Staying in London over the Winter Break? No problem. London never stops moving, and there's things happening all year round, even on Christmas Day - you're in the right place.

Ice things up

You don't have to be a member of Ice Club to get your skates on. Many of London's biggest ice rinks are open every day apart from 25 December, so why not join in with the fun and treat yourself to an overpriced hot chocolate afterwards?

Somerset House Ice Rink - worth entering King's College territory for.

Check out a strange Christmas tradition

Every year since 1864, the Peter Pan Cup is held on 25 December - a 100-yard swimming race in Hyde Park's Lido. Come down at 9AM, wrap up warm and watch them brave the cold. If you fancy a dip yourself, then Hampton Pool is open on Christmas Day.

We feel cold just looking at this photo.

Spread some cheer

If you've got time to spare over the festive season, there are so many charities that would appreciate an extra pair of hands for even an hour or two. Lifeafterhummus are seeking people to help redistribute food on 24 December - the biggest surplus food waste day of the year. Help them to collect and sort food to bring Christmas cheer to local hostels, after-school clubs and faith groups.

You can volunteer for Lifeafterhummus all year round!

Get on yer bike

While the tubes may basically come to a standstill on Christmas Day, it's the perfect day to explore London by bike without dealing with busy roads. At 11AM, many cyclists will meet at Southwark Needle for a free cycle tour of London's lesser-known sights, ending with a 'very reasonably priced' Christmas Lunch at a Lebanese restaurant in Edgware Road. How wholesome does that sound? Everyone is welcome, so feel free to wheel on in.

Wholesome vibes.

Go for a VIP tour of London

If you can't stand crowds, there is no better time to explore central London than on Christmas Day. Take a walk around Regent Street, Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square and beyond to enjoy the Christmas lights without the company of thousands of tourists. If you get peckish, some pubs and restaurants will still be open, even on the big day. Maybe give Oxford Street a miss on Christmas Eve/Boxing Day though (unless you're wanting to fight over the sale rails).

Imagine Regent Street, but without all this traffic. We're sure you can get a better photo than this.
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Last updated 3 months ago Read time 2 mins