Expert: David Stewart White - 11/9/2006

Question
I have recently come to London with an employment. My wife and my 13 year old son will visit me on 24th and 25th December 2006. Could you please suggest me the events one must attend and places one must visit during these two days considering the fact that on 25th December some of the places might be closed and during that period in London day time is very short.

Answer
Hello,

Visiting London on December 24-26 does pose some challenges.  The most important perhaps is that public transportation virtually shuts down on December 25:  the Tube/Underground (subway), most rail service and bus service do not operate.  There are limited taxis available.  

Many historic sights are closed on December 24 and 25. For example, the Tower of London, Globe Theatre, Museum of London, and British Museum are all closed.  I would suggest that you consider attending special holiday events that are held in London's historic churches and or cathedrals. Regardless of your religious perspective, the events do allow you access to the buildings at this time.  Westminster Abbey and St. Paul's Cathedral both have worship services on Dec 24 and 25.

On December 25, there are almost no options for visiting historic sights, museums, etc.  You could do a walking tour of the center of London, assuming the weather cooperates and you have transportation. One advantage:  there won't be huge crowds in central London most of this time.  

Your family may also enjoy seeing the elaborate holiday light displays in the shopping areas of central London (Oxford street, Regents street, Covent Garden, etc.).  

There are also some West End theatre shows on these dates.  For individual listings, check:

www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk

I hope this is helpful.

David White

www.KidsToLondon.com