Things To Do On Boxing Day In London

If you've simply not done enough board games over the festive period and require your knowledge to be tested even more, venture down to The Ladywell Tavern in South London for its Thursday pub quiz night.

It only costs £2 to play and you can enjoy some delicious pub food and drink while you're at it too. Come as a group or make new friends as you bond over facts and song lyrics for a £50 bar tab this Boxing Day.

This Boxing Day, London is spoiling us with its selection of Christmas afternoon teas. If you've polished off the mandatory box of Roses and still have a hankering for more sweet treats, then you'll love these offerings with miniature sandwiches and pastries. 

How about mixing things up and boarding a revamped 1960s Routmaster to chomp on cupcakes while sightseeing? Or maybe an Alpine hideaway is more your thing. Whatever your desires, we've got you covered. 

Fancy getting outside this holiday season? Get ready for a pulse-pounding mission with StreetHunt Games: Will Breaker. This outdoor adventure combines the thrill of a detective story with the excitement of exploring London's iconic streets. You'll step into the shoes of an investigator tasked with unravelling a high-stakes mystery while racing against the clock.

Guided by your phone and your wits, you'll follow a trail of cryptic clues, solve cunning puzzles, and uncover hidden secrets scattered across the city. Whether you're in it for the glory or just the fun, you'll need teamwork, creativity, and a keen eye to crack the case.

This Boxing Day in London, venture into the West End to catch one of its spectacular shows; while the museums and galleries may be having a day off, the theatre most certainly isn't.

One of the handful of performances going ahead on the 26th is TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, the acclaimed show written by Olivier award-winning Katori Hall. And if you're up for something a little more retro? Join steam engine Rusty on his conquest to win the championships with tickets to Starlight Express. 

If you're looking for a Boxing Day brunch in London, head to Italian restaurant Bocconcino Soho for a free-flowing affair, with tickets from £75 per person. Sip on unlimited prosecco, Aperol spritzes or Champagne while enjoying a decadent spread of Italian-inspired dishes, all crafted to perfection.

As you savour every bite of wood-fired pizza, let the sounds of live music set the mood, turning your brunch into an electric post-Christmas party. Whether you're unwinding after the holiday rush or extending the celebrations, this is the ultimate way to elevate your plans for the 26th of December.

Join The English Grill, nestled in The Rubens at The Palace Hotel, on Boxing Day to extend your seasonal celebrations in style. This enchanting and grand dining destination will be rustling up beautiful dishes, including a scrumptious free-range bronze black leg turkey, as part of its festive lunch menu from £129 per person.

Indulge in a three-course spread with a moreish hazelnut and chocolate torte for dessert, or opt to visit for its delightful Winter Wonderland afternoon tea from £82 per person. Gobble up delicate pastries and wash them down with a glass of mulled wine. 

Four-star venue The Montague on The Gardens Hotel is a great choice for festive fun this year, and their Boxing Day offering is not to be missed. End the festivities on a high with their delicious three-course menu, which features everything from a beer and black treacle-glazed celeriac steak burger to lobster ravioli.

You can find this elegant space close to the British Museum, right in the heart of the action, where there's also a stunning Alpine lodge to hunker down in too. And if you simply can't get enough of sweet treats, check out its festive afternoon tea from £70 per person, which includes a glass of mulled wine and mince pies. 

Walk off that Christmas feast from the night before and get involved with a Fun Puzzle Pub Crawl Treasure Hunt. Starting at the historic Marquis of Granby, this self-guided experience takes you on a spirited journey through Soho's vibrant streets. Armed with a treasure map and a head full of curiosity, you'll uncover hidden gems, solve riddles, and discover London's quirkiest corners.

But the real highlight? You'll hop between some of the area's most iconic pubs, each one a stop on your quest to crack the clues. Sip a pint, soak in the atmosphere, and bond with your crew as you navigate this lively urban treasure hunt.

Situated in the West End, Albert's Schloss is the Bavarian-themed bar that's perfect for post-Christmas shenanigans. Not only do they serve up steins of German beer and cracking cocktails, but they'll also be hosting their regular Baby Grand Slam piano event - where you can request songs for their talented musicians to play.

And if you're feeling peckish? There's all sorts of treats on the menu, from a classic chicken schnitzel to currywurst and halloumi burgers.

Step into a world of wonder at Lost in Light this Boxing Day, a mesmerising experience celebrating the magic of light and creativity. Brought to you by Squidsoup (known for collaborating with DJ Four Tet), it's truly unique. 

Suitable for all ages, this immersive event features dazzling light installations, interactive displays, and photo-perfect moments that are sure to captivate and inspire. Wander through stunning visual displays and discover art in a whole new light - all while soaking up a vibrant atmosphere.

Nestled on the iconic Southbank, Fire & Fromage is a winter wonderland that will have you melting with delight. Brought to you by the creative geniuses at Jimmy's Pop-Up, this alpine-inspired retreat is the ultimate destination for cosy vibes, sizzling flavours, and indulgent cheese-filled feasts.

Picture this: twinkling fairy lights, the crackle of a roaring fire pit, and the comforting aroma of all-you-can-eat melted raclette (for just £35) wafting through the air. Whether you're gathering under the stars or sharing stories around the fire, every corner of this venue radiates après-ski charm.

Step into the groove on the 26th with Strictly Vinyl Thursdays at 26 Curtain Road in Shoreditch. This retro-inspired event celebrates the pure, authentic sound of vinyl, featuring DJs spinning an eclectic mix of classic hits, rare gems, and dancefloor favourites straight from the turntables.

Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or just love the vibe of old-school beats, this night promises incredible music in a stylish, laid-back setting. Grab a drink, soak up the atmosphere, and let the timeless tunes carry you through the evening. Better yet, it's free.

Get ready for a night of high-energy fun at Coyote Ugly on the 26th, where the drinks flow, the music pumps, and the atmosphere is electric.

Inspired by the legendary bar in the iconic movie, this vibrant venue in London across Picadilly and Camden promises an unforgettable experience with its signature blend of wild entertainment and lively vibes. Expect talented bartenders dancing on the bar, top-tier cocktails, and a playlist of rock, pop, and party anthems to keep you moving all day and night as part of its bottomless brunch experience. 

Get ready for a night of live music like no other at The Piano Works, a vibrant, one-of-a-kind venue where the playlist is entirely up to you. Located in Farringdon and the West End, this lively spot combines the energy of a nightclub with the charm of a live music experience.

Request your favourite songs, and watch as the talented house band brings them to life, playing everything from chart-topping hits to timeless classics. With a buzzing dance floor, delicious food and drink options, and an electric atmosphere, its events are the perfect destination if you want to keep the festivities going.

If it's laughs you're looking for this Boxing Day, Trapeze Bar will give you plenty at its Thursday Comedy Club. Tickets start from a tenner and this weekly showcase features a mix of rising stars and seasoned pros from the UK comedy circuit, guaranteeing fresh laughs and unforgettable moments.

So, sit back, sip on your favourite drinks, and enjoy the sharp wit and side-splitting humour of some of the best talent in the game, as previous guests have featured on the likes of Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week and more. 

If you're looking for free things to do in London on Boxing Day, then how about embarking on one of these gorgeous winter walks? We've compiled a guided full of cosy pubs to stop off at along the way, as well as scenic views across the city.

Try strolling from Highgate to Hampstead Heath, or wander around Walthamstow Wetlands with a nice rewarding pint at Exale Brewery at the end. You'll find plenty of wildlife around that area too, like bats and amphibians.  

This Boxing Day, go on a Christmas lights tour around London, checking out all the must-see spots while doing a spot of shopping.

Head to Oxford Street where you'll find it lined with twinkling ribbons, or make your way over to Covent Garden, where its market fronts ginormous bells. And if you fancy a pint but don't want to scrimp on decor? Check out The Churchill Arms in Notting Hill where you'll discover the boozer made over with 90 conifer trees.

Make Boxing Day in London 2024 a cosy one by checking out some of the best hot chocolate the city has to offer. If marshmallow-loaded drinks are your thing, then you'll love Chin Chin's offerings across Soho and Camden.

Or, head to Shoreditch for Dark Sugars, the now social media famous shop that specialises in authentic African cocoa and whose hot serves come topped with shredded shards of white and milk chocolate.