Things to do on Christmas Day in London

You won’t find many people on the street on December 25 but the capital’s stunning Christmas lights will still be sparkling. Empty pavements and bus-free views will only make a tour of the capital’s best crimbo decorations all the more magical. If you live local to central London, it’s the perfect way to add some sparkle to your Christmas day walk.

Shake off that hangover and work up an appetite worthy of Christmas lunch with a morning swim in (the mercifully heated) Hampton Pool, which is open on Christmas Day (you need to book a place in advance). Waterproof Santa hat optional. 

London’s Chinatown is a great place to head on December 25 if you fancy a non-festive bite to eat. Most of the restaurants stay open as usual. Nothing like a Christmas bowl of dan dan noodles, is there?

You can forget about getting the tube on Christmas Day, but there are other ways to get around the city. Whizz along London’s deserted cycle lanes, parks and paths on a bike while the rest of the city lounges around on the sofa. 

There’s no better way to walk off a big meal (or work up an appetite for one) than by taking a brisk stroll. Step outside this Christmas Day and soak up London’s scenic walks, all perfect for a festive stretch of the legs.

Yes it's cold out. Yes the trees will soon be bare. But we're lucky to have some amazing parks in London, and walking around in them (as long as you live close by) is one of the nicest things to do on Christmas day. So get out there and enjoy some bracing green space.