Episode 170 Essential Tips for Visiting London at Christmas

In episode 170 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we share everything you need to plan an unforgettable Christmas or New Year trip to London. From what’s open and closed over the holidays to how to get around when public transport stops and why booking ahead for Christmas Day meals is essential, we’ve got you covered.

I’m also joined by Ollie from Discover Real London to talk about their Christmas Lights Taxi Tours, a magical way to see the city’s festive sparkle from a black cab.

Whether you’re exploring Christmas markets, strolling quiet streets on Christmas Day, or enjoying New Year’s celebrations, this episode has all the tips you need to make the most of your London holiday.

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Episode 170 – What you’ll learn in this episode

🎄 London is magical at Christmas but comes with unique challenges. Tracy explains what is open and closed, how to get around, and what to book in advance.

🚇 No public transport runs on Christmas Day. Learn about your options for airport transfers including National Express coaches and private taxis, plus how to plan for Boxing Day and New Year’s services.

🍽️ Most restaurants and pubs are closed on Christmas Day, but luxury hotels and select venues serve festive lunches. Reservations need to be made months ahead.

🛒 Supermarkets and food shops close early on Christmas Eve and remain shut on Christmas Day, so stock up in advance if you are self-catering.

🛍️ Boxing Day sales are legendary but crowded. Hear tips on where to shop and how to avoid the worst of the queues.

🧣 December weather can be cold and damp. Discover what to pack to stay warm and comfortable.

✨ The best places to see London’s Christmas lights including Regent Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, plus must-visit Christmas markets and the Trafalgar Square tree.

🚶‍♂️ Why Christmas Day is one of the best times to explore London’s landmarks without the usual crowds.

🎆 How to book tickets for New Year’s Eve fireworks and enjoy the New Year’s Day Parade.

🚖 Guest Ollie from Discover Real London reveals why their Black Cab Christmas Lights Tours are such a special way to experience the city’s festive sparkle.

📅 Why booking ahead between 21 and 31 December is essential, plus practical details on taxi tour timings, group sizes and policies.

UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned

Places

Carnaby Street – famous shopping street with festive lights
Covent Garden – central area known for shopping and Christmas decorations
Gatwick – major international airport south of London
Harrods – world-famous department store in Knightsbridge
Heathrow – major international airport west of central London
Hyde Park – large park in central London, home to Winter Wonderland
Old Bond Street – luxury shopping street in the West End
Oxford Street – major shopping street, hosts Boxing Day sales
Piccadilly – central London area, start of the New Year’s Day Parade
Regent Street – shopping street renowned for Christmas lights
Selfridges – iconic department store on Oxford Street
South Bank – area along the River Thames, known for its winter market
St Paul’s Cathedral – historic cathedral in London
Trafalgar Square – public square with the annual Christmas tree
Victoria Coach Station – main coach terminal in central London
Westfield Shopping Centre – large shopping mall in London
Westminster Abbey – famous church in central London

Foods

Duck and Waffle – well-known London restaurant that serves Christmas lunch
Marks and Spencer’s Simply Food – grocery store chain
Sainsbury’s – supermarket chain
Tesco – supermarket chain

Words / Concepts

Christmas lights taxi tour – private tour of London’s festive lights in a black cab
Discover Real London – sightseeing company specialising in black cab tours
Evensong – evening prayer service with music, held at churches such as St Paul’s and Westminster Abbey
National Express coaches – intercity coach service operating on Christmas Day
New Year’s Day Parade – festive parade through central London on 1 January
New Year’s Eve fireworks – ticketed event by the London Eye and Big Ben
Winter Wonderland – large annual Christmas market and fair in Hyde Park