Christmas brings out the best in London Bridge. It gives us the chance to revel in the attractions, businesses, history, architecture and community that make this bustling neighbourhood so special. Check out our guide to soaking up the festive spirit
Winter by the River
Our festive calendar is dominated by the Winter by the River festival. Running 14 November to 1 January, you’ll find vibrant market stalls, tasty treats and pop-up bars at London Bridge City, offering views of the London skyline as you toast the season to the sound of a choir (or your friends belting out Last Christmas in the themed karaoke room!).
Shard Lights
From the river to the sky. Your eyes will be drawn to the heavens from 28th November when the Shard’s Festive Lights display will run daily 5.30pm to 1.00am every evening until New Year’s Eve. 20 floors of London’s tallest building will be illuminated with three festive mosaic designs, including a snowman, festive candle and traditional Scottish pattern, developed in partnership with the London School of Mosaic.
London Bridge Christmas Parade
If you want maximum Christmas glad tidings delivered in just one heart-warming hour, you need to see the London Bridge Christmas Lantern Parade, 4-5pm 7th December. Choirs from local primary schools will lead us singing a selection of traditional favourites in Potters Fields Park beside Tower Bridge before taking the merry crowd along the river.
Unicorn Theatre
Families with younger children can rely on the Unicorn Theatre delivering festive laughs with two shows to choose from; The Bolds (for ages 6+) and The Wolf, The Duck and The Mouse (for 3-7 years). Both until 31 December – book tickets now before they sell out.
Attractions and Shopping
Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, the London Bridge Experience, Old Operating Theatre Museum and The View from The Shard will all be providing a range of activities and celebrations, while gift shopping is within easy reach at the boutiques around London Bridge Station and Bermondsey Street. Try Flea Market at Vinegar Yard who host a special Christmas Market 2 & 3 December, or the Winter Solstice celebration at London Glassblowing for a truly unique present. You’ll find a Christmas pop-up shop next to the Christmas tree in the South Tower of Tower Bridge, as well as the full choice of gifts in the Engine Rooms beside Potters Fields Park. Know an Elvis fan? Then make their Christmas with a Gift Card for the Direct from Graceland: Elvis exhibition at Arches London Bridge.
Christmas Carols
Everyone is made welcome at this candlelit service of popular Christmas Carols, Thurs 14th December 5.30pm, in the Chapel of Thomas Guy, featuring the Guy’s Chapel Choir. King’s students and members of the community join in with some much needed festive fun. No tickets required, just turn up on the night. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served afterwards!
Food & Drink
Feeling peckish after a busy day? Choose from local bistros, riverside dining, hearty pub food and the best international cuisine before hoping on an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service to take you home under the ever-evolving Illuminated River artworks.
Follow @atlondonbridge (X and Instagram) for Christmas menus, What’s On listings and more ideas in London Bridge this Christmas.
