If you wish to expertise the very best of Christmas magic, lights, decor, and sheer vacation spirit, you completely want to go to London at Christmas! From bustling markets to jaw-dropping vacation lights, London pulls out all of the stops, making each nook of the town appear like it stepped out of a vacation card.
I have been to Christmas in London many, many occasions and it is all the time a sight to behold! On this information, I am going to share the greatest 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 lavish shows. For those who’re prepared to take in the season, listed below are the very 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 desires.
One thing to notice: I am keen on 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.
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Dates For Christmas in London
London yearly “switches the lights on” in early November every year. For the 2024 Christmas season Oxford goes first, on November fifth, 2024. Regent Avenue with the angels occurs on November seventh, 2024 in addition to Carnaby avenue. Covent Backyard is November 12, 2024. Marylebone village Christmas lights begin November thirteenth, 2024. The Outdated Spitalfields Christmas lights begin on November thirteenth, 2024. Each the Shard and Leadenhall Market are November 14, 2024. Chelsea Christmas Lights change 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 Avenue: Angels
The ICONIC angels are one in every of my all time favourite Christmas mild shows on this planet. They’re so stunning. They’re referred to as the “Spirit of Chrsitmas” Angels. However the custom is much more iconic!!!
The custom of “switching on Christmas lights” started on regent avenue in 1954 to draw buyer after the battle. Oxford avenue 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 companion Edward H. Johnson hand wired coloured electrical bulbs in a string to embellish his Christmas tree, however electrical Christmas lights didn’t develop into inexpensive to the general public till the Nineteen 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 Avenue for the primary time, and a convention was born!
Word, it could 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 Avenue in London for Christmas: November 7, 2024!
Oxford Avenue: The Final Christmas Mild Present
For traditional London Christmas lights, Oxford Avenue is a must-see. You’ll discover twinkling paper lanterns floating above the road, casting a fantastic glow by day and glowing even brighter at evening. I walked up and down this avenue too many occasions to rely, simply making an attempt to seize all of it! These shows are the right mixture of cheerful and stylish, and every year brings a brand new theme. The close by streets like Regent Avenue and Bond Avenue additionally go all out, with all the pieces from angel lights to wreaths that mild up the evening.
Oxford Avenue London Christmas 2024 dates: November fifth.
Bond Avenue
Close by Bond Avenue is the epitome of festive glamour, with dazzling vacation shows in luxurious boutiques and alongside the long-lasting storefronts. In the course of the Christmas season, Bond Avenue 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 degree. Your entire 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 convey a recent tackle conventional vacation decor. Seize a festive scorching chocolate and take all of it in – that is London’s vacation spirit at its most interesting.
Covent Backyard London Christmas 2024 dates: November twelfth.
It snows each hour on the hour in December in Covent Backyard!
The Iconic Harrods and Selfridges Window Shows
A visit to Harrods and Selfridges throughout Christmas is non-negotiable. Harrods’ total 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 items and vacation meals. Only a quick stroll away, Selfridges all the time has the quirkiest, most ingenious 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. Recognized 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 in the course of the vacation season. Recognized for its stunning decorations and iconic hampers, this historic retailer turns into a Christmas wonderland in December. Each flooring is crammed with festive goodies, from handmade ornaments to seasonal treats and items. 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 attraction is throughout. For those who’re fortunate, you would possibly even catch a fantastic 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 unique degree. With garlands, lights, and adorned 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 motels are recognized for his or her unimaginable vacation shows, from fantastically adorned Christmas timber 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. Annually, 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 Avenue: London’s Most Inventive Vacation Lights
Carnaby Avenue by no means disappoints with its quirky, colourful tackle Christmas lights. Annually brings a unique, imaginative theme, from outsized mistletoe to vibrant neon indicators celebrating peace and love. Strolling down Carnaby throughout Christmas looks like stepping right into a pop-art vacation wonderland. With its distinctive boutiques and enjoyable decorations, Carnaby is an ideal spot for pictures and purchasing for eclectic, one-of-a-kind items.
King’s Cross/ St Pancras
King’s Cross does Christmas with its personal fashionable twist, that includes seasonal markets, pop-up outlets, and among the coolest modern 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 scorching 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. Nevertheless it’s enjoyable! Think about a large fairground full of vacation markets, ice skating, rides, and infinite meals stalls serving all the pieces from mulled wine to churros. It’s the most effective locations to take in festive enjoyable in London. For those who’re searching for the final word London Christmas expertise, a go to here’s a should. It might probably 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. Recognized for its stunning townhouses and boutique outlets, Belgravia goes all out for Christmas. Elizabeth Avenue, 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 overwhelmed path however properly well worth the journey for many who wish to see a extra intimate facet 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 wood chalets, festive meals, and breathtaking views of the Thames, this market has a fascinating ambiance. The market options all kinds of meals stalls, promoting all the pieces from bratwurst to churros, and has cozy fireplace pits the place you possibly can heat up whereas having fun with a mulled wine. It’s a fantastic 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 the town, Trafalgar Sq. transforms right into a festive haven with its personal charming Christmas market. This iconic location hosts a fantastically adorned Christmas tree, a present from Norway to London every year since 1947, symbolizing friendship and unity. Surrounding the tree, you’ll discover stalls brimming with artisan items, handmade ornaments, and scrumptious treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Choirs typically 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 the town’s vacation spirit.
Liberty London: Christmas Class Meets English Appeal
Liberty London is an iconic spot year-round, however 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 crammed with fantastically curated vacation decor and items. Liberty’s Christmas store is a spotlight, that includes distinctive ornaments, handmade wreaths, and loads of British vacation attraction. 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 are something however extraordinary. From large nutcrackers and glowing garlands to grand entrances designed to wow, the outside alone is price a go to to admire the spectacle. Though Annabel’s is unique to members, the lavish vacation shows might be loved from exterior, making it one of the glamorous and festive stops in Mayfair.
Christmas at Kew Gardens: A Festive Botanical Spectacle
One of the 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 mild shows, sculptures, and a glittering tunnel of lights. Stroll alongside the mile-long illuminated path by the gardens and luxuriate in seasonal treats alongside the way in which. It’s a wide ranging expertise that mixes pure magnificence with vacation magic, making it good for households, {couples}, and anybody who loves the festive season.
Different Should-See Spots: Cartier, York Avenue, 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 Avenue in Marylebone reveals beautiful vacation shows in traditional townhouses, particularly should you’re searching for that cozy, neighborhood attraction. 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!
If in case you have simply in the future to expertise Christmas in London, right here’s an ideal itinerary to profit from the town’s festive sights.
I made you a map that follows a brief 4 mile loop route!
Begin in Covent Backyard to see the decorations and benefit from the vacation cheer. Covent Backyard is very magical within the daytime, with its festive stalls and dazzling Christmas tree. From there, head to Borough Market for a chunk of seasonal treats and to soak up the colourful market ambiance. Subsequent, make your means 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 attraction.
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 by Mayfair to admire the dazzling shows exterior Annabel’s and different fantastically adorned storefronts. Lastly, make your technique to Bond Avenue and Regent Avenue for the final 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 good day in Christmas-lit London.
In fact, you will need to go to Harrods for the beautiful show!
If in case you have extra time to discover London’s Christmas magic, there’s much more to take pleasure in! Begin by spending a little bit 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 mild path—a mile-long path of gorgeous illuminated installations in a wide ranging botanical setting.
You may as well make your technique to Southbank Centre Winter Market for a riverside vacation expertise with cozy meals stalls, distinctive artisan items, and picturesque views alongside the Thames. Don’t miss the possibility to go to Trafalgar Sq. to see the well-known Christmas tree and luxuriate in carolers singing below the celebs. Lastly, finish the evening by exploring Belgravia or King’s Cross, each recognized for his or her elegant shows and comfy vacation attraction, good 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 attraction and scale of these in France or Germany, they’re festive and distinctive in their very own means, including an additional sparkle to the town’s vacation season. Listed below 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 worldwide delicacies and crafts. Dates: Nov 1 – Dec 26
- Battersea Christmas Market
- With a skating rink and small market you could find a number of nice photograph opportunties! Dates: November 8, 2024 – January fifth 2024.
- Covent Backyard Christmas Markets
- Benefit from the glowing lights and festive decor whereas looking for items in one in every of London’s most magical spots. From Nov 12
- Leicester Sq. Christmas Market
- Discover festive stalls and benefit from the Belgian Spiegeltent’s vacation exhibits within the coronary heart of Leicester Sq.. From Nov 6
- Trafalgar Sq. Christmas Market
- Sip scorching chocolate and browse wood 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 looking for items and sampling festive meals. Dates: Nov 14 – Jan 5
- Spitalfields Christmas Market
- Discover distinctive items amongst meals stalls, jewellery, and artwork within the fashionable Spitalfields space. From Nov 13
- Greenwich Christmas Market
- Tick off your purchasing listing whereas exploring Greenwich’s historic and festively lit market. From Nov 20
- Kingston Christmas Market
- Head to the riverside city of Kingston for handmade items, vacation treats, and comfy cabins. Dates: Nov 14 – Jan 5
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
- London’s largest Christmas market with items, 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 the town come alive with festive cheer in the course of the Christmas season.
Issues to Do in London At Christmas
Moreover seeing the lights, there are many issues to do in London at Christmas! My prime tip is to go see a play. London theater is the very best on this planet. You’ll be able to see one thing traditional like Mamma Mia or Mary Poppins, or you possibly can 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 Court docket Palace. Sadly, the one exterior of the Museum of Pure Historical past is 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 they usually 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!
Resort Suggestions
I personally like staying in Covent Backyard since you’re really within the coronary heart of London. Plus you can stroll to many places and capable of stroll to the theater!
One Aldwych (Covent Backyard) $$$$
For an expensive keep, One Aldwych affords fashionable rooms and distinctive service within the coronary heart of Covent Backyard. Visitors can take pleasure in a refreshing swim within the chlorine-free pool, calm down within the on-site spa, and indulge at their award-winning restaurant. Its central location places you simply steps away from theaters, purchasing, and the festive buzz of Covent Backyard.
Strand Palace (Covent Backyard) $$$
With over a century of hospitality, the Strand Palace blends fashionable consolation with historic attraction. Positioned simply minutes from Covent Backyard and the Thames, the resort affords modern rooms and glorious eating choices, making it good for exploring London’s cultural landmarks.
Z Resort Covent Backyard (Finances Choice) $$
An incredible budget-friendly selection, Z Resort in Covent Backyard supplies clear, snug rooms at an inexpensive worth. It’s a really perfect base for exploring London’s West Finish, with sights, eating places, and transport hyperlinks proper in your doorstep.
Outdoors Covent Backyard: The Hoxton, Holborn $$$
Positioned a brief stroll from Covent Backyard, The Hoxton, Holborn is a classy possibility providing fashionable rooms, a buzzing foyer bar, and glorious eating. This boutique resort combines consolation and funky, with quick access to each the West Finish and vibrant Holborn space.
London at Christmas is just unmatched. From the bustling streets of Oxford Avenue to the comfy pubs and grand motels, each a part of the 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 depart with a digital camera filled with pictures and a coronary heart filled with vacation cheer!
