London shines brightest during the festive season, when the city transforms into a musical tapestry of choirs, candlelit concerts, classical performances, and joyful carolling. Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas service, a grand orchestral evening, or festive street performances, there’s so many to choose from when it comes to London’s Christmas concerts. Read on to find out more about the most atmospheric places to enjoy carols and music across the capital.
The Most Iconic Venues for London’s Christmas concerts
- Royal Albert Hall: A highlight of London’s festive calendar, Royal Albert Hall presents a rich line-up of Christmas concerts, including carols by candlelight, classical performances and film concerts with live orchestras. A delightfully grand Victorian concert hall, the setting makes every song feel spectacular.
- Westminster Abbey: Steeped in over a thousand years of history, Westminster Abbey hosts some of the city’s most moving Christmas carol services. Expect angelic choirs, soaring harmonies, and a deeply atmospheric setting.
- St Martin-in-the-Fields: Located in Trafalgar Square and often overlooked, St Martin-in-the-Fields offers a beloved series of , classical recitals, and family-friendly performances. It’s an intimate, elegant choice for a traditional Christmas night out.
Carolling in the streets & Christmas Markets
London’s musical festive charm isn’t kept solely indoors – you can find live carolling and street performances throughout the city in December at many Christmas Markets and elsewhere.
- Covent Garden: One of London’s most magical winter spots. Choirs gather beneath the giant Christmas tree, buskers perform festive favourites, and the entire area sparkles with decorations.
- Southbank Winter Festival (Southbank Centre): Expect roving musicians, choir pop-ups, and outdoor stages creating a warm, Christmas-market atmosphere along the Thames.
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland: Beyond rides and market stalls, Winter Wonderland hosts live music tents, acoustic artists, and lively sing-along spots, perfect for soaking in festive cheer.
Christmas Shows, Musicals & Pantomimes in the West End
London’s theatre scene embraces Christmas wholeheartedly. Many shows feature festive music, magical staging, and family-friendly storytelling.
- Pantomime (Panto) Season: A uniquely British Christmas tradition! Expect music, slapstick comedy, and audience participation. Famous venues include The London Palladium, Hackney Empire and Richmond Theatre – to name a few!
- Seasonal Musical Productions: Many West End shows release special holiday performances or offer Christmas-themed productions through December, including The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol and The Snowman.
Classical London Christmas concerts & Choir Performances
For lovers of tradition, London offers some of the best choral and classical concerts in the world.
- Handel’s Messiah: A true December staple, performed at churches and concert halls, including Cadogan Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral and St Mary-le-Strand.
- Candlelit Choir Concerts: Beloved for their serene atmosphere, check listings at Holy Trinity Sloane Square, St James’s Piccadilly, Union Chapel, St George’s Cathedral or St Paul’s Knightsbridge. Be quick, they sell out fast!
Festive Music for the Whole Family
For those travelling with children, London hosts a plethora of family-friendly musical options.
Many museums, including London Transport Museum and Museum of London Docklands, host kid-friendly carolling. You’ll also discover concerts at the Royal Festival Hall that are interactive as a way to introduce little ones to festive classics in a fun way.
Make it a Fully Festive Evening Out
With so much to see and do, there’s plenty of ways to combine a musical experience with other holiday treats in the city.
- Stroll through the Christmas Lights of Regent Street and Oxford Street (or see them up-close and with a full afternoon tea on our Christmas Lights Afternoon Tea Bus Tour!)
- Visit a Christmas market to pick up some mulled wine, treats or gifts
London’s Christmas concert and music scene is one of the most magical parts of December in the UK. From grand orchestras and sacred choral services to lively outdoor carolling, the city offers endless ways to fill your trip with Christmas spirit. Whether you’re visiting for a short weekend or spending the holiday season in the capital, make time for a festive musical moment – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
