10 Exciting Things to Do in London on Christmas with Children
Christmas morning in London feels loud in the best way. Stockings are emptied before breakfast, boxes are torn open, and children are already dressed by 8am, asking the same question again and again. What are we doing today? Their excitement is real, and it doesn’t switch off just because it’s Christmas Day.
That’s where many parents pause. When you search for things to do in London on Christmas, you find long lists, mixed advice, and very little clarity on what actually stays open or works for children.
After spending over a decade running and supporting children’s play spaces, we know how quickly festive excitement can turn into restlessness if the plan isn’t right. This blog cuts through the noise and gives you clear, child-approved ideas that fit Christmas Day in London, without stress, long walks, or closed doors.
Most Creative Things to Do in London on Christmas With Children
This is the part parents usually scroll for first. Clear options, no confusion, and ideas that actually work on Christmas Day in London. Below are things to do in London on Christmas that we’ve seen families and schools enjoy year after year, without chaos or disappointment.
1. Wonderland Christmas
Wonderland Soft Play Centre works on Christmas Day for one simple reason. It matches children’s energy without exhausting parents.
Warm and indoor: No weather worries, no frozen fingers.
Controlled movement: Children jump, climb, crawl, and release excitement safely.
Mixed-age friendly: Toddlers and older children play side by side without pressure.
Wonderland’s Indoor Fun Activities for Children sessions keep the setting familiar but festive. Children recognise the space, which helps them settle quickly, while decorations and music add a clear Christmas feel. You avoid queues, cold walks, and overstimulation.
Christmas Workshops With Our Elves
Play always comes first. Crafts come after, once children are calm and focused.
Make your own gingerbread men.
Personalised Christmas decorations
Reindeer food
Reindeer hot chocolate cones
Children stay busy, and parents finally finish a barista coffee while it’s still warm. Children leave with smiles and photos that feel real, not rushed.
2. Christmas Eve Soft Play, Play & Sleigh
Christmas Eve matters more than most people realise. By this point, excitement sits high, routines slip, and children find it hard to slow themselves down.
A structured soft play session helps release that extra energy in the right way.
Guided play keeps movement purposeful, not chaotic.
A clear start and finish avoids overtired meltdowns later in the day.
Schools find this format especially useful for calm, end-of-term outings.
Christmas Eve Soft Play and Play & Sleigh run on Wednesday, 24th December, with two well-paced sessions:
10am to 12pm
12.30pm to 2.30pm
Each 2-hour festive Soft Play Party for Kids session includes free play, organised games, and a Christmas snack box, so children stay engaged without feeling rushed. From years of experience, this kind of active play earlier in the day helps children settle better by bedtime. Parents usually notice the difference the same evening.
Book your chosen session at Exeter or Newton Abbot because there are only a few slots left.
3. Prancer Party
Themed parties work because children follow stories more easily than instructions. When a character leads the experience, children know what’s coming next without being told again and again.
Characters give children a clear focus.
Games feel organised rather than scattered.
Group behaviour settles naturally.
Each party includes 2 hours of play, with 30 minutes in the party room to slow things down and enjoy the celebration. Parents and teachers appreciate the practical touches too.
Downloadable invites and birthday shout-outs
Hot dogs, pizza, or a meal box
Unlimited squash and chocolate treats
Most importantly, Wonderland Play handles everything, from planning and organising to cleaning up after. No mess for you, no stress, just a smooth party from start to finish.
4. Outdoor Evergreen Classics
Some families still prefer outdoor options, and that’s fair. These remain popular things to do in London on Christmas, with one condition. Plan carefully.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Christmas at Kew
Ice skating rinks
Christmas lights walk around Leicester Square and Covent Garden.
They look magical, but crowds build quickly. These suit older children who can walk, wait, and cope with noise.
5. Calm Experiences for Slower Days
Not every family wants noise, jumping, and constant movement on Christmas Day. Some children slow down after the morning excitement, and some parents simply want space to breathe.
City farms offer quiet animal time.
Thames River cruises give seated sightseeing.
Christmas concerts and pantomimes suit relaxed schedules.
These work well for tired parents and children who prefer sitting, watching, and gentle movement.
Essential Tips Before You Step Out
Before you finalise plans or leave the house, this part matters. Many families search for things to do in London on Christmas and miss the practical details that decide whether the day feels smooth or stressful. A little clarity here saves time, money, and patience.
1. Things to Consider about Transport
On Christmas Day, transport works differently. The Tube usually does not run, and most regular bus services stop.
Plan routes you can walk with children.
Pre-book taxis if travel is essential.
Choose locations close to home or your stay.
From experience, families who stay local enjoy the day more. Less travel means fewer delays and calmer children.
2. What Will Be Closed
Christmas Day is not business as usual, and it helps to know this upfront.
Most shops remain shut.
Many museums and attractions close for the day.
Open venues are limited and fill quickly.
Knowing this early avoids disappointment at the door and last-minute plan changes.
3. Booking Is Not Optional
Anything open on Christmas Day requires planning.
Pre-booking secures your spot.
Prices are higher on the day.
Walk-ins rarely work.
Make sure you reserve everything in advance because events like Soft Play Centre in Exeter slots sell out in the blink of an eye.
4. Parent Checklist
Keep this simple and practical.
Choose indoor options like Soft Play Centre in Newton Abbot.
Pack snacks, wipes, and water.
Dress children in warm, easy layers.
Keep plans flexible.
Once these basics are covered, the day runs more easily.
Final Word
By now, one thing should feel clear. Planning things to do in London on Christmas does not need long lists or packed schedules. It needs the right balance. We’ve looked at options that keep children active without overwhelm, calm without boredom, and festive without stress. We’ve also covered the practical side: what stays open, how transport works, and why booking ahead makes a real difference.
From years of working with families and schools, we’ve learnt that children remember how a place made them feel, not how busy the day was. Warm spaces, safe play, clear plans, and time to breathe matter more than doing everything.
If you want Christmas Day to feel joyful rather than rushed, choose experiences that work with children, not against them. Start with what suits your group best, plan early, and keep it simple. That’s how Christmas stays special.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
For families, indoor play centres, Christmas-themed soft play, pantomimes, and festive parks work best. These places keep children warm, active, and engaged while giving parents a relaxed experience.
-
Choose activities that match the weather and energy levels. Soft play sessions, Christmas workshops, light walks to see decorations, or a short river cruise keep the day balanced and manageable.
-
Covent Garden stands out for its decorations, tree, and festive atmosphere. It feels lively without needing tickets and works well for families visiting for a short time.
-
Walking through Christmas light displays, visiting decorated public squares, and exploring festive streets cost nothing. City farms also offer low-cost or free entry on selected days.
-
Regent Street is widely known for its Christmas lights and wide pavements. It’s easy to walk with children and feels festive without needing to stop at every shop.