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Christmas at the Tower

Victorian Traditions at Christmas

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When

27 November 2026 - 03 January 2027


Ticketing information


Included in palace admission (Members go free)

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This festive season, follow a trail of festive traditions around the Tower, discovering how the Victorians helped shape the Christmas we know and love today.

At the beginning of Queen Victoria’s reign, Christmas was a relatively quiet affair. By the end of the Victorian era, celebrations had been transformed with Christmas cards, decorated trees, gift giving and other familiar traditions becoming increasingly popular.

As you explore the Tower, discover festive scenes filled with trees, twinkling lights and gifts, and unwrap the stories behind some of our favourite Christmas traditions.

A Family standing in front of an illuminated Christmas tree at night at the Tower of London.

What are your festive traditions?

Decorating the tree, singing carols or sharing a terrible cracker joke? As you explore, each festive display reveals the story behind a tradition we still enjoy today. Discover how royal celebrations helped inspire generations to come, all while soaking up the twinkling Christmas atmosphere of the Tower.

Two young women taking selfies in front of a Christmas tree on the Tower Green at the Tower of London.

Step into a Victorian Christmas card

Across the Tower, illustrations in the style of classic Victorian Christmas cards will bring to life scenes of celebration at Christmas time. You can even step inside a Tower of London Christmas card for a festive family photo, with the iconic fortress as your backdrop.

A River Tour passenger holding a hot chocolate drink up with the river and Tower Bridge in the background

Add a cosy River Tour

Take in London's sparkling riverscape this festive season as you glide past iconic landmarks as they're dressed for Christmas and uncover London's rich history along the way.

Stay warm in our indoor observation lounge or enjoy the fresh riverside breeze from our open-air and covered outdoor decks.

Book the joint Tower and River Tour ticket for the ultimate festive day out in London.

Buy joint Tower and River Tour tickets
Shoppers at Christmas Market at Hampton Court Palace.

Unwrap more with membership

Enjoy even more festive magic with a Historic Royal Palaces membership. From Christmas at the Tower to Festive Fayre and Winter Palace at Hampton Court Palace, membership gives you even more reasons to celebrate the season at our palaces.

Plus, with unlimited visits throughout the year, the adventures don’t have to end when Christmas does.

Become a member

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