The best festive events for families in London this December…

1. Hamley’s Santa’s Grotto  

Until 24 December  | Hamley’s Regent Street 

Little ones can meet the real Father Christmas in Hamley’s Christmas Grotto on Regent Street. The elves of ‘Hamley’s North Pole’ will guide you on your way to meet the big man himself, with promises of special surprises and a sprinkling of magic around every corner.

hamleys.com

2. Skate at Somerset House with Switzerland Tourism

Until 14 January 2024 | Somerset House

Returning for another year, Skate transforms Somerset House’s spectacular neo-classical courtyard into a magical festive destination, with a uniquely Swiss winter vibe courtesy of Switzerland Tourism. There will be unparalleled ice skating, rink-side DJ takeovers, winter dining, and festive experiences.

somersethouse.org.uk

3. Soltice at Battersea Arts Centre

Until 24 December | Battersea Arts Centre

A brand-new immersive light show, little ones will delights in this winter wonderland in the maze of Battersea Arts Centre’s corridors. The first collaboration between BAC and Wild Rumpus (an award-winning immersive events company), you’ll meet magical creatures along the way and explore the power of play.

bac.org.uk

4. Christmas at Kew

Until 7 January 2024 | 4.20pm to 10pm | Kew Gardens

From larger-than-life illuminations, to festive treats from independent street food vendors, and an opportunity to meet Father Christmas, there’s plenty to excite little ones at Kew Gardens this Christmas.

kew.org

5. Wishmas

Until 7 Jan | Old Bauble Factory, Waterloo

Meet Wishkeepers, Robins and Father Christmas himself in this 60 minute walkthrough experience. The perfect start to the festive season, little ones will delight in interactive elements as you explore magical rooms and play your part to make sure no wish is ever forgotten.

wishmas.co.uk

6. Southbank Centre Winter Festival

Until 7 Jan 2024 | Southbank Centre

With a winter market along the Thames, family-friendly performances including Bluey’s Big Play and The House with Chicken’s Legs, the Southbank’s annual Winter Festival doesn’t disappoint.

southbankcentre.co.uk

7. Glide at Battersea Power Station

Until 7 Jan 2024 | Battersea Power Station

Set against a backdrop of one of the capital’s most iconic buildings, the ice rink at Battersea Power Station is one of the most magnificent open-air ice rinks in the city. Little ones will have fun gliding around with picture-perfect views of the Thames.

batterseapowerstation.co.uk

8. Festive fun at London Wetland Centre

Until 7 Jan 2024 | London Wetland Centre

There’s lots on for families this festive season at London Wetland Centre. Free Christmas family workshops will see little ones making a Christmas card using natural materials, and you’ll also be able to give back to nature by making a pine cone feeder or a bug hotel.

wwt.org.uk

9. The Snowman at 40

Until 23 December | Royal Albert Hall

The Enchanted Cinema play tribute to Raymond Briggs’ with this interactive event that celebrates his seminal children’s book – The Snowman. Suitable for little ones of all ages, performers will ask for your help to create sound effects for imagery from the film including an owl, a toothbrush, a whale, the sea, a musical box, a running tap, feet jumping through the snow, and a tearaway motorbike.

royalalberthall.com

10. Baby Broadway Christmas Family Concerts

Throughout December | At various London locations

The whole family can enjoy singing and clapping along to seasonal showtunes from hit musicals and well-known songs from Christmas films, all performed by West End singers at the Baby Gospel Christmas Special. Baby-friendly and open to all ages from newborns to school age to grandparents. Concert lasts approx. 45 minutes.

babybroadway.co.uk

See more What’s On here.