Is Anything Open on Christmas Day in London? Your 2025 Guide to What’s Actually Running

Is Anything Open on Christmas Day in London? Your 2025 Guide to What’s Actually Running

Christmas Day in London has a magical stillness you only experience once a year. The streets are quieter, the buses stop humming, and the city feels like it’s wrapped in a soft festive blanket. But here’s the good news: London does NOT shut down completely on 25 December.
If you’re travelling, sightseeing, flying, or simply exploring—there are still plenty of places open and options available.

Whether you're landing at Heathrow with no idea where to go, navigating the city for a festive meal, or planning ahead so your day runs smoothly, this guide gives you the most useful, positive, and up-to-date overview of what stays open in London on Christmas Day.

Yes — London DOES Have Things Open on Christmas Day

The majority of shops and transport services pause on 25 December, but the city doesn’t grind to a halt. You’ll find hotels, airports, attractions, restaurants, scenic walks, and essential services available throughout the day.

Below is a clear breakdown of what remains open and how you can plan your experience with confidence.

1. London Airports Stay Fully Operational

If you’re flying in or out of the city, here’s the essential truth:

Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, and London City Airport all remain open on Christmas Day.

Flights operate on reduced schedules, but airports run 24/7.

And yes—because we are comparetheairportparking.com—here’s what travellers really need to know:

Pre-booked airport parking DOES operate on Christmas Day.
Meet-and-greet teams, off-site car parks, and long-stay services function normally (staffed by reduced but fully scheduled Christmas shifts).

Booking early is smart because demand is high despite fewer flights.

2. Hotels and Many Hotel Restaurants Are Open

Hotel restaurants become the beating heart of Christmas Day dining in London.

Most large hotels—particularly around:

• Mayfair

• Westminster

• Kensington

• Canary Wharf

• Heathrow and Gatwick

offer Christmas Day lunch menus, festive afternoon teas, and fully operational bars and lounges.

They are often fully booked weeks in advance, so reservations matter.

3. Some Iconic London Attractions Open for Christmas Day Visitors

Although many major museums and galleries close, a surprising number of outdoor and landmark attractions welcome visitors:

• Tower Bridge viewpoints (outside)

• London’s royal parks

• South Bank

• Covent Garden’s outdoor areas

• Trafalgar Square and the Christmas tree

• Westminster, Big Ben, and River Thames paths

And the best part?

You will experience London with almost no crowds—a rare opportunity for peaceful photography and calm exploration.

4. Some Pubs & Restaurants Are Open (Especially for Christmas Lunch)

While high-street chains remain closed, London’s Christmas Day dining scene thrives mainly through:

• Traditional British pubs

• Hotel dining rooms

• Boutique restaurants offering prix-fixe Christmas menus

• Independent eateries in tourist hubs

Expect festive roasts, mulled wine, champagne menus, and warm hospitality.

Prices are higher than usual, but the atmosphere is exceptional.

5. Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps Do Operate

There is no London Underground, Overground, DLR, or normal train service on 25 December.

But transportation isn’t completely shut:

• Black cabs operate (with holiday fare surcharges).

• Uber, Bolt, FreeNow, and private hire minicabs are available.

• Airport transfers run throughout the day.

If you’re travelling to an airport on Christmas Day, booking in advance is strongly recommended.

6. Convenience Stores & Essential Services

You’ll find limited but reliable options:

• Many 24-hour convenience stores stay open.

• Certain petrol stations around London operate normally.

• Pharmacies near major transport hubs may run reduced hours.

Local corner shops are your best bet, especially in central boroughs.

7. Christmas Day Walks & Outdoor Experiences

One of the most charming ways to spend Christmas in London is outdoors. And the city’s green spaces are fully open:

• Hyde Park

• Regent’s Park

• Greenwich Park

• Battersea Park

• Richmond Park

Walking through these locations on 25 December offers a peaceful, almost cinematic experience.

8. River Thames Views & Photo Spots

The Thames Path, Millennium Bridge, Tower Bridge area, and Embankment remain open for visitors. If you want the quietest photos you'll ever take in central London, Christmas Day is perfect.

9. Cinema? Sometimes Yes. Depends on the Area.

A handful of independent cinemas open on Christmas Day each year, with limited screenings. These include venues in Leicester Square and select Everyman cinemas. Schedules vary, so checking ahead is essential.

 Final Thoughts: Christmas Day in London Is Calm, Magical, and Still Very Much Open

If you're asking “Is anything open on Christmas Day in London?”, the answer is a confident, positive yes.

You won’t find the usual bustling vibes, but you will find:

• Open airports

• Functional taxis and private hire

• Welcoming restaurants and hotel lounges

• Scenic attractions

• Peaceful Christmas walks

• Essential shops

• A uniquely quiet, beautiful version of London

For travellers especially—planning ahead ensures your day runs smoothly.

And if you're flying, remember:
airport parking operates normally on Christmas Day, but availability is limited—pre-booking is the smartest choice.