Classical and Christmas Carol Concerts in London

Festive Concerts in London

London's major concert venues all stage performances at Christmas. Many feature world-famous singers and orchestras as well as family-friendly, sing-along shows. 

Beautiful historic houses and churches in London also have a wide range of recitals to lift the spirits and put everyone in a festive mood.

St Martin-in-the-Fields Christmas Programme

St Martin-in-the-Fields is a beautiful 18th-century church with an extensive Christmas programme throughout December, including Advent Carols by Candlelight with the London Concert Choir, and Family Advent Carols. 

You can also enjoy a mince pie or glass of mulled wine in the church's Cafe in the Crypt.

Full Christmas programme on the St Martin-in-the-fields website

The Royal Albert Hall at Christmas

The Royal Albert Hall always stages a number of popular shows at Christmas. This spectacular venue makes the performances extra special. Highlights include:

• John Rutter's Christmas Celebration, 12 Dec
  Carol singalong and concert hosted by John Rutter and featuring the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
• Christmas Carol Singalong, 13 Dec
  All your favourite carols and songs, plus the London Concert Orchestra
• The BT Christmas Concert, 15 Dec
  Angela Rippon hosts an evening of classical music, carols and an indoor fireworks finale

St Paul's Cathedral Concerts

There aren't many more spectacular venues than St Paul's Cathedral to enjoy a Christmas concert. There are many which are open to the public, and some are free, but be prepared to queue! Check whether events are ticketed in advance:

• Messiah by Georg Frederick Handel, supported by Fidelity International, 3 Dec
• Breast Cancer Carols, 9 Dec
  Celebrity readings and singing from professional choirs, plus G4's Jonathan Ansell. Raising money for Breast Cancer Car
• Christmas Eve Carol Service, 24 Dec

St Paul's website for more information

Barbican Christmas

The Barbican boasts a varied line-up of Christmas concerts this year, including:

• Make the Yuletide Gay, 19 Dec
  Old and modern Christmas songs performed by the Gay Men's Chorus and presented by Sandie Shaw
• Christmas with Hayley Westonra, 21 Dec
  Performing best-loved carols and songs
• Brenda Edwards' Gospel Christmas, 22 Dec
  Gospel and soul magic with Brenda's powerful vocals

Carols by Candlelight at WWT London Wetland Centre

Celebrate Christmas with a traditional service in the London Wetland Centre's courtyard. 

Carols by Candlelight features traditional carols, reading and prayers. Entrance is free after 6pm, for a 6.45pm start. Remember to wrap up warm!

Christmas Line-up at Cadogan Hall

Cadogan Hall has a famous Christmas programme - make sure you catch a concert at this festive venue:

• Lesley Garrett Christmas Gala, 13 Dec
  The popular soprano presents a night of popular Christmas songs
• Christmas Cracker, 17 Dec
  Christmas favourite featuring classical music from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as well as sing-along carols 
• A Portrait of Christmas, 21 Dec
  King's Singers and Salvation Army Hendon Band play music to remind us of the real meaning of Christmas

Southwark Cathedral

• Crisis Carol Service, 12 Dec
  Annual service with readings, performances and singing from the Thames Philharmonic Choir at Southwark Cathedral. Tickets free but register in advance
• Hendel's Messiah and Carols, 18 Dec
  Beautiful candle-lit concert. Ticketed.
• Cathedral Carol Services, 20 and 22 Dec
  Carols and readings.These services are not designed for children.

Southwark Cathedral website for full Christmas programme

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