attractions: Hyde Park, Oxford Street and Selfridges department stores
Soho is a lively district, renowned for its effervescent nightlife, numerous restaurants and theaters, making it the ideal choice for those wishing to immerse themselves in London’s bohemian ambience, especially during the Christmas illuminations. Accommodation is varied, from modern hotels to friendly inns, to suit all budgets.
Nearby attractions: Leicester Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue
South Kensington and Chelsea are chic neighborhoods, prized for their world-famous museums, beautiful parks and upmarket boutiques. Accommodation here is of a high standard, offering a range of upmarket hotels and family apartments.
Nearby attractions include the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum and Kensington Palace.
Camden Town is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood, famous for its lively markets and alternative culture, offering a unique atmosphere for visitors seeking diversity. Accommodation in this area is accessible, with many affordable hotels and hostels, perfect for families or travelers on a budget.
Nearby attractions: Camden Market, Regent’s Canal and the Roundhouse
London Bridge is a vibrant part of London, ideally located close to historic attractions and a vibrant dining scene, while offering easy access to public transport. Accommodation options include contemporary hotels and hostels, perfect for different budgets.
Nearby attractions: Tower Bridge, Borough Market, The Shard and HMS Belfast
South Bank is a vibrant district with breathtaking views of the River Thames. For accommodation, you’ll find modern hotels and apartments with river views.
Nearby attractions: London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, The Graffiti Tunnel and Borough Market
Notting Hill is an enchanting London neighborhood, famous for its colorful houses, lively markets and friendly cafés. Boutique hotels and bed breakfasts add to the warm, local atmosphere.
Nearby attractions: Portobello Road Market, Holland Park, Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace
Shoreditch is a trendy neighborhood, renowned for its independent boutiques, vibrant street art and lively nightlife. Accommodation is varied, with modern hotels and hostels offering a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Nearby attractions: Brick Lane, Old Spitalfields Market, Shoreditch High Street and Columbia Road Flower Market
Where to sleep in London with children?
For a family holiday in London, it’s best to choose central neighborhoods to limit travel time and make the most of your stay.
Southwark is a quiet, airy district close to the River Thames, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the City. It’s an ideal place to relax after a day’s exploring.
Bloomsbury is a residential area close to St Pancras, with excellent transport links. It offers easy access to London’s main tourist attractions as well as Heathrow and Gatwick airports, making it convenient for families on the move.
Finally, Paddington is a peaceful neighborhood at the foot of Hyde Park. Although slightly removed from the historic center, Paddington offers accommodation that is often more affordable than Southwark and Bloomsbury, while remaining close to the city’s attractions. With excellent transport links, it’s an ideal location for families and business travelers alike.
What areas of London should I avoid?
If you have a choice, it is advisable to avoid the following London districts:
- Brixton: Although this neighborhood is known for its vibrant music scene, it is also associated with drug trafficking.
- Canning Town: Although lively, this neighborhood can present risks, especially when it comes to crime.
- Elephant Castle: This area should be avoided, especially at night. On the other hand, it’s relatively safe during the day around the metro station.
- Finsbury Park Seven Sisters: Although fairly quiet during the day, some areas can be less safe at night. It is therefore advisable to remain vigilant.
- Harlesden Tottenham Hale : Off-center and far from the main attractions, these neighborhoods can involve long public transport journeys.
- Peckham: This district is often perceived as unsafe due to a high crime rate. However, it is being renovated and is full of authentic shops. By staying in the busy areas, there shouldn’t be any problems.
- Willesden Junction: This neighborhood has a high crime rate, making it an area to avoid.
➜ For our part, given the high prices of accommodation in the center during the festive season, we opted for a semi-basement located in Little Portugal, just a short walk from Stockwell station. Although a little out of the way, being only 5 minutes from the metro made it much easier for us to get around, whether during the day or in the evening. We also really appreciated the friendly, familiar surroundings, ideal for relaxing and recuperating after our busy days of sightseeing.
5 days in London with your family: Itinerary
Day 1: Christmas lights
After a smooth crossing via the Channel Tunnel, we arrived in London mid-afternoon. Located in Little Portugal, in the south-west of the city, our accommodation has a private parking space, a valuable asset when driving around London. After a quick settling-in, we take the Tube from Stockwell to Battersea Power Station to board Lift 109, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the capital. We then take the bus to Oxford Street, where we admire the famous Christmas lights. The day ends with a stroll along Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, immersed in the magical atmosphere of the festive season.
Day 2: From Greenwich to Harry Potter
Early in the morning, we drive to Greenwich. After parking in a pre-scouted parking lot, we walk down to the impressive Greenwich Foot Tunnel. We pass the Cutty Sark before visiting theOld Royal Naval College, famous for its Painted Hall. We then explore Queen’s House and its tulip-shaped staircase, before visiting the captivating National Maritime Museum. After a tour of Greenwich Market, we enjoy a pizza before plunging into the magical world of the famous wizard. Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour .
Day 3: History and panoramic views
Our third day begins with a trip back in time with a visit to the London Mithraeum, a fascinating archaeological site dating back to Roman times. We continue our walk to the iconic Tower Bridge, then discover the charming surroundings of St Katharine Docks Marina. Then it’s on to the Sky Garden for a breathtaking view of the city. We conclude the day with a stroll through the magnificent Leadenhall Market before enjoying the view from The Lookout.
Day 4: Culture, Nature and Theatrical Magic
To avoid the crowds, we visit St Paul’s Cathedral first thing in the morning, enjoying a moment of calm before the massive influx of tourists. We then admire the view from Horizon 22, before taking a break in the greenery of the Barbican Conservatory. After a quick stop at the Natural History Museum – where the crowds only allow us to visit the main halls – we finish on a high note with a hilarious performance of Cinderella at the Lyric Theatre.
Day 5: From Street Art to The Lion King
Our last day in London began with an exploration of the Graffiti Tunnel, followed by a stroll through the charming alleyways of Soho. After a break at the Now Building to admire the captivating installation The Butterfly Trail, we crossed Chinatown before heading to Covent Garden and the vibrant Seven Dials Market. The day ended in style with the sumptuous musical The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre.
How much should you budget for a family holiday in London?
By carefully planning activities, booking in advance and maximizing free attractions, our budget for a family stay in London came to around 3,000 euros, broken down as follows:
- Transport to London: €294 (Shuttle)
- Accommodation: €1,600 for 5 nights (Airbnb)
- Lift 109: €100
- Royal Museums Greenwich: €12
- Old Royal Naval College: €34.78
- Harry Potter Studios: €231.85
- Tower Bridge: €45.10
- Cinderella: €110.13
- The Lion King: €170.99
- Free attractions: Access to sites such as Queen’s House, the National Maritime Museum, the Sky Garden, the London Mithraeum, the Guildhall Art Gallery, and the Barbican Conservatory with no admission charge but by reservation.
Visiting London as a family is an enriching experience, combining culture, history and entertainment. By choosing suitable neighborhoods, carefully planning activities and opting for free attractions, it’s possible to discover the city without breaking the bank.
If you have any questions or would like us to organize your next stay in London, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
