It’s that time of the year again! As Christmas approaches, London is getting ready to dazzle and sparkle in all its festive glory. And what better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by embarking on a magical journey through the enchanting world of Christmas lights? The British capital has a long-standing tradition of turning into a twinkling wonderland during the holiday season, and each year, it seems the city outdoes itself. From grand displays on historic landmarks to charming neighbourhood streets adorned with glittering ornaments, London has something to offer for everyone seeking to bask in the warm glow of Christmas lights.
There are so many different areas to explore, so we’ve created this festive guide to help you plan your very own luminous adventure in London! So, grab your coziest scarf, put on your mittens, and let’s embark on a journey filled with joy, wonder, and, of course, the best Christmas lights in London.
Map of Christmas Lights by Neighbourhood
Tips for Exploring London’s Christmas Lights
Where Can You Find London’s Best Christmas Lights?
The lighting displays are located all over the city. You’ll need to bounce around on the tube to see them all. But my advice is to pick one neighbourhood to explore. I’ve divided this post into different boroughs, so you know which area every display is located. That way, you can find out which areas interest you most.
When do the Lights Turn On?
In November, the lights start to be turned on, and they are kept up until early January. Thankfully, the sun goes down earlier in the winter, so the lights turn on around 5 p.m. This means you have lots of time to explore the illuminated city after the sun sets!
When is the Best Time to See the Lights?
If you want to avoid the huge Christmas crowds, you’re better off planning your trip in November. And be aware that weekends will be much busier than weekdays. I loved going out after dinner on a weeknight to explore the stunning laneways as a perfect nightcap to end a lovely evening.
But personally, I LOVED being right in the centre of London during the week leading up to Christmas. There was such a palpable atmosphere, with people flooding the streets and busy shoppers rushing around to finish getting everything on their Christmas lists. There really isn’t a bad time to come, just expect the crowds.
What to Wear
When venturing out to see the Christmas lights in London, it’s important to dress for the weather. While Winter in London isn’t as cold as other cities around the world, it can still get quite chilly, so dressing appropriately is essential to enjoy your festive outing.
- Layered Clothing: Layering is key to staying warm. Start with a thermal or moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add a warm sweater on top.
- Winter Coat: Invest in a good-quality, insulated winter coat to provide warmth and protection from the cold. A waterproof coat is best to protect against the rain. Look for one with a hood to keep your head warm and dry.
- Hat: A hat or beanie is essential to prevent heat loss from your head.
- Scarf: A thick, woollen scarf can keep your neck warm and be pulled up to cover your face if necessary.
- Gloves: Opt for insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm.
- Thermal Leggings: We had days below zero last year, which is pretty rare for London, but on days like this, you should wear thermal leggings under your pants to add an extra layer of warmth.
- Warm Socks: Invest in warm, moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet cozy. You can even wear two pairs if it’s exceptionally cold.
- Waterproof Boots: Choose waterproof boots with insulation to keep your feet dry and warm. Ensure they have good traction to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.
- Hand and Foot Warmers: For extremely cold nights, consider using disposable hand and foot warmers that can be placed in your gloves and boots for extra warmth.
- Umbrella: London’s winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to carry a compact, windproof umbrella in case of rain or snow.
Covent Garden
Although most people think of Covent Garden as the ever-so-charming marketplace, Covent Garden is actually the name of an entire neighbourhood in West London. The area is bounded to the east and west by the Kingsway and Charing Cross Road. And north-south by Holborn Street and the Strand.
Covent Garden Market Piazza
Start your walk at the old Covent Garden Market. This historic marketplace is steeped in centuries of tradition, but at Christmas time, it is one of the most festive centres in London. The market’s elegant piazza, adorned with neoclassical architecture and lively street performances, is brimming with twinkle lights, Christmas trees, oversized wreaths and the smell of mulled wine emanating throughout the air.
Also, outside the Piazza, you’ll always find some special exhibitions. In years past, there was a special Frozen Christmas Village, and last year, Dolce and Gabanna set up a multicoloured light display that made for awe-inspiring photos!
Apple Market
Covent Garden’s Apple Market dates back to the 17th century when it was a bustling fruit and vegetable market. Today, it houses a crafts and antiques market. Walking inside, you will be overwhelmed by the fantastical giant silver and gold disco ornaments hanging from the ceiling, creating a kaleidoscope of lights reflecting off every surface. Oversized mistletoe chandeliers also dangle above, inviting romantic Christmas kisses.
Covent Garden Christmas Tree
You’ll find the mammoth Covent Garden Christmas tree outside the Apple Market! This Christmas tree is the largest hand-picked tree in all of London. In addition to this, the tree was grown at the same tree farm where the Royal family gets their Christmas trees. So it’s perhaps the poshest tree in London as well! It takes organizers over 300 hours to decorate the tree. And they even used a cherry picker to get those baubles to the top.
The area outside near the Christmas Tree is where visitors can get the chance to see “snow” falling in London. The snow falls every hour on the hour, so arrive accordingly. Sure, it might be fake snow made of soap, but how everyone erupts with delights and how magical it makes the space feel is all that matters!
King Street
King Street, a cobbled gem within the heart of Covent Garden, is a captivating blend of old-world elegance and modern sophistication. The street’s enchanting architecture, characterized by Georgian and Victorian facades adorned with charming bay windows and ornate ironwork, is a testament to London’s architectural heritage. And at Christmas, all the boutiques and artisanal shops go all out with their Christmas light displays.
St. Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s Church is a secret spot inside Covent Garden, affectionately known as The Actors’ Church. It features a modest Christmas light display but is set in the most peaceful setting. Make sure to stop in and look at each of the benches lining the garden pathways dedicated to famous actors from London. St. Paul’s Church Covent Garden is a favourite among Londoners. Famed singer Gwen Stefani was even married to her first husband, Gavin Rossdale, in this church.
Seven Dials
Head north towards the Seven Dials. Seven Dials is a circular junction where seven streets converge, giving the area its distinctive name. It’s one of the liveliest parts of London, and at Christmas, their light displays are so dynamic. The central column is surrounded by starry snow globes.
Along the converging streets are vibrant pink and silver lights hung above the cobblestone streets. I love the modern take on the Christmas lights juxtaposed against the Victorian buildings.
St. Martin’s Courtyard
St. Martin’s Courtyard is hidden away, just off of Long Acre Street in Covent Garden. Walking into the courtyard, you pass under the most incredible oversized holly wreaths covered by bright white twinkle lights. The holly leaves seem to spill onto the street as boughs of garlands wrap around the shop windows.
St. Martin’s Lane
Walking back, take a stroll along Saint Martin’s Lane. Saint Martin’s Lane is where many of the most important theatres are located, making it a hub for entertainment and culture. This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, upscale hotels, and trendy restaurants. The lane is decorated with different Christmas street lights hung above walkways. But all the stylish restaurants in the area go all out with their Christmas displays, adding to the festive environment.
The Strand
Walking south towards the river, you arrive along the famous Strand. This is a historic and prestigious thoroughfare that runs along the northern bank of the River Thames. All along the street, you’ll find famous landmarks and renowned institutions. At Christmas, they hand these beautiful light displays shaped like blue and gold ornaments hanging above the road. One of the best parts of this area is looking at the iconic red double-decker bus driving under the sparkling Christmas lights.
Somerset House
On the south side of the Strand, just beyond Waterloo Bridge, you will find the Neoclassical landmark Somerset House. The Duke of Somerset once owned the property, but today, the building is often used to host events centred around arts and education.
The square is transformed into a giant fairytale-like ice skating rink at Christmas. A massive 40-foot twinkling Christmas tree stands watch over the skaters. At night, the rink is illuminated in multicoloured lights, which create a magical atmosphere and highlight the architectural beauty of the building itself.
Mayfair
The upscale and elegant neighbourhood of Mayfair is known for its luxury boutiques, designer shops, art galleries, and high-end hotels. With so much extravagance throughout the year, you can expect nothing but the best from their Christmas lights and decorations.
Grosvenor Square
Grosvenor Square is one of London’s most prestigious garden squares. It transforms into a festive wonderland with a beautiful Christmas light installation during the Christmas season. The Square is adorned with 20,000 illuminated roses each year, forming a glowing carpet of flowers. Each flower can be purchased as a dedication to a lost loved one. All the money raised from these donations is then given to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Walking through the garden is a beautiful and sombre experience, especially at Christmas; it’s essential to think of those who might be missing someone special.
Annabel’s
Annabel’s is a private members club located inside a gorgeous Georgian mansion across from the historic Berkeley Square. The highly exclusive club was established in 1963 for wealthy members to privately gamble after partying. Everyone from the Queen herself to Olivia Newton-John and Lady Gaga has been deemed important enough to be allowed inside these hallowed gates.
And while you might never have the chance to enter the fairytale-like interior, all can enjoy their out-of-this-world Christmas decorations! Every year, they try to outdo themselves with bigger and better designs. Last year, the entire exterior was transformed into a magical carousel!
Piccadilly Street
From Annabel’s, walk south down to Piccadilly Street. Piccadilly is one of the most iconic streets in London, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was a fashionable hub for London’s elite. At Christmas time, landmarks such as the Ritz Hotel enchant visitors with fantastical lighting displays.
Piccadilly Arcade
Walking east along Piccadilly, be sure to check out Piccadilly Arcade. Piccadilly Arcade is a beautiful neo-classical covered shopping arcade known for its exclusive boutique shops that offer a curated selection of high-end luxury goods. The arcade’s interior is decorated in blue and silver mirrored snowflakes, illuminating the architectural details throughout the arcade.
Burlington Arcade
Hop across the street and into another covered arcade, the Burlington Arcade. This covered shopping street was built in 1819 and featured incredible Regency-era architecture.
As this strip is home to many fine jewelry makers and bespoke tailors, they always decorate their interiors to entertain and amaze their high-end clients. Hanging from the glass roof is a series of giant disco balls and silver and gold baubles sparkling along the length of the arcade.
Bond Street
Just next door to Burlington Arcade is Bond Street. Bond Street is home to some of the most prestigious and expensive shops like Tiffany & Co, Sotheby’s and Bonhams. The Christmas installations along Bond Street are made to look larger-than-life! Framing the entire street, are these twinkling designs made to emulate peacock feathers.
The peacock feathers honour a group called the Bond Street Loungers, who, in 1820, became well-known for their fabulous fashions. They often wore expensive wigs and were seen strutting up and down Bond Street as if they owned it. They were also often called the “peacocks,” and the Christmas lights shine on to commemorate their daring fashions.
Above the intersections are these amazing crowns that incorporate those same peacock designs but so subtly that only those in the know will see them.
Many of the high-end shops on the street go ALL OUT. Cartier, Fenwick, Dior, Stellar McCartney and Ralph Lauren are just some of the incredible shops that spend thousands on decking out this exterior facade for the holidays. Despite being some of London’s most expensive shops, you don’t need to spend a dime to enjoy their beautiful lighting displays.
Regent Street
Make your way along Bond Street towards Brook Street, where you can turn east to Regent Street. Regent Street was designed in the early 19th century by the renowned architect John Nash to symbolize London’s grandeur and world-class urban planning. Regent Street was named after King George, the Prince Regent who reigned over England from 1820 to 1830. The sweeping curve of the street, the ornate facades, and the regal terraces make it a timeless icon of London’s magnificence.
The Regent Street lights are my favourite Christmas light installation. Soaring above the passersby are these giant “spirits” with sparkling wings. Many people refer to these as angels, but they are, in fact, officially called the spirits of Regent Street.
The decorations were inspired by historic Christmas lights displayed initially on Regent Street that featured traditional angels playing trumpets. The illuminations were created with the input of the Crown since Regent Street is owned by the Royal Family, and they must approve everything. The spirits are made up of over 300,000 lights. Their golden 17-meter wingspan reaches across the entire length of the street. Watching over delighted shoppers. The lights glitter and flash, giving the effect of the fluttering wings. Almost as if they could simply take off at any moment.
Liberty of London
Quickly stop inside Liberty London, a luxury department store along historic Great Marlborough Street. The shop opened in 1875 and was immediately one of the most popular spots for high-end Christmas decorations. One of the iconic aspects of the store is the Tudor revival design of the building. Despite being a Tudo style, this was actually designed in 1920.
Every year, Liberty London unveils its festive Christmas window displays. The charming designs attract visitors from all over the city to gaze in awe at the delightful displays. Inside, the smell of balsam and eucalyptus fills the air with scents inspired by fragrant winter forests. Its enormous five-storey atrium is home to a fantastical paper Christmas tree with Christmas lights dangling from the ceiling. It’s a wonderful to behold.
Carnaby
Make your way out the back door of Liberty, where you find yourself immediately in the centre of the fantastical Carnaby Street Christmas Lights. Whereas Regent Street focuses on historical references, Carnaby Street aims to break away from tradition and draws you into a festive wonderland with unique and eye-catching decorations.Carnaby Street gets its name from ‘Karnaby House,’ a large and impressive mansion built here in 1683. The estate was so iconic that people began to refer to the area simply by that name.
Carnaby Street gets its name from ‘Karnaby House,’ a large and impressive mansion built here in 1683. The estate was so iconic that people began to refer to the area simply by that name.
Every year, the colourful streets of Carnaby explore a different theme that inspires their decorations. Everything from Rock and Roll to tropical carnivals and under-the-sea adventures. Last year, instead of creating something new, all the lights and designs from years past were collected to celebrate the history of Carnaby’s creative expression.
Kensington
Churchill Arms
Undoubtedly, the Churchill Arms is the most festive pub in the entire city. They put the rest of the city to shame with their incredible outdoor Christmas lights displays. The Churchill Arms is located in Kensington, just minutes from Kensington Palace. Kensington is one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in London. It is home to many international embassies and consulates and the residence of many politicians and billionaires. The pub dates back to 1750 and is named after Sir Winston Churchill, who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945. The pub was even one of Churchill’s grandparent’s favourites when they lived there.
During the Christmas season, the pub is adorned with over 80 real Christmas trees literally hanging off the side of the building. It almost looks like something about Whoville. It requires over 130,000 lights to cover the exterior and takes over a month to install. While some might think it’s a bit tacky, I love how over-the-top they go with their designs. And I cannot wait to see how it gets more elaborate over the years.
Christmas at Kew Gardens
Located just outside central London, Kew Gardens is a vast botanic garden wonderland that comes alive as the sunsets over the city. While people might think of Kew Gardens as more of a spring and summer destination, winter brings an entirely different look and feel to the grounds. The gardens have been transformed with unbelievable Christmas lights and decorations for visitors to explore.
The magical winter lights trail leads visitors around projections, tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like lighting in all different colours. The entire experience ends at the famous Palm House, where you can enjoy a cup of mulled wine and mince-meat pies while watching their musical Christmas experience.
Although outside the inner city, you can get to Kew Gardens in under 35 minutes on the tube. The Christmas celebrations start in mid-November and last until the first week of January. Tickets cost £21.50 off-peak hours and £26.50 during peak hours. These tickets get sold out faster than you might expect, especially on weekends, so buying them well in advance is advised.
Old City of London
The Old City of London, often simply referred to as the “City of London,” is the historic and financial heart of the British capital. It’s a neighbourhood that is steeped in history and tradition. It is home to some of London’s most iconic historical landmarks, including the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Bank of England.
Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most recognizable and impressive buildings. Its iconic dome has dominated the skyline for over 300 years and can be seen throughout the city. Every year, inside and outside the church, a series of enormous Christmas trees are installed. Each one towering over 24 feet tall. This tradition dates back to George V. The trees are all sourced from Sandringham, the royal estate of His Majesty the King. While the tree is simple and plainly decorated, something about that warm glow in front of one of the most incredible architectural buildings brings a warm smile to my face.
Watling Street
On the way out of the Cathedral, you should make a point to walk down Watling Street to view the beautiful Christmas lights hanging along the street. Watling Street is one of the most historic routes in England. It was used in Classical Antiquity and throughout the Middle Ages as one of the main Roman roads in Britannia. Today, it’s home to several lively bars and restaurants, perfect for an evening nightcap.
Leadenhall Market
The holy grail of Victorian London can be found right here inside the Leadenhall Market. Leadenhall Market is a vast covered market located in the centre of the old city of London. The origins of the market date back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest markets in London. The market is also famous for being one of the locations where the Harry Potter movies were filmed.
Leadenhall Market’s Christmas lights are so iconic that the Lord Mayor of London himself comes to switch them on! The Victorian theme is present in all the decorations, which seem to harken back to that era. Festive foliage lines the arcade. All decorations reflect Victorian styles with bows, paper ornaments, British flags and fabric-covered baubles. Underneath the theatrical arch, leading guests into the market is the giant Christmas tree, where you will frequently hear carol singers delighting the guests inside.
St. James
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is perhaps the most famous public square in London. It is in the centre of Westminster, just steps from many of the most iconic buildings in London. The square was built in the 19th century to honour the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. During this battle, the British navy captured a difficult victory against the Napoleonic off the coast of Cape Trafalgar. Nelson’s Column stands in the centre of the square. It towers over the rest of the courtyard at 169 feet tall and is guarded by four lion statues.
While the column is usually the tallest structure in the square, the colossal Christmas tree installed in the yard gives the column a run for its money. Since 1947, Norway has gifted the city of London with regal Norwegian spruce. The first tree was a gift to thank the British for their support during World War II. They decorate the tree in a simplistic Norwegian style, with only a few lights strung vertically yearly. It is erected 12 days before Christmas and remains in the square until 12 days after Christmas. Making the square even more festive is the fabulous Trafalgar Christmas Market. Over 20 stalls sell everything from Christmas ornaments, jewellery, hand-crafted goods and lots of sweets!
Jermyn St
Walk along Haymarket Street towards Jermyn Street. Jermyn Street is renowned for its longstanding tradition of fine tailoring and men’s fashion. It has been a destination for the discerning gentleman searching for impeccably tailored clothing, accessories, and grooming products for centuries. Along Jermyn Street, you’ll see different variations of the spirits that hang above Regent Street. But it is far less busy on Jermyn Street, so if you’re looking for a less chaotic wander, this is the street to walk along.
Fortnum & Mason
As you walk along Jermyn Street, you’ll go to the back entrance to Fortnum & Mason. Be sure to walk through the front to appreciate the amazing Christmas Lights display. Fortnum & Mason is my favourite department store in London! Why? Well, because I think it has the most innovative and magnificent packaging in the entire world. As a graphic designer, I always notice packaging right away. And I find everything inside their shop to be an absolute delight.
Fortnum & Mason goes all out on their Christmas displays during the holidays. Their award-winning window displays bring smiles to everyone passing them. They transform the facade into a giant advent calendar, with each exterior window numbered from one to twenty-five, decorated with lush garlands and cheerful twinkle lights. As the month passes, the numbers are illuminated individually, like doors opening on a massive advent calendar.
St. James Street
Make your way down St. James’s Street, stopping in front of Lock & Co. Hatters and Berry Bros. & Rudd, who often have some of the best lighting displays on the exterior of these historic stores.
Pickering Place
Hidden away off of St. James Street is Pickering Place. Pickering Place is a small, cobbled courtyard surrounded by elegant Georgian townhouses. This picturesque courtyard is reminiscent of a bygone era, and at Christmas, they decorate it with a beautiful traditional outdoor Christmas tree and white Christmas lights.
Marylebone
Just south of Regent’s Park, in the city’s north end, you’ll find the charming borough of Marylebone. Marylebone Village is best known for its stunning light garlands swagged across the old brick streets. Everyone in this small neighbourhood village seems to participate in the Christmas celebrations. Decorating every street corner and shop window.
South Molton Street
To start your explorations of Marylebone’s Christmas Lights, make your way to South Molton Street. The street was built in the mid-18th century, and much of the area still retains the original Georgian homes built in the 1900s. At Christmas time, it hosts a series of astonishing illuminated arches. Their bright blue glow beckons you in from far beyond. The blue is so bright, in fact, that it casts a blue glow over the entire street.
Oxford Street
If you are looking for a place to shop, there is no better street than Oxford Street. In fact, it is Europe’s busiest shopping street, with around half a million daily visitors and over 300 shops! Look up and down the street to admire the over one million twinkling stars raining down onto the street. They are genuinely some of the most impressive sights in the city. And you can almost always spot a myriad of red double-decker buses, almost grazing the tops of the lights. This scene always makes for the most perfect photo op!
St Christopher’s Place
St Christopher’s Place is a tiny pedestrian alley just off Oxford Street. It somehow maintains the feeling of a tranquil oasis just astride one of the busiest parts of town. That small-town feel is amplified with window boxes filled with flowers in the springtime, wooden benches and friendly locals chatting in the main square. When Christmas comes to St. Christoper’s, lovely extra-large illuminated ornaments hang from above. Casting a rainbow glow down on the narrow stone walkways below.
Marylebone High Street
Continue north along St. Christophers Place, passing Widmore Street until you reach Marylebone High Street. Marylebone High Street is famous for its boutique shopping scene. It is lined with an array of upscale and independent shops catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Everyone seems to get into the Christmas spirit at Christmas with elaborate displays on every corner!
Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Belgravia
Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Belgravia are some of the most affluent areas of London, located south of Hyde Park. These streets are where you can find a refined and upscale ambiance, Victorian townhouses, grand mansion blocks, and impressive garden squares.
Harrods
Founded in 1834 by Charles Henry Harrod, Harrods Department store, located in Knightsbridge, is perhaps the most famous shopping mall in all of London! If not the most recognizable name for luxury, it is known worldwide. Harrods goes all out with its Christmas decorations. Every year, they go about transforming the exterior, as well as the interior, of the store into a fantastical winter wonderland. Last year, Christan Dior took over the light displays on the facade with giant starbursts that sparkled like the stars in the moonlight.
Inside, Harrods Christmas displays are known for their extravagance and attention to detail. While they might be far above your Christmas budget, wandering around the displays is a great way to get inspiration for your home and enjoy the stunning Christmas atmosphere.
Daphne’s
One of my favourite Christmas Lights displays is actually located inside one of my favourite restaurants. Daphne’s is located in the heart of Chelsea and is a local favourite for Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The decor changes slightly every year, but you can always expect Christmas lights and baubles hanging from the ceiling, like dining in a forest of Christmas decorations!
Pavilion Road
Pavilion Road is a charming street in Chelsea near the Royal Borough of Kensington. Despite being close to the main road, this street truly feels like escaping back in time. At Christmas time, when the twinkly lights are strung up along the roofs and carollers can be heard singing in the distance, it feels like you’re inside a Charles Dickens novel. The road features a series of artisan food shops perfect for grabbing special items for your Christmas table. The jovial neighbourhood atmosphere along this street is palpable, and one of the best-hidden gems in the city!
Sloane Square
Sloan Square is another favourite destination in Chelsea for Christmas lights. This square is much more peaceful than the adjacent Duke of York. Immense snowflake-shaped lights hang from the trees, making you feel tiny standing underneath. The seductive Venus fountain in the centre of the square makes for the perfect place to nab a photo of the twinkle lights falling all around you.
Duke of York Square
Just down the King’s Road is one of the best places to see the Christmas lights in Chelsea; the Duke of York Square and the King’s Road. The Duke of York Square features these incredible chandelier Christmas lights hanging from the trees. I love how this gives the appearance of being inside a high-class ballroom in the middle of London.
To the east of the square, King’s Road features this amazing crowned light above the roadway. The crown is intricately designed and is based on the crown worn by King Charles II. Be sure to carve out some time to stroll around the Chelsea Christmas shopping mall. All the stores in the area have created some incredible Christmas displays inside and outside their shops!
Elizabeth Street
Elizabeth Street is a charming and picturesque street in the upscale neighbourhood of Belgravia. It is known for its quaint, village-like atmosphere, boutique shops, and, during the Christmas season, its beautifully adorned decorations that transform the borough into a festive wonderland.
Above the road, Elizabeth Street is adorned with festive lights in the shape of gorgeous chandeliers that illuminate the passersby with a warm and welcoming glow. These lights create a magical atmosphere and make evening strolls especially enchanting.
Many shops and boutiques on Elizabeth Street participate in the holiday festivities by decorating their storefronts with Christmas wreaths, garlands, and twinkling lights.
Southbank & Southwark
The boroughs of Southbank and Southwark can be found on the south side of the River Thames. Southbank and Southwark offer stunning riverside promenades with picturesque views of London’s skyline.
Belvedere Road
Belvedere Road runs parallel to the eastern bank of the River Thames and has one of the most impressive views of the London Eyes framed on either side by Christmas light-wrapped trees. While the London Eye, for me, is an overrated tourist trap to pay to go inside, looking at in from below, all lit up in Christmas colours, is always an impressive sight!
Southbank Centre Winter Market
One of the most popular spots in Southbank is the pedestrianized embankment along the Thames called the Queen’s Walk. This exquisite promenade was created for the practical purpose of public drainage and preventing flooding. But it has been transformed into this gorgeous walking area with trees set alight during Christmas. Glittering garlands hang about, and the modern neon lights can be seen reflecting off the waters of the Thames.
But perhaps one of the biggest draws to the area is the Southbank Centre’s, Winter Market. The smell of mulled wine permeates the air as you walk amongst the wooden chalet selling Christmas food and decor. All set under the twinkling lights above.
Borough Market
Borough Market is one of London’s most famous and historic food markets. Located in the Southwark borough of London, near London Bridge, it is a bustling and vibrant marketplace that has been a hub for food and drink enthusiasts for centuries. Borough Market embraces the festive spirit during Christmas with charming decorations and seasonal delights flooding the entire market.
Strings of twinkling fairy lights create a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially in the evenings and the outdoor portion of the market is wrapped in giant red ribbons, making the entire place feel like a giant Christmas present wrapped just for you!
Hay’s Galleria
Hay’s Galleria is a massive warehouse complex on the river that was once used for storing and distributing tea along the Thames River. Today, the building has been transformed into a shopping and dining destination. At Christmas time, Hay’s Galleria is home to a lovely little market, but best of all, there is an enormous Christmas tree and a fantastical alpine cocktail bar.
Christmas by the River Market
Against the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations lies London Bridge City’s Christmas by the River. This holiday market is nestled along the water’s edge under the glowing lights of Tower Bridge. Winter cabins covered in fairy lights line the riverside. Each one sells hand-crafted items and delicious festive foods. In addition, the market also features these amazing, larger-than-life animals lit with Christmas lights that look out over the city of London.
I hope this holiday guide gives you some insight into where you’d like to explore on your next trip to London at Christmas time. There really is no better place in the world to be delighted by the festive lights of the season. And best of all, this entertainment is all for FREE! In the comments, let me know what your favourite display is! Or where in your hometown has the best Christmas lights?
Happy Travels, Adventurers!
Leave a Comment