Covent Garden – London’s Christmas Heart

A short journey from St Pancras takes you to Covent Garden, a must-visit destination at Christmas. The historic piazza glows with fairy lights and features one of the city’s most iconic Christmas trees, surrounded by giant baubles and mistletoe installations. Stroll through the Apple Market, where you’ll discover handmade gifts and seasonal treats. It’s the perfect place to wander, shop, and immerse yourself in the holiday magic.

The Christmas Lights of Regent Street and Carnaby Street

Just a short distance from Trafalgar Square, Regent Street and Carnaby Street are must-visit destinations during the holiday season. Regent Street, famous for its elegant angel decorations, creates a breathtaking Christmas scene. Nearby, Carnaby Street offers a playful contrast with bold, imaginative displays that change each year. Both streets are perfect for an evening stroll, with plenty of shops and cafés to explore along the way.

Victoria Tower Gardens – A Riverside Respite

Tucked away near the Houses of Parliament, Victoria Tower Gardens is a peaceful riverside park that comes to life during the holiday season with Christmas decorations and a beautifully adorned tree. While it’s not one of London’s major festive hubs, the gardens offer stunning views of the Thames and nearby landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, making it a charming spot for a winter stroll.

Take a Bus Tour Around the City

One of the best ways to see London at Christmas is by riding the city’s famous red double-decker buses. Easily spotted by their red bus signs along the streets, these hop-on-hop-off buses take you through festive streets and past iconic landmarks, all beautifully illuminated for the season. From the sparkling lights of Oxford Street to the towering Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, it’s an easy and affordable way to soak in the holiday magic.

Harrods – A Luxury Christmas Wonderland

No Christmas visit to London is complete without a stop at Harrods. This world-famous department store is a sight to behold during the holidays, with its glowing façade and beautifully decorated window displays. Inside, beyond the dedicated Christmas floor filled with ornaments, gifts, and festive treats, you’ll find an array of luxurious fashion and fine jewelry. Whether you’re shopping or simply admiring the decorations, Harrods is a must-see during the holiday season.

Oxford Street – Shop and Stroll Under the Lights

Another street that surely can’t be missed on this list is Oxford Street, where over a million Christmas lights illuminate the city’s busiest shopping area. The mix of iconic stores, festive window displays, and bustling holiday energy creates an atmosphere like no other. Even if you’re not shopping, simply walking beneath the glowing canopy of lights is a magical experience.

Tower Bridge and the Historic Tower of London

Another spot that shines beautifully at Christmas is the area around Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. As you walk along the Thames, the sight of the bridge illuminated at night is nothing short of magical. But it’s not just the bridge—The Tower of London and its surroundings are adorned with stunning Christmas decorations, making it a perfect spot for a romantic and peaceful stroll.

We also highly recommend visiting Coppa Club during this time, where you can watch snow fall (fake, unfortunately) every hour and even rent one of their cozy igloos for the ultimate Christmas experience.

Ever After Garden – A Hidden Gem of Peace and Light

Nestled in Grosvenor Square, the Ever After Garden is a peaceful and meaningful tribute, open from November to December. Filled with over 30,000 illuminated white roses, it lights up the night in a serene and heartfelt display. Each rose is dedicated to someone special, creating a quiet and reflective atmosphere. Visiting this special place is a gentle reminder of the season’s deeper meaning and offers a moment of peace amidst the festive cheer.

Battersea Power Station – A Modern Christmas Destination

Newly renovated, Battersea Power Station has become one of London’s newest Christmas hotspots. This historic industrial building is now home to a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and festive events, including a Christmas market and an outdoor ice rink. Inside, you’ll find even more holiday-themed activities, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Beyond the breathtaking view of the Power Station itself, there’s so much to see and do that you certainly won’t be disappointed.

We personally recommend visiting Fiume, an incredible Italian restaurant situated here. It was one of our favorite highlights of the trip, offering delicious food and a cozy ambiance—perfect for a romantic night out.

Kew Gardens – A Dazzling Light Show

Visiting Kew Gardens during Christmas is like stepping into a fairy tale like no other. Though a bit off the map compared to other festive spots, the annual Christmas at Kew event transforms the gardens into a magical wonderland. A glowing trail winds through the gardens, featuring dazzling light installations, illuminated trees, and a sparkling tunnel of light. The atmosphere is enchanting, making it a perfect experience for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Winter Wonderland – The Grand Finale

As you make your way through London, the dazzling lights of Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park won’t go unnoticed. This festive extravaganza features market stalls, thrilling rides, live shows, and one of the largest ice rinks in Europe. Explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, or warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate. If you’ve visited all the other recommendations and still have time left before heading back, Winter Wonderland is the perfect way to wrap up your festive journey.

Summary

As we wrap up this guide, it’s clear that London at Christmas is a city that glows with joy and wonder. Whether you’re wandering its glittering streets, sipping mulled wine at a market, or skating on one of its many ice rinks, the holiday season here is truly unforgettable—and we hope this guide has convinced you to start planning a visit yourself. With so much to see and do, and something new to discover each year, for us, this will definitely be a yearly tradition on repeat!