Create your holiday itinerary in Ruislip! Our guide features all the top festive events and activities. Whether you're a Ruislip local or a globetrotter, this guide unlocks the city's festive potential.
One enchanting highlight of the season is the illuminated Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square, where sparkling lights and traditional decorations create a picturesque atmosphere. Experience the bustling charm of the Covent Garden Christmas Market, known for its artisanal gifts and seasonal treats that bring the community together. And the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering thrilling rides, festive stalls, and seasonal entertainment for all ages. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Ruislip
- Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park (London)
- Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square (London)
- Covent Garden Christmas Market (London)
- Southbank Centre Winter Market (London)
- Christmas By The River at London Bridge (London)
- Ice Skating at Somerset House (London)
- The Nutcracker by English National Ballet (London)
- A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic (London)
- Pantomime at the London Palladium (London)
- Aladdin at the Lyric, Hammersmith (London)
See these and even more events listed below!
Ruislip Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
What to Expect:
A 50-60-year-old Norwegian spruce decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion.
Description:
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a 50-60-year-old Norwegian spruce, over 20 meters tall, selected from Oslo's forests with great care. It is felled in November and brought to London by sea, then erected in the square using a hydraulic crane. Decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion with vertical strings of lights, it symbolizes gratitude for Britain's support during World War II.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
Christmas at Kew Gardens
What to Expect:
Illuminated botanical trail with festive food and drink options.
Description:
Stroll through Kew Gardens after dark, admiring twinkling lights and seasonal sounds amidst lush greenery and festive decorations. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from independent vendors and take in the breathtaking views of the illuminated gardens.
Where: Kew | More Info: Christmas at Kew Gardens
Ruislip Holiday Markets and Shopping
Covent Garden Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Traditional Christmas decorations and unique shopping opportunities.
Description:
Covent Garden Christmas Market features over 40 gigantic bells, 12 giant baubles, and 8 spinning mirror balls, along with a 60-foot Christmas tree and a reconditioned 1884 sleigh for photo opportunities. The market offers a variety of handmade gifts, seasonal food, and mulled wine, set amidst the iconic Market Building and Piazza.
Where: London | More Info: Covent Garden Christmas Market
Southbank Centre Winter Market
What to Expect:
Traditional alpine-style chalets with diverse street food and festive shopping.
Description:
The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers a vibrant atmosphere along the River Thames, featuring traditional alpine-style chalets, indulgent drinks, and scrumptious street food. Enjoy truffle burgers, duck wraps, and Londons hottest hot dogs, along with sweet treats like Dutch pancakes and churros. Browse gifts, jewelry, and decorations made by independent creatives while cradling mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Where: London | More Info: Southbank Centre Winter Market
Seven Dials Christmas
What to Expect:
Unique blend of independent food vendors and festive atmosphere.
Description:
Seven Dials Market transforms into a vibrant holiday hub with festive food, drinks, and unique shopping experiences amidst its bustling atmosphere.
Where: London | More Info: Seven Dials Christmas
Ruislip Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
What to Expect:
Largest open-air ice rink in the UK.
Description:
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a six-week event featuring over 150 attractions, including the UK's largest open-air ice rink, carnival rides, and festive markets. Enjoy live music, circus shows, and themed areas like Santa's Grotto and the Magical Ice Kingdom.
Where: London | More Info: Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
The Nutcracker by English National Ballet
What to Expect:
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Description:
Join Clara on a fantastical adventure through Edwardian London as English National Ballet brings The Nutcracker to life with over 100 dancers and musicians. Choreographed by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith, this new interpretation combines exquisite dancing with spectacular sets and costumes designed by Dick Bird. The iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky is performed live by English National Ballet Philharmonic.
Where: London | More Info: The Nutcracker by English National Ballet
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
What to Expect:
Specially adapted for a relaxed atmosphere with ambient lighting and supportive environment.
Description:
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic is a joyous adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, featuring a unique staging that immerses the audience in London's longest running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.
Where: London | More Info: A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
Pantomime at the London Palladium
What to Expect:
West End spectacle with stunning sets and costumes.
Description:
The London Palladium's pantomime production of Robin Hood features stunning sets and costumes, rip-roaring comedy, and incredible special effects. Starring Jane McDonald as Maid Marion and Julian Clary as Robin Hood, this spectacular show includes a talented cast of favourites and West End stars.
Where: London | More Info: Pantomime at the London Palladium
Aladdin at the Lyric, Hammersmith
What to Expect:
High-flying adventure with live music and jaw-dropping magic.
Description:
Aladdin at the Lyric, Hammersmith is a high-flying adventure featuring Aladdin and Jasmine in a hilarious, high-flying escapade packed with magic, mayhem, and mischief. Meet Aladdin, a local cheeky chancer, and Jasmine, a bold, sharp-witted orphaned princess, as they navigate their way through life with the help of the Genie and amidst the meddling of Widow Twerkey and her evil stepfather Abanazaar.
Where: London | More Info: Aladdin at the Lyric, Hammersmith
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre
What to Expect:
Live orchestra performance with classic song 'Walking in the Air.'
Description:
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre is a stage adaptation of the beloved picture book by Raymond Briggs and film directed by Dianne Jackson. Directed by Bill Alexander, it features music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including the classic song 'Walking in the Air.' The production includes thaw-some design by Ruari Murchison, winter-full lighting by Tim Mitchell, and marvell-ice choreography by Robert North, all accompanied by a live orchestra. The show follows the Boy and his Snowman as they embark on a journey across the world, meeting woodland creatures and international Snowmen along the way.
Where: London | More Info: The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre
Dickensian Christmas Festival in Rochester
What to Expect:
Victorian-themed festivities with guaranteed snowfall.
Description:
The Dickensian Christmas Festival in Rochester is a celebration of Charles Dickens' life and works, featuring street entertainment, readings, and carol singing. The event includes a grand parade of Dickensian characters, a craft fair, and a Christmas market. Visitors can explore the historic town and enjoy Victorian delights.
Where: Rochester | More Info: Dickensian Christmas Festival in Rochester
Ruislip Other Holiday Activities
Christmas By The River at London Bridge
What to Expect:
Holiday festivities along the River Thames.
Description:
Christmas By The River at London Bridge is a vibrant holiday celebration featuring festive activities, riverfront events, and a lively atmosphere.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas By The River at London Bridge
Ice Skating at Somerset House
What to Expect:
Unrivalled skating experience with gourmet dining and live music.
Description:
Ice skating at Somerset House offers an unparalleled winter experience with skating lessons, chilled-out sessions, and trailblazing DJs. Enjoy gourmet dining at The Chalet and festive cheer at the Skate Lounge by Whispering Angel.
Where: London | More Info: Ice Skating at Somerset House
London Transport Museum Christmas Events
What to Expect:
Interactive Christmas sleigh and festive crafts inspired by transport history.
Description:
London Transport Museum transforms into a vibrant winter scene with interactive activities, festive crafts, and immersive digital story trails. Families can meet Santa, enjoy Christmas crafts, and explore the museum's galleries filled with twinkling roundels and vintage posters.
Where: London | More Info: London Transport Museum Christmas Events
Thames River Christmas Cruises
What to Expect:
Scenic river cruise with traditional Christmas lunch.
Description:
Celebrate Christmas with a scenic cruise along the River Thames, taking in London's illuminated landmarks while enjoying a traditional Christmas lunch.
Where: London | More Info: Thames River Christmas Cruises
Christmas Special Bus Tours
What to Expect:
Interactive Paddington-guided animation of London's landmarks.
Description:
Embark on a Paddington-themed afternoon tea bus tour through Central London, featuring iconic landmarks and a delightful menu.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas Special Bus Tours
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Northolt (3 miles)
- Uxbridge (3 miles)
- Harrow (4 miles)
- Hayes (4 miles)
- Greenford (4 miles)
- Southall (5 miles)
- Brent (5 miles)
- Wembley (6 miles)
- Gerrards Cross (6 miles)
- Watford (6 miles)
- Chalfont Saint Peter (6 miles)
- Heston (7 miles)
- Isleworth (8 miles)
- Acton (8 miles)
- Hounslow (8 miles)
- Borehamwood (8 miles)
- Slough (9 miles)
- Willesden (9 miles)
- Feltham (9 miles)
- Cricklewood (9 miles)
- Chiswick (9 miles)
- Richmond (9 miles)
- Windsor (10 miles)
- Hanworth (10 miles)
- Shepherds Bush (10 miles)
- Ashford (10 miles)
- Finchley (10 miles)
- Kilburn (10 miles)
- Barnes (10 miles)
- Staines (10 miles)
- Amersham (10 miles)
- Barnet (11 miles)
- Egham (11 miles)
- Chesham (12 miles)
- Fulham (12 miles)
- Sunbury-on-Thames (12 miles)
- Putney (12 miles)
- Chalk Farm (12 miles)
- Muswell Hill (12 miles)
- Camden Town (12 miles)
- Chelsea (12 miles)
- Archway (12 miles)
- Hemel Hempstead (13 miles)
- Hadley Wood (13 miles)
- St Albans (13 miles)
- Holloway (13 miles)
- Walton-on-Thames (13 miles)
- Maidenhead (13 miles)
- Wood Green (13 miles)
- Battersea (13 miles)
- Potters Bar (13 miles)
- City of Westminster (13 miles)
- London (14 miles)
- Surbiton (14 miles)
- New Malden (14 miles)
- Wimbledon (14 miles)
- Highbury (14 miles)
- Islington (14 miles)
- Berkhamsted (14 miles)
- Esher (14 miles)
- High Wycombe (15 miles)
- Stamford Hill (15 miles)
- Tottenham (15 miles)
- Enfield Town (15 miles)
- Morden (16 miles)
- Brixton (16 miles)
- Hatfield (16 miles)
- Streatham (16 miles)
- Mitcham (16 miles)
- Edmonton (16 miles)
- Peckham (17 miles)
- Harpenden (17 miles)
- Ewell (17 miles)
- Walthamstow (17 miles)
- Bow (18 miles)
- Bracknell (18 miles)
- Canary Wharf (18 miles)
- Carshalton (18 miles)
- Epsom (18 miles)
- Sutton (18 miles)
- Welwyn Garden City (18 miles)
- Stratford (18 miles)
- Leytonstone (19 miles)
- Woking (19 miles)
- Wallington (19 miles)
- Chingford (19 miles)
- Cheshunt (19 miles)
- Croydon (19 miles)
- Woodford Green (19 miles)
- Catford (19 miles)
- Canning Town (19 miles)
- Leatherhead (20 miles)
- Banstead (20 miles)
- Blackheath (20 miles)
- South Croydon (20 miles)
- Beckenham (21 miles)
- Wokingham (21 miles)
- Purley (21 miles)
- Luton (21 miles)
- Crowthorne (21 miles)
- Hertford (21 miles)
- Coulsdon (21 miles)
- Ilford (21 miles)
- Camberley (21 miles)
- Hoddesdon (22 miles)
- Barking (22 miles)
- Dunstable (22 miles)
- Sandhurst (22 miles)
- Eltham (22 miles)
- Lower Earley (24 miles)
- Yateley (24 miles)
- Aylesbury (24 miles)
- Becontree (24 miles)
- Thamesmead (24 miles)
- Farnborough (24 miles)
- Welling (24 miles)
- Guildford (24 miles)
- Stevenage (25 miles)
- Reading (25 miles)
- Caterham (25 miles)
- Reigate (25 miles)
- Dagenham (25 miles)
- Redhill (25 miles)
- Leighton Buzzard (26 miles)
- Romford (26 miles)
- Bexley (26 miles)
- Hitchin (27 miles)
- Fleet (27 miles)
- Aldershot (27 miles)
- Harlow (27 miles)
- Hornchurch (28 miles)
- Godalming (28 miles)
- Swanley (28 miles)
- Dartford (29 miles)
- Letchworth Garden City (29 miles)
- Farnham (30 miles)
- Horley (30 miles)
- Brentwood (31 miles)
- Ampthill (31 miles)
- Bletchley (32 miles)
- Bishops Stortford (32 miles)
- Grays (33 miles)
- Crawley (33 miles)
- Sevenoaks (34 miles)
- Didcot (35 miles)
- Milton Keynes (35 miles)
- Gravesend (35 miles)
- Horsham (36 miles)
- Basingstoke (36 miles)
- East Grinstead (36 miles)
- Billericay (36 miles)
- Bordon (37 miles)
- Stanford-le-Hope (37 miles)
- Abingdon (37 miles)
- Oxford (38 miles)
- Basildon (38 miles)
- Thatcham (38 miles)
- Bicester (39 miles)
- Bedford (39 miles)
- Tonbridge (40 miles)
- Chelmsford (40 miles)
- Pitsea (40 miles)
- Newbury (41 miles)
- Strood (41 miles)
- Wickford (41 miles)
- Rochester (42 miles)
- Haywards Heath (42 miles)
- South Benfleet (42 miles)
- Royal Tunbridge Wells (42 miles)
- Chatham (43 miles)
- Canvey Island (43 miles)
- Crowborough (44 miles)
- Gillingham (44 miles)
- Rayleigh (44 miles)
- Burgess Hill (44 miles)
- Saint Neots (45 miles)