f you wish to expertise one of the best of Christmas magic, lights, decor, and sheer vacation spirit, you completely want to move to London at Christmas! From bustling markets to jaw-dropping vacation lights, London pulls out all of the stops, making each nook of town appear like it stepped out of a vacation card.
I have been to Christmas in London many, many instances and it is all the time a sight to behold! On this information, I am going to share the finest locations for Christmas in London for 2024 in addition to a full itinerary to your Christmas in London journey!
I wandered round with my jaw dropped for days, in awe of all of the festive touches and indulgent shows. For those who’re prepared to absorb the season, listed here are one of the best locations for Christmas in London. Seize a glass of wine (you’ll really feel such as you’re strolling these streets with me!), and prepare to plan the vacation journey of your goals.
One thing to notice: I like Christmas in London, however the markets are missing compared to Germany or France. For a real Christmas Market expertise, try my full guides right here.
Dates For Christmas in London
London yearly “switches the lights on” in early November annually. For the 2024 Christmas season Oxford goes first, on November fifth, 2024. Regent Road with the angels occurs on November seventh, 2024 in addition to Carnaby road. Covent Backyard is November 12, 2024. Marylebone village Christmas lights begin November thirteenth, 2024. The Previous Spitalfields Christmas lights begin on November thirteenth, 2024. Each the Shard and Leadenhall Market are November 14, 2024. Chelsea Christmas Lights swap on November 16, 2024. Belgravia in London switches on November seventeenth. The final bit is the Trafalgar Christmas tree is December fifth, 2024.
Finest Locations for Christmas in London
Regent Road: Angels
The ICONIC angels are considered one of my all time favourite Christmas gentle shows on the earth. They’re so stunning. They’re known as the “Spirit of Chrsitmas” Angels. However the custom is much more iconic!!!
The custom of “switching on Christmas lights” started on regent road in 1954 to draw buyer after the battle. Oxford road adopted in 1959 and others did too!
Christmas candles had been used to embellish houses in Germany first and the custom unfold. Then, in 1882, Thomas Edison’s accomplice Edward H. Johnson hand wired coloured electrical bulbs in a string to embellish his Christmas tree, however electrical Christmas lights didn’t change into reasonably priced to the general public till the Twenties.
Again in Britain, London’s famend division retailer Selfridge’s placed on a lighted Christmas show as early as 1935. In 1954, Christmas lights went up alongside the size of Regent Road for the primary time, and a practice was born!
Be aware, it could possibly get VERY crowded. An effective way to see them from above is to take a VERY low-cost bus trip! Take the 139 in direction of Waterloo!
2024 dates for Regent Road in London for Christmas: November 7, 2024!
Oxford Road: The Final Christmas Mild Present
For traditional London Christmas lights, Oxford Road is a must-see. You’ll discover twinkling paper lanterns floating above the road, casting a gorgeous glow by day and glowing even brighter at evening. I walked up and down this road too many instances to depend, simply attempting to seize all of it! These shows are the proper mixture of cheerful and stylish, and annually brings a brand new theme. The close by streets like Regent Road and Bond Road additionally go all out, with every part from angel lights to wreaths that gentle up the evening.
Oxford Road London Christmas 2024 dates: November fifth.
Bond Road
Close by Bond Road is the epitome of festive glamour, with dazzling vacation shows in luxurious boutiques and alongside the long-lasting storefronts. Through the Christmas season, Bond Road is adorned with elegant garlands, twinkling lights, and opulent decorations that make it really feel as festive as it’s luxurious.
Covent Backyard
Covent Backyard is all the time a deal with, however throughout Christmas, it’s on one other stage. Your complete sq. is reworked right into a wonderland, from the big Christmas tree to the INSANE silver ornaments that make the entire space really feel like a vacation film set. Stroll round and discover the unimaginable lights, garlands, and decorations that cowl each store, restaurant, and archway. Don’t miss the floral Christmas shows, which change yearly and produce a contemporary tackle conventional vacation decor. Seize a festive sizzling chocolate and take all of it in – that is London’s vacation spirit at its best.
Covent Backyard London Christmas 2024 dates: November twelfth.
The Iconic Harrods and Selfridges Window Shows
A visit to Harrods and Selfridges throughout Christmas is non-negotiable. Harrods’ complete exterior is printed with traditional vacation lights, turning the constructing itself into a vacation masterpiece. Inside, you’ll discover much more festive decor within the well-known Harrods meals halls, plus their particular Christmas presents and vacation meals. Only a brief stroll away, Selfridges all the time has the quirkiest, most creative vacation window shows, from a glittering Santa to whimsical winter scenes. Plan to spend a while right here – you’ll wish to seize each single show.
The Churchill Arms: London’s Most Festive Pub
The Churchill Arms in Kensington isn’t only a pub; it’s a vacation expertise. Identified for its famously elaborate decorations, The Churchill Arms covers each inch of its facade in festive cheer, from garlands to baubles to twinkling lights. Seize a pint and snap an image as a result of this pub doesn’t maintain again on vacation spirit – it’s like strolling into Christmas itself.
Fortnum & Mason: A Christmas Wonderland
Fortnum & Mason is an absolute should throughout the vacation season. Identified for its stunning decorations and iconic hampers, this historic retailer turns into a Christmas wonderland in December. Each ground is stuffed with festive goodies, from handmade ornaments to seasonal treats and presents. The well-known window shows are a real murals, celebrating the vacation season with intricate particulars and wealthy colours that draw crowds yearly.
The Tower of London and Tower Bridge
There’s nothing fairly like seeing Tower Bridge lit up throughout Christmas or the close by Tower of London with its fairly little ice-skating rink set in opposition to a historic backdrop. Whether or not you’re skating or simply watching the twinkling lights round you, the magic of London’s Christmas appeal is throughout. For those who’re fortunate, you would possibly even catch a gorgeous sundown reflecting on the Thames, including much more sparkle to the surroundings.
The Royal Arcades: Christmas Luxe at its Finest
London’s Royal Arcades are beautiful year-round, however throughout Christmas, they’re on a distinct stage. With garlands, lights, and embellished storefronts, The Burlington Arcade and Royal Arcade are each decked out for the season. You’ll discover iconic manufacturers, small boutiques, and among the metropolis’s most luxurious decorations. And should you’re after that traditional English vacation spirit, the Arcades are the place to be – each element is completely festive and chic.
Annabelle’s
Christmas at The Ritz and Claridge’s
For luxurious Christmas decor, head to The Ritz and Claridge’s in Mayfair. Each inns are recognized for his or her unimaginable vacation shows, from fantastically embellished Christmas bushes to grand seasonal preparations that look straight out of a storybook. Whether or not you’re splurging on afternoon tea or simply admiring the decor, these are a few of London’s most dazzling vacation spots. Every year, Claridge’s groups up with a well-known designer to create a one-of-a-kind Christmas tree, so don’t miss it should you love a contact of opulence.
Carnaby Road: London’s Most Artistic Vacation Lights
Carnaby Road by no means disappoints with its quirky, colourful tackle Christmas lights. Every year brings a distinct, imaginative theme, from outsized mistletoe to vibrant neon indicators celebrating peace and love. Strolling down Carnaby throughout Christmas appears like stepping right into a pop-art vacation wonderland. With its distinctive boutiques and enjoyable decorations, Carnaby is an ideal spot for images and purchasing for eclectic, one-of-a-kind presents.
King’s Cross/ St Pancras
King’s Cross does Christmas with its personal trendy twist, that includes seasonal markets, pop-up outlets, and among the coolest up to date decorations in London. Coal Drops Yard is the guts of the vacation motion, the place you’ll discover a distinctive Christmas tree set up and loads of quirky vacation occasions and purchasing choices. Seize a sizzling drink and discover the vigorous, festive scene, which contrasts fantastically with the historic structure across the station. St Pancras all the time does a show contained in the station which is exclusive and wonderful!
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
I’m going to inform y’all… Christmas in Hyde Park is a bit tacky. However it’s enjoyable! Think about a large fairground full of vacation markets, ice skating, rides, and limitless meals stalls serving every part from mulled wine to churros. It’s the most effective locations to absorb festive enjoyable in London. For those who’re on the lookout for the last word London Christmas expertise, a go to here’s a should. It will possibly get crowded, so go early if you wish to benefit from the house earlier than the night crowds.
Belgravia: A Hidden Gem of Christmas Decor
For an enthralling neighborhood expertise, head to Belgravia. Identified for its stunning townhouses and boutique outlets, Belgravia goes all out for Christmas. Elizabeth Road, particularly, is lined with festive storefronts and vacation shows, whereas cafes and eating places create cozy, welcoming areas with twinkling lights and garlands. It’s a bit off the crushed path however effectively definitely worth the journey for individuals who wish to see a extra intimate aspect of London’s vacation decor.
Southbank Centre Winter Market: Riverside Christmas Appeal
For a riverside Christmas expertise, the Southbank Centre Winter Market is a must-visit. With its picket chalets, festive meals, and breathtaking views of the Thames, this market has a fascinating ambiance. The market options all kinds of meals stalls, promoting every part from bratwurst to churros, and has cozy hearth pits the place you may heat up whereas having fun with a mulled wine. It’s a gorgeous spot for a vacation stroll with the gorgeous backdrop of the London skyline.
Trafalgar Sq. Christmas Market: London’s Iconic Vacation Gathering Spot
Within the coronary heart of town, Trafalgar Sq. transforms right into a festive haven with its personal charming Christmas market. This iconic location hosts a fantastically embellished Christmas tree, a present from Norway to London annually since 1947, symbolizing friendship and unity. Surrounding the tree, you’ll discover stalls brimming with artisan presents, handmade ornaments, and scrumptious treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Choirs usually carry out carols right here, including to the festive ambiance, and the entire space sparkles with lights that completely complement the majestic Nationwide Gallery backdrop. For those who’re in central London, Trafalgar Sq. is a must-see for a real style of town’s vacation spirit.
Liberty London: Christmas Class Meets English Appeal
Liberty London is an iconic spot year-round, nevertheless it takes on a particular magic throughout Christmas. The historic Tudor-style constructing is adorned with a Christmas show on the entrance, whereas the within is stuffed with fantastically curated vacation decor and presents. Liberty’s Christmas store is a spotlight, that includes distinctive ornaments, handmade wreaths, and loads of British vacation appeal. The within all the time has a cool show!
Annabel’s London: Extravagant Christmas Decor Like No Different
Annabel’s personal members membership in Mayfair transforms into an over-the-top festive fantasy every Christmas, with decorations which can be something however extraordinary. From huge nutcrackers and glowing garlands to grand entrances designed to wow, the outside alone is value a go to to admire the spectacle. Though Annabel’s is unique to members, the lavish vacation shows may be loved from outdoors, making it one of the vital glamorous and festive stops in Mayfair.
Christmas at Kew Gardens: A Festive Botanical Spectacle
One of the vital magical Christmas experiences in London is Christmas at Kew Gardens. This annual occasion transforms Kew’s gorgeous gardens right into a wonderland of lights, with immersive gentle shows, sculptures, and a glittering tunnel of lights. Stroll alongside the mile-long illuminated path via the gardens and revel in seasonal treats alongside the way in which. It’s a panoramic expertise that mixes pure magnificence with vacation magic, making it excellent for households, {couples}, and anybody who loves the festive season.
Different Should-See Spots: Cartier, York Road, and Kensington Palace
Round London, you’ll discover much more magical vacation decor, from Cartier’s storefront to the candlelit tree at Kensington Palace. A stroll down York Road in Marylebone reveals beautiful vacation shows in traditional townhouses, particularly should you’re on the lookout for that cozy, neighborhood appeal. And belief me, should you’re a fan of festive decor, your digital camera roll goes to be FULL.
Christmas in London Itinerary
Here is a video itinerary for London at Christmas, however I am going to share extra particulars beneath!
In case you have simply in the future to expertise Christmas in London, right here’s an ideal itinerary to benefit from town’s festive sights.
Begin in Covent Backyard to see the decorations and benefit from the vacation cheer. Covent Backyard is particularly magical within the daytime, with its festive stalls and dazzling Christmas tree. From there, head to Borough Market for a chew of seasonal treats and to soak up the colourful market ambiance. Subsequent, make your approach over to Tower Bridge for a scenic stroll with views of the Thames, and, if time permits, go to the close by Tower of London for some historic vacation appeal.
Because the afternoon begins to fade, head to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for vacation rides, market stalls, and loads of festive food and drinks. From there, stroll via Mayfair to admire the dazzling shows outdoors Annabel’s and different fantastically embellished storefronts. Lastly, make your technique to Bond Road and Regent Road for the last word nighttime Christmas lights expertise. Stroll below the twinkling lights, benefit from the glowing window shows, and soak within the festive magic as you finish your excellent day in Christmas-lit London.
In case you have extra time to discover London’s Christmas magic, there’s much more to take pleasure in! Begin by spending a bit of longer in Covent Backyard to browse the outlets or take pleasure in a comfy espresso at one of many close by cafes. Then head to Kew Gardens for the enchanting Christmas at Kew gentle path—a mile-long path of gorgeous illuminated installations in a panoramic botanical setting.
It’s also possible to make your technique to Southbank Centre Winter Market for a riverside vacation expertise with cozy meals stalls, distinctive artisan presents, and picturesque views alongside the Thames. Don’t miss the prospect to go to Trafalgar Sq. to see the well-known Christmas tree and revel in carolers singing below the celebrities. Lastly, finish the evening by exploring Belgravia or King’s Cross, each recognized for his or her elegant shows and comfy vacation appeal, excellent for rounding out a multi-day Christmas tour in London.
Christmas Markets in London
Whereas London’s Christmas markets could not have fairly the old-world appeal and scale of these in France or Germany, they’re festive and distinctive in their very own approach, including an additional sparkle to town’s vacation season. Listed here are the highest Christmas markets in London for 2024, full with dates:
- Southbank Centre Winter Market (my private favourite)
- Stroll alongside the Thames because the Southbank transforms right into a winter wonderland of world delicacies and crafts. Dates: Nov 1 – Dec 26
- Battersea Christmas Market
- With a skating rink and small market you will discover a number of nice picture opportunties! Dates: November 8, 2024 – January fifth 2024.
- Covent Backyard Christmas Markets
- Benefit from the glowing lights and festive decor whereas searching for presents in considered one of London’s most magical spots. From Nov 12
- Leicester Sq. Christmas Market
- Discover festive stalls and benefit from the Belgian Spiegeltent’s vacation reveals within the coronary heart of Leicester Sq.. From Nov 6
- Trafalgar Sq. Christmas Market
- Sip sizzling chocolate and browse picket chalets whereas carolers sing below London’s iconic Christmas tree. Dates TBC
- Winter by the River at London Bridge Metropolis
- Soak in views of Tower Bridge whereas searching for presents and sampling festive meals. Dates: Nov 14 – Jan 5
- Spitalfields Christmas Market
- Discover distinctive presents amongst meals stalls, jewellery, and artwork within the stylish Spitalfields space. From Nov 13
- Greenwich Christmas Market
- Tick off your purchasing record whereas exploring Greenwich’s historic and festively lit market. From Nov 20
- Kingston Christmas Market
- Head to the riverside city of Kingston for handmade presents, vacation treats, and comfy cabins. Dates: Nov 14 – Jan 5
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
- London’s greatest Christmas market with presents, rides, and the UK’s largest out of doors ice rink. Dates: Nov 21 – Jan 5
- King’s Cross Christmas Markets
- Take pleasure in reside music and festive treats whereas exploring King’s Cross’s eclectic vacation markets. Dates TBC
- Borough Market at Christmas
- Uncover seasonal meals and festive decor below the historic arches of Borough Market. Dates TBC
Whereas these markets could not transport you to a fairytale-like German village, they every deliver a bit of vacation magic to London, making town come alive with festive cheer throughout the Christmas season.
Issues to Do in London At Christmas
In addition to seeing the lights, there are many issues to do in London at Christmas! My high tip is to go see a play. London theater is one of the best on the earth. You may see one thing traditional like Mamma Mia or Mary Poppins, or you may see a Christmas-themed present! We noticed Elf final 12 months!
Go ice skating! My favourite is at Somerset home! However you too can go to Hampton Courtroom Palace. Sadly, the one outdoors of the Museum of Pure Historical past is now not. However that brings me to my subsequent level.
Go to a museum! Museums in London are sometimes free! And there are such a lot of great museums.
Go to a meals market! I personally love Seven Dials and so they all the time add a festive contact. There’s additionally a rotating cheese board in order that’s enjoyable.
Simply stroll round! London at Christmas is so festive, it is really easy to come across one thing magical!
London at Christmas is solely unmatched. From the bustling streets of Oxford Road to the comfortable pubs and grand inns, each a part of town is drenched in vacation spirit. So should you’re trying to get into the Christmas temper, London is the place to be. Go, take all of it in, and put together to be amazed – I promise you’ll go away with a digital camera stuffed with images and a coronary heart stuffed with vacation cheer!
