Christmas in London Bridge

The air is crisp, the streets are bustling, and the spirit of Christmas fills every nook and cranny of London Bridge. As the city gears up for the most wonderful time of the year, there’s no better place to soak in the festive cheer than this historic and vibrant area of the capital. From enchanting markets to mesmerising lights, delightful shopping experiences to mouth-watering eats, London Bridge and the surrounding areas are a treasure trove of festive delights.

If you are looking for Christmassy ideas to do in London Bridge and the surrounding areas, read on, and we’re sure ‘yule‘ get plenty of inspiration for a ‘tree-mendous’ Christmas in London Bridge day out!

London Bridge Christmas Lights

Nothing says Christmas is coming like the turning on of the yearly Christmas lights. There are lots of wonderful Christmas light switch-on displays across the city. Here are a couple around the London Bridge area but if you miss the turn on, it’s okay, you can still enjoy them throughout the festive season!

The Shard Christmas lights

Not your traditional Christmas light affair, but still something to see! In early December the top of The Shard lights with some Christmassy colours. Why not head up there to enjoy the colours up close whilst admiring the views across the capital.  

South Bank Christmas lights

Southbank Centre has lots of fantastic Christmas events going on (more on that later). But taking a walk along the South Bank when all the Christmas lights are lit up is an absolute must if you want to get in the Christmas spirit!

London Eye Christmas lights

Every year the London Eye and surrounding areas get a Christmas makeover with some festive lights. The London Eye is right next door to the South Bank, so after you enjoy the light switch on, you can take a walk through the South Bank Christmas market.

London Bridge Christmas Markets

If you are looking for a Christmas market to get into the festive spirit, London is the place to be. You’ll find Christmas markets all over the capital, but if you are looking for Christmas Markets near London Bridge, there’s plenty to choose from.

Winter by the River at London Bridge City

The closest Christmas market to London Bridge is Winter by the River, one of London’s most popular Christmas markets. Previously called ‘Christmas by the River’, this market is set along the riverbank, you’ll find winter cabins selling Christmas crafts, gifts, snacks, delicious food stalls and pop-up bars.

It’s a wonderful market to soak up the Christmas atmosphere whilst admiring the views of Tower Bridge and the Thames.

Christmas at Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s most popular destinations and it is a must-visit during the Christmas season. You’ll find all your favourite vendors offering street food, and crafts plus there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from if you want to get in from the cold and have a bite to eat or a warm mulled wine!

Southbank Centre Winter Market

If you are looking for the whole Christmas package all wrapped up in one place, then a visit to the Southbank Centre is a must. Take a Christmassy stroll along The Thames from London Bridge west and you’ll reach the Southbank Centre in no time – well, in about 30 minutes!

The Christmas market along the South Bank has wonderful places to eat and shop, all in cute Christmas market-style huts. You can get your hands on some delicious Christmas street food, crafty gifts, sweet treats and some hot drinks to warm your cockles.

Ice Skating near London Bridge

Wrap up warm and get your skates on for a fun and festive activity. There are a few popular places to choose from to practise your ice-skating skills, here are a couple of notable places to try.

Somerset House

The closest ice-skating near London Bridge is Somerset House. This is one of the most popular places for ice skating in the capital. In 2023, the courtyard will get a Swiss winter transformation so make sure you bring those hats and gloves!

It’s not just ice skating you’ll find at Somerset House, there will be music, delicious food and tasty drinks to enjoy as well. There is also a skate school for the young ones or ice-skating newbies!

Winter Wonderland

If you do fancy going further afield, the ice skating at Winter Wonderland is a place you should try. The ice rink is built around a Victorian bandstand and is adorned with twinkle lights to give the area an authentic Christmas feel.

It’s not just ice skating you can do at Winter Wonderland, there are attractions, shows, food and drink stalls and more to keep you busy!

Tower of London at Christmas

Just over the Thames from London Bridge is the Tower of London, a must-see tourist destination for locals and tourists alike. This is no different at Christmas; the towers get a bit of a festive makeover and you can step back in time and have a Victorian Christmas experience like no other. Definitely worth the trip across the river!

Christmas at London Bridge Hotel

We hope these Christmas in London Bridge suggestions help you to plan a festive day out. If you don’t want the festivities to end, why don’t you book yourself a room at the London Bridge Hotel? We have elegant and comfortable rooms to suit all. Our classic rooms are cosy for couples and our spacious two-bedroom serviced apartments are ideal for families. We are also hosting private Christmas parties at our hotel, perfect for work Christmas parties or to get friends and family together for a delicious Christmas meal.

The hotel has a wonderful on-site bar which will be decorated to the nines with Christmas decorations, so you can sit with a Christmas cocktail or have a bite to eat whilst soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.