If you wish to expertise the very 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 seem like it stepped out of a vacation card.
I have been to Christmas in London many, many occasions and it is at all times 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 on 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. If you happen to’re prepared to absorb the season, listed here 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 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.
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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 Previous 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.
Greatest Locations for Christmas in London
Regent Avenue: Angels
The ICONIC angels are one among my all time favourite Christmas mild shows on this planet. 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 avenue in 1954 to draw buyer after the battle. Oxford avenue adopted in 1959 and others did too!
Christmas candles had been used to brighten 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 brighten his Christmas tree, however electrical Christmas lights didn’t change into reasonably priced 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 practice was born!
Notice, it will probably 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 Gentle Present
For traditional London Christmas lights, Oxford Avenue is a must-see. You’ll discover twinkling paper lanterns floating above the road, casting a wonderful glow by day and glowing even brighter at evening. I walked up and down this avenue too many occasions to rely, simply attempting to seize all of it! These shows are the proper 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. Throughout 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 at all times a deal with, however throughout Christmas, it’s on one other stage. All the 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 unbelievable lights, garlands, and decorations that cowl each store, restaurant, and archway. Don’t miss the floral Christmas shows, which change yearly and produce a recent tackle conventional vacation decor. Seize a festive sizzling 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’ 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 items and vacation meals. Only a brief stroll away, Selfridges at all times 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 need 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 through 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 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 appeal is throughout. If you happen to’re fortunate, you would possibly even catch a wonderful sundown reflecting on the Thames, including much more sparkle to the surroundings.
The Royal Arcades: Christmas Luxe at its Greatest
London’s Royal Arcades are attractive year-round, however throughout Christmas, they’re on a special 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 in case 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 resorts are identified for his or her unbelievable vacation shows, from superbly 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 in case 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. Every year brings a special, 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 photographs and purchasing for eclectic, one-of-a-kind items.
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 energetic, festive scene, which contrasts superbly with the historic structure across the station. St Pancras at all times 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 filled with vacation markets, ice skating, rides, and infinite meals stalls serving all the pieces from mulled wine to churros. It’s top-of-the-line locations to absorb festive enjoyable in London. If you happen to’re on the lookout for the final word London Christmas expertise, a go to here’s a should. It could 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 a captivating neighborhood expertise, head to Belgravia. Identified for its stunning townhouses and boutique outlets, Belgravia goes all out for Christmas. Elizabeth Avenue, specifically, 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 individuals who need to see a extra intimate aspect of London’s vacation decor.
Southbank Centre Winter Market: Riverside Christmas Allure
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 hearth pits the place you possibly can heat up whereas having fun with a mulled wine. It’s a wonderful 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 superbly embellished 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 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. If you happen to’re in central London, Trafalgar Sq. is a must-see for a real style of town’s vacation spirit.
Liberty London: Christmas Magnificence Meets English Allure
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 stuffed with superbly curated vacation decor and items. Liberty’s Christmas store is a spotlight, that includes distinctive ornaments, handmade wreaths, and loads of British vacation appeal. The within at all times 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 might be something however bizarre. 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 will be loved from outdoors, making it one of the glamorous and festive stops in Mayfair.
Christmas at Kew Gardens: A Festive Botanical Spectacle
One of the crucial 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 means of the gardens and revel 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 attractive vacation shows in traditional townhouses, particularly in case you’re on the lookout for that cozy, neighborhood appeal. And belief me, in case you’re a fan of festive decor, your digicam 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 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 particularly 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 absorb the colourful market ambiance. Subsequent, make your manner 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 foods and drinks. From there, stroll by means of Mayfair to admire the dazzling shows outdoors Annabel’s and different superbly embellished storefronts. Lastly, make your technique to Bond Avenue and Regent Avenue for the final word nighttime Christmas lights expertise. Stroll underneath 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 could 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 somewhat 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 can even 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 revel in carolers singing underneath the celebrities. Lastly, finish the evening by exploring Belgravia or King’s Cross, each identified for his or her elegant shows and comfortable vacation appeal, good for rounding out a multi-day Christmas tour in London.
Christmas Markets in London
Whereas London’s Christmas markets might not have fairly the old-world appeal and scale of these in France or Germany, they’re festive and distinctive in their very own manner, including an additional sparkle to 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 plenty of nice picture opportunties! Dates: November 8, 2024 – January fifth 2024.
- Covent Backyard Christmas Markets
- Benefit from the glowing lights and festive decor whereas shopping for items in one among 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 wood chalets whereas carolers sing underneath London’s iconic Christmas tree. Dates TBC
- Winter by the River at London Bridge Metropolis
- Soak in views of Tower Bridge whereas shopping 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 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 items, vacation treats, and comfortable cabins. Dates: Nov 14 – Jan 5
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
- London’s greatest Christmas market with items, rides, and the UK’s largest outside ice rink. Dates: Nov 21 – Jan 5
- King’s Cross Christmas Markets
- Get pleasure from stay 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 underneath the historic arches of Borough Market. Dates TBC
Whereas these markets might not transport you to a fairytale-like German village, they every carry a bit of vacation magic to London, making town come alive with festive cheer through 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 high tip is to go see a play. London theater is the very best on this planet. You possibly can 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 outdoors 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 and so they at all times 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 upon 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) $$$$
For an expensive keep, One Aldwych provides trendy rooms and distinctive service within the coronary heart of Covent Backyard. Company can take pleasure in a refreshing swim within the chlorine-free pool, chill out within the on-site spa, and indulge at their award-winning restaurant. Its central location places you simply steps away from theaters, purchasing, and the festive buzz of Covent Backyard.
Strand Palace (Covent Backyard) $$$
With over a century of hospitality, the Strand Palace blends trendy consolation with historic appeal. Situated simply minutes from Covent Backyard and the Thames, the resort provides up to date rooms and wonderful eating choices, making it good for exploring London’s cultural landmarks.
Z Resort Covent Backyard (Price range Possibility) $$
An excellent budget-friendly alternative, Z Resort in Covent Backyard offers clear, snug rooms at an affordable value. It’s a perfect base for exploring London’s West Finish, with sights, eating places, and transport hyperlinks proper in your doorstep.
Outdoors Covent Backyard: The Hoxton, Holborn $$$
Situated a brief stroll from Covent Backyard, The Hoxton, Holborn is a classy choice providing trendy rooms, a buzzing foyer bar, and wonderful eating. This boutique resort combines consolation and funky, with easy accessibility to each the West Finish and vibrant Holborn space.
London at Christmas is just unmatched. From the bustling streets of Oxford Avenue to the comfortable pubs and grand resorts, each a part of town is drenched in vacation spirit. So in case you’re seeking 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 digicam stuffed with photographs and a coronary heart stuffed with vacation cheer!
