Free Things to do in South Bank
You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a great day out sightseeing in South Bank.
The last week of December is always a magical time to be in London. Twinkling lights, dazzling shows, quirky pop-ups, cosy pubs and world-famous attractions - there's plenty to keep you busy during the festive break!
Here's a look at what's on and who's open in South Bank during the Christmas and New Year's holidays.
Art, theatre & film
While away the chilly evenings at the cinema
There’s always something interesting to see at the BFI Southbank, one of London's most celebrated cinemas. Catch one of the special screenings from their latest themed seasons such as the Too Much: Melodrama on Film season, which presents the very best of the cinema melodrama from the 1940s to the present day (until 31 December) or catch a classic feel-good Christmas film.
When’s it open?
The cinema is open daily. Closed 24, 25, 26 and 31 Dec.
See an exhibition at Hayward Gallery
During the festive season holidays don't miss your last chance to view Hayward Gallery's major survey of the iconic London art duo Gilbert & George. Exploring themes of hope, fear, sex, religion, corruption and death, this exhibition focuses on their 21st-century work and features more than 60 large-scale immersive pictures from key series like NEW HORNY PICTURES (2001), THE LONDON PICTURES (2011), THE BEARD PICTURES (2016), and THE CORPSING PICTURES (2022).
When's it open?
The exhibition runs until 11 Jan. Closed on Mondays, and 22-26 Dec, Tue 30 Dec and Thu 1 Jan
Gilbert & George at Hayward Gallery
Ballet Shoes at National Theatre
Meanwhile, at National Theatre, this year's major family production, running right through to February, is a magical adaptation of Noel Streatfield’s beloved novel Ballet Shoes. First published in 1936, Ballet Shoes is a heartwarming and uplifting tale of three very different orphaned siblings who follow their passions and work hard to smash glass ceilings as they strive to lift their family out of poverty.
When?
Ballet Shoes is playing until 21 Feb. No performances on Sundays and 24-25 Dec.
Top Hat at Queen Elizabeth Hall
Southbank Centre is puttin' on the ritz this festive season with a dazzling staging of Irving Berlin's classic musical Top Hat. Based on the 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat is an all-singing, all-dancing celebration of the glitz and glamour of old school Hollywood.
When?
Top Hat is playing until 17 Jan. No performances on Mondays, 25, 26 and 31 Dec, and 1 Jan
Sh!t Theatre: Evita Too at Southbank Centre
The hilarious Rebecca Biscuit and Louise Mothersole, aka Sh!t Theatre, bring their unique mega-musical take on life and politics to South Bank with their latest hit show. In EVITA TOO, the pair race through the wild story of Isabel Perón, gogo-dancer-turned-president who led Argentina for 18 disastrous months. Through a deliberately DIY aesthetic that is a collage of documentary, song, comedy and multimedia, the pair hilariously explores the ethics of populism and the heartbreak of loss.
When?
Playing until 31 Dec. No performances on Mondays and 22-26 Dec
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
Jack Thorne’s magical imagining of A Christmas Carol has become a regular annual fixture at The Old Vic, and year after year, audiences have not ceased to be bowled over by this major feel-good production. The show’s unique ‘in-the-round’ staging brings the audience and cast closer together as the play progresses with music, dance, mince pies and a seriously heart-warming finale that will have you running to drop your coins into the charity box on the way out.
When?
Playing at The Old Vic until 11 Jan
The Playboy of the Western World at National Theatre
Caitríona McLaughlin directs Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton), Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synge’s riveting story of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when, on a normal day, a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer Christy Mahon becomes a local folk hero, winning hearts as he embeds himself into village life...
When?
Showing until 28 Feb
Avatar: Fire & Ash in 3D at BFI IMAX
Jake Sully, Neytiri and their family once again find themselves hunted by humans intent on destroying Pandora’s ecosystem, all in the name of corporate greed. Leaving behind the aquatic water world that defined the second film in the series, they head into the warmer climes of Pandora’s primeval volcanic landscape for this final installment of James Cameron's epic series.
When?
Multiple screenings per day from 19 Dec until 1 Jan. No screenings on 25 Dec
Family entertainment
Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart at Royal Festival Hall
Join children's TV’s favourite doctors on a dino-mite adventure to unearth the most dangerous, most powerful, most important fart in history, in a gigantic brand-new show. Dr Chris and Dr Xand are back with a roarsome show packed with all-new crazy experiments, perfect entertainment for kids aged 5+
When?
On stage from 22 Dec to 2 Jan. No shows 23-25 and 27-29 Dec, and on 1 Jan
Bluey's Big Play at Royal Festival Hall
Back by popular demand, Bluey’s Big Play is a theatrical adaptation of the Emmy Award-winning children’s television series, based on an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm amnd with original music by Bluey composer Joff Bush. For this charming interactive stage show the young puppy Bluey Heeler and her family have been brought to life with brilliantly created puppets.
When?
On stage from 18 Dec to 11 Jan. No shows 22, 25-26 and 31 Dec, and 1-2 and 5 Jan
The Paddington Bear Experience
Join Paddington Bear and the Brown family for a very special day out at this official Paddington Bear immersive experience inspired by the beloved films. A unique and fun-filled interactive experience inspired by the nation’s favourite bear, visitors are whisked away on a 70-minute adventure packed with interactive games, abundant character interactions, and lots of surprises along the way. Especially for the festive season, the whole experience has also had a magical Christmas makeover.
When's it open?
Open daily, closed 25 Dec. Online booking is advised.
Journey to the land of Far Far Away at Shrek’s Adventure!
Ride the 4D flying bus, make your way through the Mirror Maze of Insanity and cook up a magic spell at this interactive adventure featuring 10 fairytale-themed live shows, based on the characters from the popular Shrek films. The experience is designed to lead children on a colourful fairytale journey where they are the central character. And, of course, every visit ends with a chance to meet Shrek himself.
When’s it open?
Open daily, closed 25 Dec. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance for discounted rates!
Thrills and spills at The London Dungeon
See, hear, feel and smell the chillingly amusing characters of ye olde London as they come to life through 19 interactive shows and two underground rides at this wildly entertaining walk-through experience. This one's a fun day out for anyone with a taste for stomach for gruesome tales and stomach-churning rides (best suited to teenagers!), all themed around the darker moments of London's colourful history.
When’s it open?
Open daily, closed 25 Dec. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance for discounted rates.
Go underwater at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
One of the biggest aquariums in Britain, the London Aquarium at County Hall is a must-see. Marvel at the biggest collection of aquatic creatures from tropical ‘nemos’ and colourful jellyfish to turtles and the cutest little penguins. The regular keepers' talks throughout the day are well worth making time for and you’ll be mesmerised by the immense stingrays and sharks swimming past your eyes in the aquarium’s biggest tanks.
When’s it open?
Open daily, closed 25 Dec. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance for the best rates!
Interactive fun & games
Book a karaoke room at Lucky Voice
Located inside The Sidings centre adjoining Waterloo Station, Lucky Voice karaoke club boasts eight state-of-the-art private karaoke rooms and a late-night bar. Book a room for a sing-along with your pals and stay on late for drinks afterwards at the speakeasy bar, or if you're looking for something different to do with the kids, families can make bookings Sun-Wed afternoons during the school holidays.
When’s it open?
Open daily. Closed 24-26 Dec
Lucky Voice Waterloo
A board games afternoon at Draughts
London’s original board games bar Draughts, located inside the famous Leake Street graffiti tunnel, is the ideal spot to while away a frosty day in cosy surrounds. Located inside one of the old railway arches, there are more than 1,000 different board games to choose from, covering every possible interest, plus a full food and drinks menu to keep you satisfied.
When’s it open?
Open daily. Closed 24 and 25 Dec.
Duckpin bowling at BrewDog Waterloo
One of the largest bars in Britain, the epic BrewDog at The Sidings at Waterloo Station has plenty going on to keep you busy during the holidays, including duckpin bowling and an insta-famous slide! During the 'Twixmas' holiday season (between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve) kids bowl for free for 30 minutes in the mornings. For more on what's happening at BrewDog Waterloo, including details on their New Year's Eve party and other tasty offers, head here.
When's it open?
Open daily. Closed 24-26 Dec.
Passyunk Play
Part of Leake Street's famous all-American dive bar Passyunk Avenue, Passyunk Play is an adjoining bar that is entirely dedicated to American bar sports. If you're a fan of games like pool, darts, air hockey or shuffleboard this is a brilliant place to pass the time. Many of the games are pay-as-you-go, with the option to also book a slot for the darts or shuffleboard. Other games on offer include American classics such as Cornhole and basketball, and there's even a baseball batting cage.
Drinking & dining
Book a table for a festive afternoon tea
The perfect way to treat yourself this season is to book a table for a festive afternoon tea. In South Bank afternoon tea is served daily at The Library at the Marriott County Hall where you are treated to the most superb views of Big Ben. The festive afternoon tea is available until 5 January and comes with extra festive treats including Christmas scones, traditional mince pies and gingerbreads.
When's it open?
Afternoon tea at The Library is available daily 12pm-5pm (booking essential)
South Bank's bar and restaurants during 'Twixmas'
The majority of South Bank's bars and restaurants remain open throughout the festive season with most only closing on Christmas Day (and in some cases on Boxing Day).
Some pubs and restaurants in South Bank such as the glam Skylon restaurant at Royal Festival Hall or the distinctive Doggetts pub next to Blackfriars Station, do stay open with adjusted hours on Christmas Day, although prior booking for a Christmas Day lunch is required!
South Bank's many hotels such as the Marriott County Hall, Sea Containers London, Bankside and the two Park Plaza hotels are, of course, also always open, although if you'd like a table for dinner or drinks during the 'twixmas' period it is highly recommended to book in advance.
During the festive season South Bank plays host to some of the biggest family-oriented stage shows in town and when it comes to family-friendly plays to eat out visitors are spoiled for choice! Check out our guide to kid-friendly dining in South Bank here.
When do South Bank's Winter Markets close?
The Southbank Centre's festive riverside Winter Market closes for the season on Sun 4 Jan 2026. Note the market is also closed on 25, 31 Dec and 1 Jan.
The last edition of the Southbank Centre Food Market behind Royal Festival Hall takes place on Sun 21 Dec, and the market reopens after its winter break on 11 Jan 2026.
Between the Bridges hosts its last day of the season on Mon 22 Dec, closing out its winter residency with a huge poptastic Christmas party.
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