15 Fun Things to Do in London in January
January in London is not exactly the sleepy season you might expect. The city doubles down on winter charm, pulling out all the stops with glowing pubs and top-tier theater.
Start your year off right with these top things to do in London in January that make winter feel like the best season of all.
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1. Watch A West End Theatre Show
January’s a sweet spot for catching a show; London theater stays alive all year, and the winter crowds are a bit thinner. Musicals and plays light up dozens of stages, so you’re spoiled for choice.
From long-standing legends like The Lion King or The Phantom of the Opera to buzzy new productions, the West End’s got range.
Most of the big theaters cluster around Covent Garden and Leicester Square, which means you can squeeze in a pre-show bite without rushing.
2. Go Ice Skating At Somerset House
Somerset House puts on one of London’s prettiest ice rinks right in its heart, and skating usually runs from November through January.
The historic courtyard turns into your skating arena, framed by 18th-century architecture.
Ice skating at Somerset House offers beginner lessons if your skills are a bit rusty. The rink keeps things lively with contemporary music and plenty of food to fuel up between sessions.
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3. Explore Hogwarts In The Snow
January lands you right in the middle of the Hogwarts in the Snow event, usually running from mid-November through mid-January. The Great Hall glows with Christmas trimmings, and the sets get a dusting of movie magic snow.
Wander through Diagon Alley under a layer of frost and stare up at the Hogwarts castle model, transformed for winter.
The event’s a huge draw, so tickets are a hot commodity—booking well ahead is non-negotiable.
4. Attend Burns Night Celebrations
London goes full Scottish on January 25th for Burns Night, honoring poet Robert Burns with bagpipes, haggis, and of course, plenty of whisky.
Restaurants across the city pull out all the stops with traditional Scottish fare and live entertainment.
Authentic ceilidh dancing brings everyone together, whether you know the steps or not. Many spots serve the classic Burns Supper combo of haggis, neeps, and tatties for the full experience.
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5. Visit The Royal Opera House
January is prime time for better ticket availability at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. World-class opera and ballet in a stunning venue? Yes, please.
Those on a budget can swing by on Fridays for free lunchtime performances in Paul Hamlyn Hall on select dates.
Guided tours are available too, offering a peek behind the curtain when shows aren’t running.
6. Take A Stroll Along South Bank
The Thames waterfront delivers knockout views of London’s skyline, especially in January. Walking along South Bank means front-row seats to the city’s best landmarks.
Cafes and restaurants line the path, offering plenty of spots to thaw out. The riverside stretch between Lambeth Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge stays lively with street performers and food stalls, even in winter.
Winter light over the river makes for some of the best photos you’ll get of Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
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7. Club Curling At Coal Drops Yard
Winter sports with a London twist; that’s the vibe at this pop-up in King’s Cross. Club Curling returns to Coal Drops Yard with six colorful synthetic lanes for you and your friends to get a little competitive.
Each session gives you 50 minutes of curling action for teams of up to six. Kids under 12 can play for free when adults join in.
After the game, cocktails await at the cozy vintage Italian-themed lounge. Tickets start at £9 per person during off-peak times—pretty tempting for a group outing.
8. Browse Art Galleries Like Tate Modern
When it’s cold outside, London’s galleries are a solid escape. Tate Modern offers free admission and showcases everything from Picasso to Banksy.
The city’s art scene goes way beyond the big names, like classic portraits at the National Portrait Gallery or edgy installations in smaller spaces.
London’s art scene spans from major exhibitions to hidden creative gems across the capital. Gallery hopping is a cozy way to stay warm and get inspired in January.
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9. Experience The New Year’s Day Parade
The London New Year’s Day Parade kicks off every January 1st, even while most of the city is still sleeping off the night before. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, and performers from all over the world.
It’s a fantastic centerpiece for your January 1st if you’re up for it. The parade route winds through central London, so you get those iconic landmark backdrops for your photos.
10. Warm Up In A Cozy Historic London Pub
When January bites, London’s historic pubs hit different. Centuries-old watering holes with crackling fireplaces and low timber ceilings invite you to thaw out and linger awhile.
The George Inn in Southwark brings those Tudor vibes, complete with a galleried courtyard and a hearth that’s seen more winters than you ever will. A pint here, surrounded by all that history, somehow tastes richer.
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11. Visit The Victoria And Albert Museum
Cool weather is the perfect excuse to wander through the V&A Museum, and it won’t cost you a thing to enter.
Lose yourself among galleries packed with gorgeous objects from 5,000 years of history. Ancient sculptures, contemporary fashion, intricate jewelry; there’s plenty to stumble upon if you’re curious.
The Raphael Cartoons and the jewelry collection are worth seeking out. Plan around 2.5 hours if you want to see the highlights and still have time for a coffee break.
12. Take A Guided Jack The Ripper Walking Tour
London’s darker side comes alive on a Jack the Ripper walking tour through East London’s atmospheric streets.
Guides (many of whom have written books on the subject) lead you to the exact locations where the infamous killer struck in 1888. Tours usually last around 90 minutes and cover Whitechapel’s notorious crime scenes.
Along the way, you’ll hear about the victims, suspects, and wildest theories. Tours end near Liverpool Street Station, making it easy to find your way back afterwards.
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13. Explore Borough Market For Winter Treats
Borough Market turns into a cozy food haven when January’s chill sets in. The covered stalls keep you out of the wind while you browse for seasonal goodies.
Hot mulled wine and steaming coffee are practically essential. Comfort foods like fresh soups, artisan breads, and hearty pies are everywhere; perfect for winter snacking.
Seasonal specialties like winter vegetables, citrus fruits, and warming spices pop up all over. Local vendors often hand out tastings, so don’t be shy about trying something new.
14. See Exhibitions At The British Museum
January brings fresh exhibitions to the world’s first free national museum. Ancient artifacts and contemporary displays are yours to explore—no ticket needed.
The museum’s winter programming features rotating galleries, from Egyptian mummies to Greek sculptures. Cold days are the perfect excuse to wander through halls filled with treasures from every corner of the globe.
Check their calendar for current exhibitions and book a timed entry slot. The museum stays warm and welcoming, even if the wind is howling outside.
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15. Attend Live Jazz Nights In Soho
January nights in Soho beg for a tucked-away spot with mellow tunes, and the neighborhood doesn’t disappoint.
Some of London’s most iconic jazz clubs call Soho home; world-class musicians drift through their doors nightly, filling the air with sax solos and the occasional impromptu jam.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is the one people talk about; it’s been pulling in international stars since 1959.
