Looking for Something to Do in London? Here’s Your Holiday Bucket List
Staying in London this Winter Break? Lace up those boots, slip into a cozy jacket, and step out the door! The holidays are coming, and London has no shortage of fun to offer.
Whether you’re a local, an international student, or just choosing to relax in London for a few weeks, the USC wants to give you the most out of your sweet time away from assignments and exams.
With finals season in full swing, we know it can be hard to find time to plan a night out. Luckily, the USC’s got that part covered.
We’ve teamed up with Tourism London to showcase some super fun and affordable activities you can do around the city!
Here’s our proposal: make these three perfect stops—Spageddy Eddy’s, Candy Cane Lane, and the Holly Jolly Christmas Market—for a magical night out. All the stops are close together and perfectly complement each other, offering you a seamless journey to enjoy the best of London’s festive offerings!
With our selection of holiday activities, your only job is to make some lasting memories beyond Western’s gates! No matter where in the world you’re from, we hope you can one day call London “home,” too.
A Festive Journey Through London
First Stop: Spageddy Eddy’s & Mistletoe Lane
When Londoners need an emergency helping of pasta, Spageddy Eddy’s never fails.
The Italian restaurant—with over 25 years of history serving downtown London—is not only a bucket list item for any foodie; it’s also home to London’s most charming photo-op spot.
Right outside Spageddy Eddy’s doors, Mistletoe Lane is a festive graffiti alley decorated yearly with an overhaul of string lights and mistletoes.
After sharing a hearty dinner with your friends and loved ones, head over for a holiday photoshoot! Someday, you’ll look back on those photos and be reminded of that magnificent plate of pasta.
Next Up: Candy Cane Lane
Only a 3 minute walk from Spageddy Eddy’s, Candy Cane Lane awaits. Known as Market Lane for most of the year, this street is London’s hub for festivals, outdoor murals, live music, and pop-up shops.
During the holiday months, Candy Cane Lane transforms into a winter wonderland with a festive light display, perfect for capturing stunning photos and selfies. With dazzling night-time lights and live music performed in storefront windows and sidewalks throughout December, Candy Cane Lane is the main course to your Mistletoe Lane appetizer.
Last Stop: Holly Jolly Holiday Market
If your hometown doesn’t get this frosty, winter in London can be quite a cold and wet adjustment. Luckily, our programme for tonight includes some time to warm up indoors.
At the end of Candy Cane Lane, you’ll find the doors to the popular Holly Jolly Holiday Market, running until December 22. With vendors selling anything from 3D-printed figurines to hot chocolate and homemade pastries, you’ll be supporting local business owners while thawing out your fingers and toes.
Once you’re warmed up, you can even head back outside for a free 10-15 minute horse-and-carriage ride! You’ll get dropped off near Santa’s House, where you and your group can take yet another Instagrammable photo, this time with Mr. Claus himself.
More Winter Break Must-Dos
Don’t hang up your scarf just yet! London has so much more to offer.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, sweet treats, or festive events, there’s something to fill every frosty day with joy and warmth.
Outdoor Skating at Storybook Gardens
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, head to Storybook Gardens in Springbank Park.
This spot boasts a 250-meter skating trail decked out in festive lights and decor, perfect for a dreamy evening on the ice. Rent skates onsite and refuel afterward with a hot chocolate and a Beavertail pastry from the rink-side concession stand. It’s a quintessential winter experience that will have you gliding into holiday bliss!
Downtown London’s Holiday Trails
Exploring London gets even sweeter with downtown holiday trails! Grab a free digital pass and collect points as you visit featured locations, like a fun passport for your winter adventures.
Trails like the Scratch Bakery and Patisserie trail offer a delicious lineup of artisanal goodies, from flaky pastries to melt-in-your-mouth donuts. It’s a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth and revel in the holiday spirit!
New Year’s Eve in the Park
As the holiday season winds down, there’s one last celebration to look forward to—New Year’s Eve! Wrap up the seasons with New Year’s Eve in the Park on December 31 in Victoria Park.
From 7 p.m. until after midnight, Victoria Park will come alive with fireworks, free outdoor skating, live music, and entertainment. You can also enjoy the dazzling holiday lights in the park as we ring in the New Year with a bang!
