Greenwich offers a Christmas day out that combines stand-out festive events with historic attractions, beautiful riverside scenery, museums, shopping and unique places to eat.
Visit, and you can explore Maritime Greenwich, see attractions such as the Queen's House and Cutty Sark, browse Greenwich Market, and plan around festive activities taking place across the Royal Borough.
Whether you're looking for a family day out without the central London crowds, a winter experience with friends, a festive date or a day of sightseeing, Greenwich offers several ways to build a really memorable Christmas treat around your interests.
Below, discover some of the unmissable experiences taking place – and sign up to our newsletter to find out when more events are revealed.
Festive events in Greenwich
Santa's Grotto at the Queen's House
Make the festive season even more special with a visit to Santa’s Grotto at the Queen's House. Take a trip into this former royal residence and travel into the icy land of the Snow Queen, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's enchanting fairy tale.
- Best for: kids aged 9 and under
- Key dates: 14 Nov-24 Dec 2026
- Where: Queen's House
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The Queen's House Ice Rink
London's most beautiful open-air ice rink in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maritime Greenwich is the perfect place for an unforgettable day out. Get ready to glide around the ice.
- Best for: everyone aged 3 and up
- Key dates: 18 Nov-3 Jan 2027
- Where: Queen's House
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Lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on in Greenwich
Start your festive season in style at Greenwich's annual Christmas lights switch-on. Taking place on Wednesday 18 November, this fun-filled event includes a light procession through the heart of Maritime Greenwich.
The event culminates with the Christmas lights switch-on in Greenwich Market. The space will be transformed into a twinkling paradise, complete with music and seasonal food. Don't miss Cutty Sark's festive lights, which see the ship's mast transformed into a Christmas tree.
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Guess who? Queen's House festive trail
Put your knowledge of the Queen’s House artworks to the test on this self-guided trail. Find clues located on Christmas stockings throughout the House, and see if you can work out who the mystery character is.
- Best for: families, adults
- Key dates: 14 Nov-24 Dec 2026
- Where: Queen's House
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Christmas events at Cutty Sark
Make your festive season merry and bright with a trip to the famous tea clipper.
During your visit, you might discover tales of Christmas at sea and enjoy festive-themed shipkeeping talks and demonstrations.
The ship provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter adventure, decked out with twinkling lights.
Museum gifts and experiences
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