You know the weird in-between time after Christmas and before New Year? Well, it’s called Twixmas – from the word betwixt, which is an old-fashioned word for between – and here at Secret London, we’ve put together a guide on how to make it less ‘Meh’ and more ‘hell to the yeah!’
Don’t worry about the post-Christmas blues and the winter sniffles, because there are still loads of opportunities to stretch out the magic of the season that little bit longer (the Christmas decorations are still up on the tree after all). Plus, there are discounts aplenty – don’t say we don’t spoil you!
1. Catch a dazzling West End show
You’ve likely done your fair share of entertaining over Christmas, so now is your chance to sit back, relax and let some professionals take over. Enjoy a spectacular performance at one of London’s theatres this Twixmas, there’s plenty of West End shows to choose from, whether it’s watching a fashion fiend in killer heels at the Devil Wears Prada musical, witnessing calamity and chaos at The Play That Goes Wrong or finally seeing the fantastical musical behind the cinematic hit Wicked.
2. Marvel at the magical light trails before they close
Break out of your Christmas cocoon, put on a woolly hat and head outside to brighten your Twixmas nights with some kaleidoscopic colour and hypnotic light installations. London has no shortage of spellbinding light festivals and trails that will add some magic to this time of seasonal limbo, whether it’s journeying through the illuminated nature at Kew Gardens, stepping inside the giant, glittering bauble-like spheres at The Chelsea Winter Illuminations or witnessing the iconic tale of Peter Pan being brought to luminescent life at Neverland at Kenwood. With the festive season coming to an end, this is likely your last chance to soak up the spectacle.
3. Pay a visit to Winter Wonderland while it’s still around
If you’ve got a Christmas activities itch that still just can’t be scratched, we recommend heading to this classic winter fairground-style pop-up before it vanishes back into thin air on January 1 for another year or so. From adrenaline-pumping rides to their legendary Bavarian beer hall, there’s plenty to see and do here during the Twixmas period.
One thing you can’t miss is a stroll through their Christmas markets section which has over 100 traditional chalets offering charming Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts and culinary delights from all around Europe. There are also bars aplenty if you’re still looking for that extra Christmas tipple, as well as the UK’s largest open-air ice rink. Due to numbers, make sure you book ahead this year.
4. Channel your inner hero at the Minecraft Villager Rescue adventure
Looking to embark on an adventure this Twixmas? This immersive Minecraft Villager Rescue experience lets fans step inside the game to battle mobs, gather resources, and brew a potion to save zombie villagers in a series of seven colourful, projection-filled rooms. Using state-of-the-art tech, your Orb of Interaction syncs your movements with the Minecraft world around you, turning simple gestures into in-game actions.
The 45-minute, family-friendly interactive scavenger hunt is designed to delight both seasoned players and total newcomers to Minecraft. You can also unlock a limited-edition in-game cape as a keepsake of their real-world quest. Grab your tickets here.
5. Get lost in an epic story at the cinema
When in doubt, go to the cinema. That’s my motto anyway, and, handily, there’s plenty to see on the big screen this December. Whether it’s witnessing the epic battles and bioluminescent wonders of ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’, debating over the impossible choice posed by rom-com ‘Eternity‘ or watching Jack Black and Paul Rudd face off against seriously giant snakes in meta-reboot flick ‘Anaconda‘, you’re sure to find something to tempt you into the cinema – even if it’s just an excuse to scoff some popcorn. Check out the full list of films and events here.
6. Wander off that Christmas meal with a countryside walk
After all that ceremonial stuffing your face with turkey, pigs in blankets and mince pies, Twixmas might be a good time to get a head-start on that January fitness regime! Why not wrap up in your warmest outerwear and head out of town to tackle a country walk in the rolling, green hills of England? Top walks include Surrey’s Box Hill hike, the Seaford to Eastbourne ramble – which takes in the famous Seven Sisters cliffs and Beachy Head – and Bodiam Castle, one of Britain’s most evocative castles, characterised by soaring turrets, manicured grounds and an extensive moat.
7. Enjoy otherworldly indoor thrills at Babylon Park
All the family can have a blast at Babylon Park, home to London’s only indoor rollercoaster, a toddler-friendly Ferris wheel, cosmic bumper cars and even soft play for the little ones. Secreted away under the streets of Camden, the neon-drenched, intergalactic playground is also packed with hundreds of arcade machines where you can button bash your heart out or blow off some post-Christmas steam by battling your sibling in an action-packed shooting game. If you want to try out everything, you can opt for the unlimited access ticket to get your fill of as many games and rides as you like.
8. Go for a Twixmas spin on an ice rink
So many lovely ice rinks pop up around the capital for the Christmas period, and here at Secret London, we’re always sad to see them go – so you’d better get your skates on while you have the chance! One of the most magical is situated right outside Battersea Power Station, and one of London’s highest is found among the clouds (kinda) at Peckham’s Bussey Rooftop Bar. Others include the iconic Somerset House rink, the brand-new Skate Leicester Square, and the one outside the Queen’s House, set amongst the dreamy surrounds of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greenwich.
Many of these rinks are here until January, but Canary Wharf’s offering is with us all the way up until February 22, so there’s plenty of time to go and perfect your pirouettes.
9. Explore an esoteric world at the Dark Secrets exhibition
Santa Claus isn’t the only mysterious being to emerge from the world of folklore…and not all elves craft toys in the North Pole. If you need an escape from all the dazzling lights and obligatory cheer this season, you can retreat into the shadows of Dark Secrets: The Esoteric Exhibition, a gateway into a realm of magic, folklore, occultism and the supernatural, which is tucked away at The Vaults in Waterloo.
Inside, you’ll be able to delve into the stories behind an extensive collection of over 1,000 objects and curiosities, with 27 themed rooms which explore everything from voodoo to mythical creatures. Bought your kid a doll this Christmas? Just be warned, you might rethink your decision in the shudder-inducing, cursed doll room. Get your tickets here.
10. Brave the Boxing Day sales in person or virtually
Chances are sales will be happening both in person and virtually, so you can still sit with your laptop and a glass of mulled wine and grab yourself some bargains. Skyscanner will probably also be offering a few surprise flight deals, so keep your eyes peeled for those here.
These are our favourite discounts from our friends at Fever
11. Delight in an evening of provocative cabaret at King’s Cross
Spice up the holly jolly season by stepping into the intoxicating world of Sabrage, London’s most seductive immersive show. Found at Lafayette in King’s Cross, the show promises an evening of glitz and glamour with daring circus performances, cheeky humour, and a dazzling speakeasy. You’ll be able to sip artisanal cocktails and watch as talented performers deliver an unforgettable blend of spectacle and sensuality. Just keep in mind, this wildly entertaining experience is strictly for over-18s due to its risqué themes and adult content. You can find tickets here.
12. Indulge in yet more food and drink this Twixmas
It’s not quite January yet, and Twixmas is the perfect time in which to fill your boots with yet more food and drink. If you’ve had enough of turkey or nut roast with all the trimmings, why not try one of London’s endless bottomless brunch offerings, including a brilliant one at Boccocino – letting you devour pizza and sink hearty rounds of bubbly.
You could also indulge in a fabulously-festive afternoon tea or do a pub crawl around 40 (!) of London’s best pubs with heated outdoor areas – well, some of them, at least!
13. Delve into London’s history under the cover of darkness
London remains one of the world’s most visited cities, and many come for its fascinating and diverse history. Many architectural gems here date all the way back to the mid-16th century, and instantly recognisable landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, and Big Ben are all steeped in legends of days gone by – We all remember, remember the fifth of November. Go out for a big ol’ explore and see what the city has got to teach you (spoiler: loads).
14. Get preparing for Veganuary
Now, for those who are planning to partake in Veganuary in 2026, this could be done in a few different ways. For one, you might want to eat the meal you’re going to miss the most, be it your favourite London breakfast or your beloved Sunday roast with the family. Or, you could get started earlier, either by diving straight into it after Christmas dinner, or by gradually increasing your number of meat-free meals.
Regardless of your method, you’ll want to be planning what you’re going to eat in January 20246, so it’s fortunate that London is absolutely full to the brim with vegan restaurants. Here’s some of our favourites.
15. Head to this idyllic village to step inside some iconic rom-coms
Tis’ the season for a snow-dusted rom-com. If your television has recently been glowing with a near-constant stream of plinky-plonky music and tearful declarations of love, then an idyllic escape could be just the ticket this Twixmas. What better place for a rom-com fan to explore than the charming Surrey village of Shere? Aka the real-life setting of Nancy Meyers’ beloved flick ‘The Holiday’.
Located less than two hours from London, the film-famous village is full of familiar spots you’ll recognise from the screen, from cosy pubs like The White Horse (picture that charming Jude Law smile) to scenic countryside trails (think of that climactic run in heels). It has also starred in countless British films and TV series, including ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’, ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ and ‘The Wedding Date’. It’s basically a must-visit for movie fans and day-trippers alike.
16. Voyage into history at this captivating Titanic exhibition
Follow in the footsteps of passengers at this multi-sensory Titanic experience in London, where 360-degree projections, evocative artefacts and virtual reality bring the ship’s fateful story to life. Featuring 13 atmospheric rooms, from the grand staircase and Café Parisien to the ship’s engine room, this experience shines a light on the moving personal stories behind the tragedy. A fusion of cutting-edge technology and sound recreations will allow you to explore the human side of history in a two-hour experience that’s suitable for all ages. Get your tickets here.
17. Prep for a healthy new year with a full-body MOT
At Covent Garden’s ultra-modern Neko Health clinic, you can swap the usual doctor’s surgery vibe for a calming, spa-like experience while getting a comprehensive check on your wellbeing in just 60 minutes. The state-of-the-art spot offers an innovative, non-invasive body scan that captures over 2,000 images, builds a personalised avatar and checks everything from moles and freckles to grip and eye strength, plus on-site blood tests for rapid results.
This full-body MOT promises an in-depth, futuristic health overview with sci-fi reminiscent technology that feels like it should cost thousands but is actually £299, making advanced preventative healthcare slightly more accessible in central London.
18. End Twixmas with a bang
This part of the year always seems to simultaneously last forever, like time standing still, and go by in a flash. However you spend it this year, there’s one way that scores and scores of us will choose to end Twixmas: taking in the London New Year’s Eve fireworks, which promise to be pretty incredible this year.
Whether you have a ticket to the front, a view from your flat (TV, top floor window or balcony – all are good), or a vantage point from a rooftop London, you’ve got check out the dazzling painting of London’s skyline as it waves goodbye to Twixmas and ushers 2026 out onto the stage. Showtime.
So there you have it; 18 excellent things to do for Twixmas this year. Whether you want to get lost in a world of paradoxes or fancy taking a look under the surface of some of our most legendary landmarks, there’s more than enough to keep you busy this year!