As we approach that unique stretch between Christmas and New Year – a time when the days blur and routines slip away while the anticipation of New Year’s Eve builds – Twixmas offers the perfect opportunity to explore, unwind, and indulge. If you’re already contemplating how to make the most of this period, we’ve got you covered with our guide to 40 enjoyable things to keep you busy between Christmas and New Year.

Click here to discover our guide to must-see art exhibitions in London this festive season.

• Experience breathtaking 360° views of London from Lift 109 at the iconic Battersea Power Station. Afterwards, embrace the festive spirit with a magical ice-skating session at the nearby rink – the ideal Twixmas day out!

• Catch up with loved ones over coffee and delicious pastries at some of London’s finest bakeries, including Boxcar Bakery, Layla Bakery, Miel Bakery, Fortitude Bakehouse, and Chatsworth Bakehouse.

• Wander through London’s beautiful green spaces like Richmond Park, Hampstead Heath, and Hyde Park. Whether it’s a snowy winter wonderland or simply a peaceful escape, these parks are perfect for reflection.

• On 28 December, don’t miss Rudimental headlining Big Game 16 at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium. This rugby and music event features pyrotechnics, lasers, and thrilling performances as Harlequins face Leicester Tigers. Tickets start at £38 for adults.

• Indulge in festive afternoon teas at charming locations such as The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel, the Tim Burton-themed afternoon tea at Harvey Nichols, or the elegant Regency Afternoon Tea at The Lane, Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Click here for our guide to the best festive afternoon teas in London.

• Gather your friends for a festive brunch at Dalloway Terrace, offering a special three-course menu from 26 December to 5 January. Highlights include lobster benedict and vanilla chai cheesecake.

• If you missed tickets for the official New Year’s Eve fireworks, don’t worry! Check out our guide to the best free spots for catching the spectacular display.

• Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Sade’s Diamond Life with a full live band performing her landmark debut album at Camden’s Jazz Cafe. 

• Glide across London’s festive ice rinks, including Skate at Somerset House, Hampton Court Palace, and Canary Wharf.

• Visit London’s most magnificent Christmas trees and displays with our guide to the must-see installations at the Royal Opera House, Royal Exchange, and Pan Pacific London. Click here for a visual preview of London’s most artistic trees.

• Enjoy spectacular performances like The Nutcracker at the Royal Albert Hall (until 31 December), Cinderella at the Royal Opera House (until 16 January), or Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at Sadler’s Wells.

• Experience epic music from The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Game of Thrones as a full orchestra performs at the Barbican on 29 December 2024.

• Take a wild dip on Christmas Day at traditional spots like Hampstead Heath ponds or the Serpentine.

• Discover London’s best viewing platforms, including Sky Garden, The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate, and Horizon 22 for breathtaking city views.

• Explore the Wallace Collection, a world-famous museum of art, furniture, and armour, built by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace. Then, visit their scenic café for a slice of delicious carrot cake.

• Ring in the New Year at the National Portrait Gallery with unique dining at The Portrait Restaurant or Larry’s Bar.

• Volunteer with Crisis to support individuals facing homelessness during the festive season.

• Enjoy timeless seasonal classics, alternative, and cult December films at The Garden Cinema, a charming independent venue perfect for movie lovers.

• Dance the night away at the Channel One Sound System Boxing Day Special at Village Underground. Expect reggae, dubplates, and conscious steppas vibes.

• Visit some of London’s cosiest wine bars, such as Goodbye Horses, Oranj, Cave Cuvée, and Noble Rot in Bloomsbury for a relaxing drink.

• Spend the day at the V&A Museum, exploring exhibitions like The Great Mughals, Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Elton John Collection, NAOMI: In Fashion and Jameel Prize: Moving Images. Don’t miss their 2024 Christmas tree installation, All Lit Up! by Anna Lomax.

• Experience REVERB by The Vinyl Factory at 180 Studios, now extended until the end of the year.

• Explore London’s festive markets at locations such as Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, and London Bridge.

• Visit Burgh House and Hampstead Museum, a hidden gem in North London, and enjoy lunch at The Buttery Café.

• Take in breathtaking views of London’s skyline from Greenwich Park, a peaceful retreat during Twixmas.

• Discover hidden gems like The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath, followed by a visit to Kenwood House.

• Don’t miss the final days of Christmas at Kew, a magical light trail through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.

• Start your day with a scenic walk through Primrose Hill, indulge in brunch at Avro, and watch the sunset from Parliament Hill.

• See Flaming June at the Royal Academy of Arts before it closes. The RA also features an exhibition on the titans of the Italian Renaissance: Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael.

• The Tate is currently showcasing ten remarkable exhibitions across its two London locations. At Tate Modern, explore Electric Dreams: Art and Technology Before the Internet, Anthony McCall: Solid Light, Mike Kelley: Ghost and Spirit, the powerful works of visual activist Zanele Muholi, and the striking Hyundai Commission: Mire Lee: Open Wound. Meanwhile, Tate Britain hosts two captivating exhibitions: The 80s: Photographing Britain, a vivid exploration of one of the UK’s most transformative decades, and the 2024 Turner Prize showcase, not to be missed.

• For more arts and culture, head to the Barbican. Don’t miss The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975–1998, featuring works by over 30 Indian artists, examining a pivotal period in the nation’s history. Also on show is It Will End in Tears by Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum, marking her first solo exhibition at a major UK institution. Both offer thought-provoking insights and stunning visuals.

• Enjoy classical music at Wigmore Hall with performances by the Carducci String Quartet, Nicky Spence, and more.

• Try paddle boarding at Regent’s Canal or locations like Primrose Hill and Camden Market for an adventurous day out.

• Step back in time at Dennis Severs’ House, a unique experience that feels like stepping into a historic painting.

• Explore some of London’s most historic homes, including Ham House, Hampton Court Palace, and Leighton House.

• Visit the National Theatre this Twixmas to catch The Importance of Being Earnest, a witty revival of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy. Before the show, explore the Southbank Centre Winter Market, brimming with festive treats, crafts, and seasonal food, for a magical riverside experience. Its final opening day is 26 December 2024.

• Embark on an exploration of London’s free public art. Click here for our guide.

Escape the City

• For a relaxing countryside escape, head to the Wilderness Reserve in Suffolk, where serviced cottages and farmhouses come with private pools and hot tubs.

• Book a stay at the Newt in Somerset, an elegant country estate. On the way, stop at Hauser & Wirth to see Phyllida Barlow’s exhibition, open until 5 January 2025.