6 fun things for students to do this Christmas in London

It’s the festive season — which means more free things to do in London!

Forgive our exuberance but there’s a lot to get excited about. Great deals and offers can help you explore more of this city’s charms at little to no cost this month — despite being in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

London offers lots of free experiences for students. After all, the city houses historical museums, beautiful galleries, vibrant street art, live performances, and more. There’s no doubt there are many free things to do in London that will fill up your time outside of uni — if you know where to look.

Here’s a list of free things to do in London you should look out for this December: 

Celebrate Christmas without breaking the bank with these free things to do in London. Source: Isabel Infantes/AFP

Free things to do in London this Christmas

1. Visit the Ever After Garden

Want to be on Santa’s nice list? Head to Ever After Garden. 

Every year, Grosvenor Square gets lit up with over 20,000 glowing white roses for a special reason. The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity runs the garden, and anyone visiting the square can lay a rose in memory of a loved one for a minimum donation of 10 pounds to the charity. 

The garden is open until December 20. 

2. Sing your heart out at a carol concert

Stroll through London’s famed streets in December, and you’ll hear familiar tunes such as “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” or “Joy To The World.” 

Carol concerts are popular during this time of year. If you want to join the fun, click here to view the best last-minute Christmas carol services in London. Most of them are free. 

 

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3. See the snowfall in Covent Garden

Do you dream of experiencing a white Christmas? At Covent Garden, enjoy snow showers — which are a daily event in the run-up to the big day. 

It is part of the Christmas in Covent Garden festivities. Lights and Christmas trees are switched on from November 8 (though giant bauble and mistletoe decorations have been up since mid October.) Remember to snap a couple of pictures while you’re in the area. 

4. Enjoy London’s Christmas lights

If you could spare a few quid, hop on a bus to enjoy the Christmas light displays in London. 

Wander around Regent Street, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Carnaby and other areas in the dark to see London at its twinkly, festive best. Londonist has compiled a guide on the best routes to see these lights, including a handy map. 

 

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5. Visit Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

If you’re talking about Christmas in London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the place to be during December. You can enter the park during the off-peak period (an early weekday morning in November or early December), but you need to book in advance.

The best part? You can take your food in. Finding a place to sit, however, will be easier if you purchase meals at the park. Still, nothing stops you from soaking up the atmosphere — no sitting required.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland opens from Nov. 18, 2022 to Jan. 2, 2023.  

6. Explore the Southbank Centre Winter Market

Fancy exploring another quieter but iconic Christmas market? Head to Southbank Centre Winter Market. 

Every winter, the bank of the Thames gets turned into a frosty wonderland — filled with little wooden cabins selling gifts, warming drinks, and snacks galore. 

This year, chill at Jimmy’s Winter Lodge with its heated riverside snow globes. The best part? It’s free to enter. What better way to start the Christmas season than enjoying festive tunes, getting into the Christmas spirit, and soaking in the atmosphere.