Here at Barry House I often get asked about what to do on Christmas Day. Well it’s a time to enjoy London in relative peace and quiet. For one day in the year Public Transport, the buses and trains do not run, but this gives you the ideal opportunity to explore London on foot. And if you have never hired one of London’s “Boris Bikes” now is your chance. With the roads quieter than usual it’s the ideal opportunity to explore by bike.

So what is there to do? 

Talk a walk in Hyde Park. It may be cold, but the calm atmosphere can lift your spirits. If you are early you can watch the members of the Serpentine Swimming Club take part in the annual Christmas Day Peter Pan Swimming Race.

Imagine taking a sightseeing tour of London without the Traffic. Well on Christmas day that is what you will find. Several Tour companies run tours on Christmas Day. You can also book a River Thames Boat Cruise along with Christmas Lunch.

Talking about food, while many restaurants maybe closed many more now offer special Christmas day menus. It is a good idea to plan ahead and book if you wish to have a special Christmas Day meal, but several smaller food outlets will be open too. A few pubs will also offer Christmas Drinks at lunch time, but you may have to book if you want to visit in the evening.

Most London attractions will be closed but Ripley’s Believe it or Not in Piccadilly Circus will be open from 10am to 8pm.

As evening approaches in Christmas London the lights come on and you will have the perfect opportunity to enjoy them in all their glory without the bumping into Christmas Shoppers on Oxford Street and Regent Street.

Of course Christmas is a time for remembering God and you will certainly be welcome at many Churches around the City. However, be prepared to queue at some of the famous Cathedrals such as St Paul’s.