FeaturedGet ready to explore the City of London’s rich array of ancient and modern buildings for free during Open House Festival 2026.
12.09.2026
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20.09.2026
This article relates to December 2025. To find out about the latest events happening across the City now, you can view our What's On page to search by date and topic.
The festivities continue into December in the City of London, making it the perfect time to plan an outing with friends and family. From carol concerts, lantern parades, fascinating lectures and exhibitions, there is so much to explore this month.
Here’s a rundown of some of the best things to do in the City of London this December.
1. Admire Christmas trees, follow lights trail, and let the festive magic happen (all month)
Wander through the City of London to find beautifully decorated Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive installations at iconic locations.
Use the map to locate them and plan an enjoyable walk around the City of London.
2. Attend a secret concert in a Grade I-listed hidden gem (Friday 5 December)
Have you ever visited the Barts North Wing, inside St Bartholomew’s Hospital, the oldest hospital in Britain? This hidden gem was recently reopened to the public, after years of restoration.
On Friday 5 December, Sofar Sounds will transform its Great Hall into an intimate concert space where incredible artists get up-close and personal.
Time: doors open 7.30pm. Tickets: £29.
The Hogarth Stair, in the Barts North Wing, St Bartholomew’s Hospital
3. Join the celebrations of Aldgate in Winter Festival (Thursday 4 and Friday 5 December)
Kick off the festive season at the Aldgate in Winter Festival, a community favourite returning for its ninth year.
Expect festive giveaways and live performances on the Thursday, and more fun with the main event on the Friday, with live performances on The Aldgate Stage, creative workshops, a mesmerizing Lantern Parade through the streets of Aldgate, and a warming free community feast.
See what else is on this festive season in the City of London.
4. Listen to Christmas carols and concerts (various dates in December)
There are over 40 Christmas carols and concerts happening in the City of London this festive season.
Whether you're looking for a cosy candlelight concert, Christmas movie soundtracks, family concerts, carols at stunning historic churches, or a well-deserved mulled wine and mince pie after all that singing, there is so much happening to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Read our round-up of the best (and mostly free) Christmas carols and concerts this season and stay tuned for more details coming up soon.
See what else is on this Christmas in the City of London.
5. Don't forget to visit these exhibitions closing very soon
Here is your last chance to enjoy three exhibitions across the City of London.
Evelyn De Morgan: The Modern Painter in Victorian London (until 4 January 2026): One of the most remarkable artists of her generation, Evelyn De Morgan’s powerful work is on display at Guildhall Art Gallery this year in a major exhibition that premiered two newly restored artworks.
Blondie in Camera 1978 (until 5 January 2026): Blondie takes centre-stage in a free photographic exhibition at the Barbican Music Library.
Jane and Louise Wilson: Performance of Entrapment (until 17 January 2026): Inspired by the Roman temple of Mithras, and artefacts discovered on the site, Performance of Entrapment offers a powerful reflection on ancient shrines, time and renewal in an immersive installation which weaves together film, archaeology, and contemporary art.
Storm Spirits. Evelyn De Morgan Foundation
6. Stroll around Christmas Markets in the City of London
Leadenhall Market (until Thursday 4 January): enjoy the cosy Alpine Lodge everyday, for seasonal drinks and festive treats in a beautifully decorated pop-up setting. Don't miss the festive workshops on 3, 6 and 10 December, as well as the SoLo Craft Fair on Saturday 13 December.
Paternoster Square and St Pauls (until 24 December): find this festive market nestled next to the iconic St Paul's Cathedral, for a selection of artisan food stalls, bespoke jewellery and knitwear, and sizzling street-food. A not to be missed enchanting market where beautifully decorated cabins make for the picture-perfect postcard.
Makers market in New Street Square (Tuesday 2 to Thursday 4 December): don't miss out on this year's magical Winter Festival at New Street Square in the heart of the Fleet Street Quarter. Featuring a cosy Christmas cabin, carollers, traders from Crafty Fox Market selling handmade goods, and even an appearance from Snoopy!
See what else is on this festive season in the City of London.
Fleet Street Quarter's Makers Market.
7. Explore three free new exhibitions at Hypha Galleries at No.1 Poultry (from 12 December)
If you miss the current exhibitions at Hypha Galleries at No.1 Poultry (until Saturday 6 December), here are three new, free exhibitions opening on Friday 12 December in these galleries in the City of London:
- Cheapside, curated by Rachel Mortlock & India Stanbra, to unfold through uncanny, surreal works – stretched, fleshy and strange – that draw on the area’s commercial past. Open Thursday to Sunday, 12 to 6pm.
- Betts, curated by Sam Jacob, a nomadic gallery dedicated to curating exhibitions around architecture, supporting both young and established practices.
- Processing Process – No EnD In SiTe, curated by Raisa Desypri & Korina Pavlidou, bringing together a transdisciplinary group of artists exploring relationality, transformation, and the dynamics of process. Open Wednesday to Friday (2 to 6pm) and Saturday (12 to 6pm).
8. Learn something new with one of these fascinating lectures at Gresham College
From Mars with Love: Postcards from 50 Years of Exploring The Red Planet (Wednesday 3 December): during the fifty years since the launch of the Viking spacecraft to Mars, our view of the red planet has changed from hostile desert to a world which was once covered in water, and which may just possibly sustain life. Lavishly illustrated with the latest images from the fleet of spacecraft that have explored our neighbour, this lecture considers how Mars’ fate, like that of Earth, was set in the Solar System’s first billion years, and the chaotic environment the process of planet formation produced.
Life, Death and Judgement in the Art and Times of Hieronymus Bosch (Wednesday 10 December): Dr Sophie Oosterwijk's lecture looks the 'surreal' art of the Early Netherlandish painter Hieronymus Bosch within its historical and cultural context. Although Bosch’s terrifying visions of sin, death, and the hereafter may appear surreal today, especially his highly imaginative depictions of devils, they were tied to the religious attitudes and moralising texts of the period, such as the Ars moriendi, the Dance of Death, and Everyman. It is in this context that one should examine Bosch’s Haywain Triptych, Garden of Earthly Delights, and other works.
Detail of "Death and the Miser," c. 1485/1490, Hieronymus Bosch
9. Find fun family activities in the City
Second Saturday (13 December): Guildhall Art Gallery have organised a fun range of activities to celebrate the festive season as part of their regular Second Saturday events. Families are invited to create their own Victorian Christmas Decoration. There will also be story sessions celebrating creativity, art, artists and the City. Entry is FREE!
Fleet Street Quarter Snoopy Trail: Snoopy is coming to the City! Until Friday 16 January 2026, the world-famous character will take over the streets of the Fleet Street Quarter in the form of twelve unique sculptures, each artist-designed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Charles M. Schulz’s beloved comic strip, Peanuts™. Perfect for families to explore and free to all. Pick up a map from the City Information Centre by St Paul's Cathedral.
Celebrate Saturnalia at the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE (19 December 2025 to 4 January 2026): celebrate the ancient Roman Festival of Saturnalia with drop-in crafts and an exploration of Roman London. One of the most popular holidays of the Roman calendar, the ancient festival honours Saturn, the god of agriculture, and celebrates the promise of a spring harvest. The event is FREE, children of all ages are welcome. Crafts are drop-in, no pre-booking required.
Map of the Snoopy in the City sculpture trail © Fleet Street Quarter BID / Wild in Art / Peanuts Worldwide LLC
10. Head to the Royal Exchange for fabulous drinks and dinners (Mondays to Saturdays)
Venture in the grand backdrop of the historic Royal Exchange this December and celebrate in style with friends, colleagues or loved ones!
Choose the hedonism, style and flamboyance of 1920s Berlin with Engel cocktail bar for the sips and sounds of a bygone era, or enjoy a selection of festive menus, with Korean and Japanese influences, at Jang, where the flavours of Seoul meet the spirit of Kyoto.
Another stylish option: the Fortnum’s Bar & Restaurant, and don't forget there are plenty of opportunities to shop within the Royal Exchange.
Jang at The Royal Exchange.
11. Take a guided walk of the City of London
Take a guided walk of the City and learn about topics covering everything from the Romans, to Charles Dickens to the Great Fire of London. Here are a few to have a look at this month:
A Christmas Carol – Festive Walking Tours around Cheapside (Saturday 6 and Tuesday 9 December): led by expert guide Sarah Williams-Robbins, better known as ‘Mrs Londoner’, you’ll discover the locations and themes behind Dickens’s 1843 classic ‘A Christmas Carol‘, from Cornhill and its echoes of Christmases past to a charming marketplace once filled with Victorian shoppers. Tours are free, happening on Saturday 6 December (10am) and Tuesday 9 December (5.30pm).
Christmas Walking Tours at Leadenhall Market (Wednesdays until 10 December): join the City's Official Guides for this limited-edition evening walk this December. From its Roman roots to the Victorian Christmas festivities as told by Dickens, to the luckiest and pluckiest goose in the City, the City of London Guides will lead you in exploring Christmas past and present in and around this most ancient of London’s markets.
Secrets and Symbols Guided Walk (Wednesdays and Sundays): ever wondered why we say ‘at sixes and sevens? What are those badges on the lamps outside the Royal Exchange? Why are there no roads in the City of London? On this tour discover clues to the City’s past in strange marks and curious symbols along the environs of Cheapside, keeping an eye out for honeybees, demi-maidens and sunbursts. And so much more.
Great Fires of London Guided Walk (takes place on Saturdays): step back in time to uncover the stories of two monumental periods in London's history. The Great Fire of 1666 began in a bakery on Pudding Lane, quickly engulfing the City in flames. Nearly three centuries later, the Blitz of World War II unleashed another wave of destruction from August 1940 to May 1941. Join a City of London Guide to walk the streets where history unfolded and learn how London rose from the ashes - twice.
If you'd rather stay inside, why not choose a tour of the Mansion House (Wednesday 10 December, 12pm), a Grade I listed Georgian mansion in the heart of the City? Mansion House is the residence and office of the Lady Mayor, who serves as powerful ambassador for the City and UK’s financial and professional services. Through international diplomacy, convening high-level discussions, and civic engagement, the Lady Mayor drives economic growth, innovation, and philanthropy on behalf of the City, London, and the UK.
Photo Credit: Niki Gorick Photography
12. Enjoy special discounts on food and drinks at this modern Italian spot (Fridays and Saturdays)
Head to Canto Corvino for an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the City.
Every Friday and Saturday evening, you will get an exclusive 30% discount on all food as well as half-price cocktails during Happy Hour (from 4pm to 9pm).
Time: Happy Hour from 4pm to 9pm, Dinner discount from 6pm to 9.30pm, every Friday and Saturday
© Steven Joyce / Canto Corvino
13. Plan a fun day out with your friends or colleagues
F1 Arcade: F1 Arcade have decked the halls, ready for you to come and join them to celebrate the festive season. With all-new festive cocktails and seasonal sharing plates on the menu, plus live DJs playing all your favourite hits.
Puttshack Bank: at Puttshack they've thrown out the old rules, paper scorecards, and pencils – replacing them with a seamless tech system. Navigate their crazy, tech-infused mini golf courses and get your game face ready for a perfect outing of friendly competition, drinks and dining.
Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival at the Barbican: The Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival returns to the Barbican Hall this festive season, with Christmas movie soundtracks from John Williams and Hans Zimmer, Christmas Carol singalongs, concerts and more.
Puttshack Bank
14. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea
For a festive tea and scones experience with a touch of luxury, the City of London offers an array of exceptional options.
Indulge in afternoon tea at Tower Suites or at The Ned, savour innovative fusion menus at Pan Pacific, or enjoy tea with breath-taking sky-high views at Searcys at The Gherkin. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to be delighted!
Find all our suggested afternoon teas for the festive season.
Afternoon Tea at The Ned.
15. Enjoy smooth vocals and curated cocktails at Rake’s Café Bar (Thursday 18 December)
Come to Rake’s Café Bar for Jazz in the Parlour, on 18 December, for smooth vocals and a contemporary edge from East London artist, Ceryseliza.
Price: free entry. Time: Thursday 18 December from 7 to 8:30pm
© Rake's Café Bar
16. Attend a joyful concert in the beautiful ancient church of St Giles-without-Cripplegate (Friday 19 December)
On Friday 19 December, attend a special concert by the City of London Choir, anticipating the mystery, joy and celebration of Christmas with beloved carols, both new and old, for all the family.
Time: 6:30 to 7:45. Tickets: £30 adult / £12.5o child
© City of London Choir
17. Visit one of these exhibitions and displays before the last-minute rush
Dirty Looks (until 25 January 2026): From ruined romantic evening gowns to faux-stained jeans, mud-splashed dresses and upcycled outfits, the fashion world has never been dirtier. Featuring icons like Hussein Chalayan, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Miguel Adrover and Maison Margiela, alongside emerging designers such as Elena Velez, Yuima Nakazato and IAMISIGO, this exhibition at the Barbican explores fashion's past and present, possible future.
Spotlight on Music Hall at the London Archives (until 5 February 2026): Visit The London Archives to see a small but striking display featuring treasures from around the 1890s-1920s relating to Music Hall.
Exhibition: London in the Second World War (until 19 February 2026): In this free exhibition at The London Archives you can explore stories of Londoners during the Second World War. The London Archives is located in Clerkenwell (between Farringdon and Angel), just outside the boundary of The City of London.
Heritage Gallery Exhibition: Epping Forest (27 September 2025 to 30 April 2026): A new display has opened this month at the Heritage Gallery where a selection of items showcasing the rich history of Epping Forest will be on display. Some of the highlights will include seeing a Forest Keeper’s daily diary from 1903 and a decorative invitation to attend the visit of Queen Victoria in 1882.
Sculpture in the City 14th Edition (until Spring 2026): Artworks by Ai Weiwei, Andrew Sabin, and Jane and Louise Wilson have recently been unveiled in The City of London as part of the 14th edition of Sculpture in the City.
Building the Bank - 100 years on (until Spring 2027): This new exhibition uncovers the fascinating transformation of the Bank of England’s Threadneedle Street home.
Dirty Looks at the Barbican Art Gallery. Credits: Paolo Carzana, Autumn/Winter 2025, Dragons Unwinged at the Butchers Block. Photograph by Joseph Rigby. Courtesy of Paolo Carzana
18. Take a fascinating walk through the heart of literary London at Dr Johnson's House (Wednesday 10 December)
Take a fascinating walk through the historic heart of literary London and visit the home of its most famous resident writer: Dr Samuel Johnson.
The guided walking tour will last about 60 minutes, starting and ending at Dr Johnson's House where you begin your self-guided visit to the House. Please arrive by 12.45 pm for a prompt 1pm tour departure.
Time: 1pm - 3 pm. Tickets: £20
Dr Johnson's House © City of London Corporation
