Greenwich is the place to be this Christmas. 

An extravaganza of events are in store, filled with sparkle, splendour – and lots of festive spirit. Meet Santa and discover an enchanting world at our new experience: Santa’s Grotto at the Queen’s House.  

If you’re looking for a winter adventure, why not grab your skates and head to the Queen’s House Ice Rink? Back for 2025, the open-air rink boasts stunning city views.  

Across Greenwich, there’ll be plenty of events to spread Christmas cheer, from twinkling lights on Cutty Sark to winter treats at Greenwich Market. 

Below, discover some of the unmissable experiences taking place  – and sign up to our newsletter to find out when more events are revealed.

Festive events in Greenwich

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The Queen's House in the snow at night with Father Christmas at the entrance

Santa’s Grotto at the Queen’s House 

Selected dates from 22 November – 24 December 2025

Make the festive season even more special with a visit to Santa’s Grotto at the Queen’s House. New for 2025, this experience takes you on a journey to a winter wonderland, inspired by the Christmas story of The Nutcracker.  

Along the way, you’ll explore magical lands, watch performances from tin soldiers, and say hello to Clara and the Nutcracker. Your adventure finishes in Santa’s Grotto, where little ones can meet Santa himself – and take home a special gift. 

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Close up image of a couple skating and holding hands on the Queen's House Ice Rink

The Queen’s House Ice Rink

Open from 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

London’s most beautiful open-air ice rink is back. Set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maritime Greenwich, the rink is the perfect place for an unforgettable day out.  

With VIP fast-track tickets and special sessions for toddlers available – plus a restaurant serving winter treats – the rink is designed with comfort and flexibility in mind. Get ready to glide around the ice.

This year, the Queen's House Ice Rink is brought to you by Tamarisk Events.

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Cutty Sark at night with mast lit up like a Christmas tree

Lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on in Greenwich

19 November 2025

Start your festive season in style at Greenwich’s annual Christmas lights switch-on. Beginning at 4pm on Wednesday 19 November, this fun-filled event includes a light procession through the heart of Maritime Greenwich. 

The event culminates with the Christmas lights switch-on in Greenwich Market at 5pm. The space will be transformed into a twinkling paradise, complete with music and seasonal food. Don't miss Cutty Sark's festive lights, which see the ship's mast transformed into a Christmas tree. Expect lots of Instagram inspiration. 

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Choose your tickets

We recommend booking tickets in advance wherever possible. View all tickets and prices.

Experience

Santa's Grotto at the Queen's House

  • Meet Santa and journey to an enchanting world
  • A 45-minute festive experience
  • Discover magical displays inspired by The Nutcracker
  • Enjoy storytelling and performances
  • Receive a special gift
  
Adult (early bird)£25
Child (early bird)£25
Under 1sFree
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Cutty Sark

  • Explore the main deck
  • Walk beneath the ship
  • See how the crew lived
  • Family activities and interactives
  • Guaranteed entry time
  • Audio guide included
Adult£22
Child£11
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Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass

  • Save with a combo ticket
  • Entry to Cutty Sark
  • Entry to Royal Observatory
  • Guaranteed entry time
Adult£38
Child£19
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Queen's House

  • Historic house
  • Internationally renowned art
  • Stunning architecture
  • Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I
  • Free tours and audio guides
Free entry
Book online
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Royal Observatory

  • Visit the Prime Meridian line
  • See the best view in London
  • Guaranteed entry time
  • Audio guide included
Adult£24
Child£12
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National Maritime Museum

  • Guaranteed entry time
  • Access to all free galleries and activities
Free entry
Book online
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Become a Member

  • Unlimited entry all year
  • Royal Observatory
  • Cutty Sark
  • Special exhibitions
Direct DebitOne-off
Individual: £65Individual: £75
Family: from £75Family: from £85
JOIN TODAY

Member tickets

  • Unlimited free entry
  • Priority booking and exclusive events
  • Access using your membership card
Membership card number required
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