A favourite amongst artists, filmmakers, songwriters and dreamers from around the world — London is a blank canvas for those who imagine. With its poignant past dating back several centuries, today the city is a melting pot of varied cultures and diverse nationalities.
What makes the city worth a visit is not just its splendid architectural spectacles or its lavish British cuisine that is today a favourite of many — but that London has something for everyone. Whether it is art, fashion, food or music — London will infuse these into its lively cityscape, no matter where you look. London in January sees an array of shopping arcades opening up after a hectic December, and the weather complies with it by remaining cheerful as well!
London in Janaury: What makes it special?
A large part of the city begins the year with the much-anticipated New Year’s Parade on the 1st of January, which often ends the festive season on a high. While there is a good chance you may still be able to catch a couple of holiday decorations up in the city, be prepared for the cold that is carry-forwarded into the new year after December. London in January also sees various workshops, fairs and pop-up markets here and there. So, despite the lull that comes at the end of a vibrant December, London in January will still manage to surprise you!
London in Janaury: Weather?
With winter still in transit, London in January is cold and wet. Temperatures range from 8°C to 5°C, with humidity ranging from 64% to 95%. London experiences 11 days of rainfall in January and only 8 hours of daylight throughout the day. Snow isn't widespread, but it does occur occasionally.
London in Janaury: Things to do
1
Tower of London
The well-known Tower of London that reminds us of London’s poignant history where a king, three queens and several nobles awaited their death. Today, it stands as a reminder and a museum that allows the public to catch a quick glimpse of what the yesteryears used to be.
St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB,
UK
Getting There ›
2
The Shard
The iconic glass building that shoots up into the skies of London provides exceptional views of the city. Whether you end up catching a breakfast or drink at one of its restaurants or simply viewing from the observatory — a visit to the Shard is an experience which is bound to stay with you for life.
32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG,
UK
Getting There ›
3
Warner Bros. Harry Potter tour
Fans of the series can get a spectacular look into the studio that created Harry Potter. The unique walking tour promises a magical experience, with lots of behind-the-scenes moments, larger than life sets, original costumes and untouched props. Rediscover nostalgia at Warner Bros. Studio like never before with the Harry Potter Tour.
Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden WD25 7LR,
UK
Getting There ›
4
Westminster Abbey
Trace back to the emergence of early gothic architecture that Westminster Abbey flaunts even today. Apart from being an important monument for Catholic pilgrimage, the abbey also narrates a rich history of its royal past. Over the years, it has witnessed a number of royal weddings, coronations and also funerals.
20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA,
UK
Getting There ›
5
River Thames cruise
Take a luxurious Thames River cruise to look at the famous attractions from a brand new perspective. The splendour of London is best enjoyed in the comfort of the cruise boat, which is equipped with lower and upper decks, as well as panoramic windows for the best views.
Pipers Island, Bridge St, Reading RG4 8AH,
UK
Getting There ›
6
Kensington Palace
Another notable royal residence, the Kensington Palace still remains home of the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge as well as the Duke & Duchess of Sussex. However, despite that, a part of it remains open to the public, where visitors can take a closer look into the royal family’s life so far.
Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX,
UK
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7
Shakespeare Globe Theatre
The aesthetic Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre was built in 1599, but after being destroyed in a fire in 1613, it was rebuilt again. However, it was further demolished in 1944, until it was founded by Sam Wanamaker. Open to the public since 1997, today the theatre stands as a reminder of Shakespeare’s playing company.
21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT,
UK
Getting There ›
8
Day trip to Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a 5,000-year-old stone structure that dominates the British landscape that has taken it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tourists from around the globe are seen often making a London to Stonehenge Tour to the mystical monument that has been standing tall, without any explanation, from the past 5 millennia.
Amesbury, Salisbury SP4 7DE,
UK
Getting There ›
9
West End Theatre
West End shows are a common source of entertainment for London theatregoers. They usually feature a host of genres — including musicals, dramas and also children’s theatre shows — and are also consumed as a tourist activity in London. The ‘Theatreland’ district also has a number of historic tales for those passionate about history.
40 Bloomsbury Way Lower Ground Floor, London WC1A 2SE,
UK
Getting There ›
10
Take a stadium tour
Football fans can now hold their breath and visit one of the iconic stadiums, the London Stadium. An exciting tour will acquaint you with your favourite star player’s life up close, along with never-seen-before artefacts that are essential to the history of sports in London.
London,
UK
Getting There ›
London in Janaury: Events to look out for
Hogwarts in Snow at Warner Bros Studios
November 11, 2023 – January 14, 2024
Experience a festive makeover of your favourite Wizarding School, and watch it transform into a winter wonderland this January. The stage that will be set up for the iconic Yule Ball will feature silver icicles and shimmering snow apart from the Christmas feast. Live your dream at the Warner Bros Studios this January!
London Short Film Festival
January 19 - 28, 2024
January in London will give way to some of the most talented and budding filmmakers. Like every year, 2024 too will feature several categories along with Best International Short Film, Best Documentary Short Film, Best Animated Short Film and Best Experimental Short Film amongst others that simply shouldn’t be missed out on!
London’s New Year’s Day Parade
January 1, 2024
Watch a vibrant celebration featuring more than 8,000 performers lighting up the streets on the 1st of January. With a team of synchronised acrobats, dancers, cheerleaders and a marching band, the New Year’s Day Parade is one of the most eagerly awaited events that bring the city to celebrate together.
Depeche Mode Concert
January 22, 2024
Depeche Mode, the English electronic music band is playing in London's O2 Arena. On their Memento Mori Tour, hailed by Rolling Stone as "a stunning celebration of life and music", they'll be supporting and raising funds for The Conservation Collective, a UK-based environmental charity. Tickets are selling out fast! So book yours today and here.
London in Janaury: 1-3 day itinerary
Planning to spend a couple of days during your visit to London in January? Here's our handcrafted 3 Days in London itinerary plan for you to make the best memories.
If you are short on time, we have you covered, too! Check out our post on how to make the most of one day in London.
London in Janaury: Essentials
LanguageEnglish
Time zoneGMT+1
Country Code+44
Socket Type G
CurrencyPound (£, GBP)
Where to stay in London during January
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the nightlife or simply relax in the countryside, there’s a neighbourhood for everyone in London. It is ideal to pick a stay closer to convenience if you’re planning to be on the move during your stay. However, if you wish to simply stay and take in the cosmopolitan beauty, Covent Garden is a great place to stay. Here you may find shopping arcades and a chain of restaurants, apart from being accessible from the city. If tranquillity is what you crave, staying in Hampstead will give you a good break away from the hustle of the city life, but will not deprive you of luxury.
What to pack for visiting London in January
London in January is still as cold as it is in December. Which means, it is essential to stay warm and covered up during the season. However, since traveling with a luggage is not always feasible, it is important to pack in moderation and keep it light. Pack gloves, scarves, and boots that are absolutely essential and can help protect you from the chilly winds. A sturdy umbrella is a good idea as well, as it tends to rain erratically during this season. Above all, make sure you only carry clothes that are fit for the season.
Getting around London in January
A good thing about London is that it is fantastically connected and accessible by several modes of transport. It boasts of a remarkable network of metro and underground railways apart from having a timely and fully functional bus service as well. The most trustworthy, and sought after way to get around in London is the Underground — or Tube, as it is referred by the locals. The Overground metro works similar to the Tube, and while it was created to bridge the gap that the Underground left, it generally ends up covering the same areas as the Tube. London also has Rail Services that have trains running in and out of London. Apart from these, the iconic bus still remains the most-used public transport in London, and there is a bus route for almost everywhere you need to go.
London in Janaury: Must-try delicacies
When in London, you cannot miss out on fish and chips. Besides tea, this is the dish that forms the global opinion about British cuisine. This dish is made of fluffy chips, fried fish, and mushy peas with salt and vinegar.
Where to find: Poppies Fish & Chips or Golden Union Fish Bar.
More than just a sandwich, the Chorizo Roll is a favourite of Londoners and is prepared using a Spanish sausage and piquillo peppers that spices it up. You’re bound to find long queues near a Chorizo Roll stall, so make sure to get there early!
Where to find: Brindisa, Borough Market.
This British classic is lunch specialty and is typically quite heavy. As opposed to how the name sounds, this is not a dessert. A batter made of eggs and flour is baked in the oven and then softened with gravy and had with roast beef, turkey, or ham.
Where to find: The Little Blue Door and Mr. Fogg’s Tavern.
A favourite of many and a year-round indulgence in London, oysters are considered to be an item of luxury. One can enjoy a light delicacy of oysters, with squeezed lemon and some brown bread. Pair it up with a glass of wine and a side portion of salad, and you’re good to go!
Where to find: Wright Brothers
Brown, light and perfectly flaky — a sausage roll in London is perhaps a favourite go-to food for many. Freshly baked with chilli flakes, pepper and thyme, there are several restaurants as well as roadside cafes serving delectable sausage rolls .
Where to find: The Blue Posts
Explore London by months
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Read our complete guide best time to visit London to plan a carefully thought out trip to the capital of the United Kingdom.
London in Janaury: Visiting tips
- Wrap yourself in plenty of warm layers. January and February tend to be the coldest months in London.
- London in January still dons spectacular Christmas lightings up that can be a visual treat to look at.
- Make sure you visit the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. Apart from being covered in snow, in Hyde Park you can witness magical creatures made of ice greet you on your arrival and also enjoy an exciting ice-skating session. Wonder at the city’s skyline from on top of the Giant Observation Wheel!
- Since hotels tend to be cheaper during the winter, you might be able to stay at a nicer place for less.
- Use a Visitor Oyster Card to get around London and save about 50% on commute.
- Lace up your ice skates because London in January is a great time to make the most of its outdoor rinks.
- Utilize the London Pass to get into around 60 attractions for free. Check for fast-track entry for some of those attractions.
- London Theatre Tickets can be bought for less than half the price during the months of January and February. With their annual New Year Sale, you can get tickets for leading shows at £10, £20, £30 or £40 from January 1 - February 15, 2024.
- Do not shy out of a little old-fashioned haggling at the London markets.
- Open up your heart to the cafes and food trucks that serve healthy, filling food if you want to save some money.
London in Janaury: FAQs
What are the top things to do in London in January?
What are the best day trips to take from London in January?
Are any famous attractions closed in London in January?
What is an ideal itinerary for visiting London in January?
Is January a good time to visit London?
