When asked about traveling to London, many people would likely avoid saying January as their preferred time to visit. For those of us residing in the Northern Hemisphere, the mere mention of “January” can send shivers down the spine. It’s a month characterized by short days, chilly weather, and the chance of snow. The festive holiday season has passed, and spring still feels far away. While I won’t claim that January is the worst month, I certainly understand if you feel that way!
So, is visiting London in January a bad idea? Not at all! In fact, this less popular travel period offers great deals on flights and accommodations. Plus, there are numerous exciting activities to enjoy in London during this time, along with plenty of opportunities to keep warm while exploring the city’s iconic attractions and landmarks.
No matter what inspires your January visit to London, this guide will ensure you make the most of your trip. Below, you’ll find a list of the top events in London for January 2025, along with other seasonal experiences to enjoy during this time. So, bundle up, grab your passport, and get ready to explore all that London has to offer in January.
Want tips on the weather and what to pack for your January trip to London? Click here!
8 Great Events in London in January 2025
No matter the weather—be it rain or snow—London has a wealth of interesting events to partake in. Here are eight fantastic happenings you can enjoy in January.
London New Year’s Day Parade (January 1)
Photos courtesy of LNYDP
Following the dazzling midnight fireworks over the Thames, the London New Year’s Day Parade takes to the streets of the West End to usher in 2025. Originating in 1987, this parade has garnered a dedicated following, attracting between half a million and a million spectators each year. The parade kicks off at Piccadilly (just outside The Ritz) at noon.
Each year brings a unique lineup of participants, featuring elements such as All the Queen’s Horses, a troop of riders recreating a historic pageant, a traditional dragon dance by London’s Chinese Community, and large inflatable balloons in various shapes and sizes.
Serpentine New Year’s Day 10k Race (January 1)
Have you made a New Year’s resolution to focus on health but worried that your holiday indulgences in London might derail your plans? Why not register for the Serpentine New Year’s Day 10k and 3k Race in Hyde Park to kick off the year in an active manner and burn off some of those well-deserved festive calories!
The “NYD10k” begins at 11am in Hyde Park and takes place on traffic-free paths throughout the park, primarily in Kensington Gardens. This scenic route boasts views of landmarks like Kensington Palace, the Italian Gardens, and the Henry Moore statue, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Hyde Park.
If running a long distance sounds daunting, there’s also a fun 3k (1.86mi) option, perfect for those wanting to kick off the New Year on a healthy note without overexerting themselves.
Hogwarts in the Snow (16 Nov – Jan 19)
Photo credits: big-ashb via Flickr
A visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour is a delightful experience any time of year, but it becomes especially enchanting in winter when each movie set receives a festive transformation.
During Hogwarts in the Snow, the staff decorates the studio with a wintry and Christmas theme. You’ll witness the Gryffindor common room adorned with Christmas garlands and fairy lights, while the Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley are blanketed in snow, along with festive scenes such as the Yule Ball!
London Art Fair (January 22-26)
Photos courtesy of the London Art Fair via Instagram
Now entering its 36th edition, the London Art Fair is a premier destination for discovering and purchasing exceptional Modern and Contemporary Art. You can explore a stunning array of artworks, jewelry, and handicrafts. While the majority of their galleries focus on British artists, international exhibitors now make up 25% of the collections. The fair also features a series of curated talks, panel discussions, and insights from artists.
Burns Night (January 25)
Burns Night is the event you won’t want to miss if you’re in London in January! (It’s even better in Scotland if that’s a possibility on your itinerary.)
Every year on January 25, locals celebrate Scotland’s revered national poet, Robert Burns. This festive occasion is a charming way to engage with Scottish culture, especially if you are unable to visit Scotland during your trip. Various events will be taking place across London in honor of Burns Night.
People typically flock to pubs and restaurants to indulge in traditional Scottish dishes and sample whisky. For those interested in cultural experiences, events featuring poetry readings, bagpipe music, and ceilidh dancing are also popular.
Ice Rink Canary Wharf (All Month)
Photo credit (R): Matt Buck via Flickr
Each year, Canary Wharf unveils a magnificent ice rink in Canada Square Park. This season lasts for 18 weeks, making it the longest ice rink duration in London. The venue boasts a wonderful atmosphere, with knowledgeable staff and a striking roof adorned with over 1,000 sparkling fairy lights. Rain or shine, you can enjoy skating here.
However, be prepared—Ice Rink Canary Wharf is incredibly popular and tends to get crowded, leaving little room for speedy skaters.
London Short Film Festival (TBC)
If you’re a film enthusiast or simply enjoy watching movies, be sure to grab tickets for the London Short Film Festival. As the name suggests, this festival highlights short films, presenting works from over 500 British and international filmmakers.
This ten-day festival has garnered acclaim for its diverse collection of filmmakers and eclectic movie selections. Films are screened in beautiful venues, including some iconic locations like the Rich Mix and ICA in Piccadilly.
While the festival is currently accepting submissions, you can rest assured it will be held in 2025—exact dates are yet to be announced.
No Trousers Tube Ride (TBD)
If you’re in the mood for something a bit cheeky—or simply want to experience something unique—don’t miss London’s No Trousers Tube Ride in January!
This quirky tradition began with Improv Everywhere, a New York-based group that organized the first ‘No Pants Subway Ride’ in 2002. The event has since spread to other cities, including London.
The concept is simple: travel through London’s Tube system in your underwear as if nothing is amiss. So, pack your most stylish pair of undergarments, shed your inhibitions, and join hundreds of other trouser-less riders for a lighthearted journey underground.
8 Other Fun Things to Do in London in January
If you have extra time on your hands, here are several other enjoyable activities to consider in London throughout January, not tied to specific dates:
- Catch one last Christmas or pantomime show before they wrap up in the first week of January.
- Visit a London art gallery or museum. The Tate Britain is showcasing the works of British artist Lynette Yiadom-Boakye until February 26.
- Warm up with a delightful afternoon tea at one of London’s elegant hotels.
- Take a brisk winter walk along the Southbank.
- Enjoy a pint by the fire in a traditional British pub. The Grapes in Limehouse and The Antelope in Sloane Square/Belgravia offer cozy atmospheres with crackling fireplaces. Grab a pint, settle into a chair by the hearth, and warm up!
- Explore a covered market and indulge in street food; Borough Market is fantastic, but Spitalfields is also great for a snack.
- Prepare for irresistible shopping during London’s January sales, which typically begin on Boxing Day (December 26) and continue into mid-January. Visit popular shopping destinations like Covent Garden or the West End, or splurge in iconic department stores such as Harrods or Fortnum & Mason.
- Experience London from above at one of the city’s rooftops; if it’s chilly out, SkyGarden is an excellent fully covered option.
If you have any questions about planning your January 2025 trip to London or looking for suggestions on what to do, feel free to ask in the comments below!
