My family is traveling to London arriving Christmas Day. I am very concerned that everything will be closed 12/25 and 12/26 (Boxing day) and over New Year's. Will we be able to find a place to eat? Are any sightseeing museums, etc. open? Is there a website that lists attractions/restaurants that are open during holidays?
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
25 December - Christmas Day
All attractions, museums, galleries and shops are closed on Christmas Day. There is also no train, Tube or bus services in operation. Taxis are available but be aware that they charge double rate for working Christmas Day. Some restaurants and pubs will open and City Cruises offer Christmas dinner on a special Christmas day river cruise. See the main Visitlondon.com site for ideas of where to eat Christmas Dinner nearer the time.
24/26 December - Christmas Eve/Boxing Day
Many of the museums and galleries are closed from 24-26 December. Attractions such as the BA London Eye, London Dungeon, Madame Tussaud’s, Tower Bridge Experience, St Paul’s Cathedral* and Westminster Abbey* are open *unless the 24/26 falls on a Sunday, then they are closed to tourists.
London transport runs a normal service on 24 December but transport stops running earlier. A reduced service is in operation on 26 December.
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
1 January - New Year’s Day
Some attractions, museums and galleries close on 1 January. Many shops either open for Sunday trading hours or stay shut. There is a reduced service on trains, Tubes and buses.
You shouldn't have a big problem finding someplace to eat as there are thousands of people in London who don't celebrate Christmas. Check out these websites for ideas :
http://www.timeout.com/london/restaurants/features/2328.html
http://www.londontown.com/London/Christmas_Day_Dining_in_London
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
Be sure to walk around Regent St, Bond St, Oxford, and Trafalgar/Covent Garden to see all the christmas lights and decorations. Trafalgar has a huge tree given as gift from Norway each year. There will be a big christmas fair in the SE Corner of Hyde Park with rides, giant ferris wheel, skating rink, a German Christmas market, food, and decorations. I am not sure if this will be open on Christmas Day.(Great if you have children)