How to Spend Christmas in London

LiterallySanj
Dec 2, 2023
5 min read

Updated: Apr 23, 2024

Are you pondering the best spots in London to discover top-notch Christmas decorations and lights? London stands out as one of the finest places globally to experience the festive charm during the Christmas season. The city's streets are meticulously adorned, creating a super festive ambiance. High-end storefronts like Cartier, Chanel, and others spare no effort in showcasing spectacular Christmas decorations. The areas around Regent Street and Bond Street boast enchanting light displays. Taking a leisurely stroll through these streets allows you to soak in the festive spirit that permeates the city. Explore below to uncover the most Instagram-worthy locations during the Christmas season.

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In this article:

When do the London Christmas Lights Switch on in 2023?
How long are Christmas Decorations up in London?
Going to London? Check out these useful services!
Best Christmas Decorations in London
Annabels
Regent Street
New Bond Street
Fortnum & Mason
Churchill Arms
Claridge’s
Covent Garden
Leadenhall Market
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Harrods
Neill Strain Floral Couture
The Boltons
Hay’s Galleria
Koyn
Elgin Crescent
Carnaby Street
The Ritz Carlton
Home House in Portman Square
Ever After Garden in Grosvenor Square
Best Hotels to Stay in London to See Christmas Lights

Watch my vlog for my top 3 favourite Instagrammable locations in London during Christmas

When do the London Christmas Lights Switch on in 2023?

Oxford Street Christmas Lights Switch On: November 2nd, 2023
Carnaby Street Christmas Lights Switch On: November 8th, 2023
Regent Street Christmas Lights Switch On: November 9th, 2023
Covent Garden Christmas Decorations: Projected for November 7th, 2023
Seven Dials Street Christmas Lights Switch On: November 7th, 2023
South Bank Christmas Lights Switch On: November 13th, 2023
Kew Gardens Christmas Lights Switch On: November 15th, 2023
Mayfair Christmas Lights Switch On: November 16th, 2023
Chelsea Christmas Lights Switch On: November 18th, 2023

How long are Christmas Decorations up in London?

Christmas lights and decorations are typically switched off in early January, usually around Twelfth Night, which falls on or around January 6th. The main lights on Regent Street are usually turned off by this time, and some stores may start removing their Christmas decor as early as January 1st.

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Best Christmas Decorations in London

London boasts some of the most stunning Christmas decorations, and as a local, I've compiled a list of my favourites.

Annabels:

This private members' club showcases a unique Christmas display each year. From a Nutcracker display in 2020 to a Gingerbread House in 2021 and a carousel ride in 2022, the 2023 display features a hot air balloon.

📍Location: 46 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AT (Google Maps)

Regent Street:

Adorned with angels and festive elements, Regent Street, London's busiest street, boasts gorgeous Christmas lights. While the angels have been a recurring feature, rumours suggest a change starting from 2024.

📍Location: Regent Street (Google Maps)

New Bond Street:

Home to upscale shops like Cartier, Tiffany's, and Chanel, New Bond Street showcases extravagant Christmas displays. Ralphs, a busy coffee shop, offers a scenic spot to enjoy the view of the Cartier display.

📍Location: 175-177 New Bond St, London W1S 4RN (Google Maps)

Fortnum & Mason:

London's oldest department store, Fortnum & Mason, is a festive must-visit. In 2023, don't miss the Christmas pudding display that moves up and down within the store's beautiful stairwell.

📍Location: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER (Google Maps)

Churchill Arms:

This renowned pub changes its display seasonally and allocates around £25,000 annually on flowers to cover its exterior. During Christmas, over 90 trees adorn the pub.

📍Location: London W8 7LN (Google Maps)

Claridge’s:

An iconic London hotel, Claridge’s features a delightful Christmas display that's worth a visit. Click here to book at stay!

📍Location: Brook Street, London W1K 4HR (Google Maps)

Covent Garden:

Covent Garden transforms into a festive spectacle during Christmas, featuring a central tree, a cute red sleigh, and charming lights throughout.

📍Location: Covent Garden (Google Maps)

Leadenhall Market:

A covered market in East London and a filming location for Harry Potter, Leadenhall Market offers a picturesque scene with a Christmas tree at its centre.

📍Location: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT (Google Maps)

The Ivy Chelsea Garden:

The Chelsea location of The Ivy restaurant showcases a spectacular Christmas display, offering a festive atmosphere with Santa's office, a Christmas sleigh, and playful decorations.

📍Location: Various. Chelsea: 195 197 King’s Rd, London SW3 5EQ (Google Maps)

Harrods:

The famous department store in Knightsbridge presents a beautiful Christmas display with golden lights and a prominent Harrods sign. In 2023, there is currently no facade decoration.

📍Location: 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL (Google Maps)

Neill Strain Floral Couture:

Located in London, Neill Strain is a renowned flower shop that consistently excels in Christmas decor. The Belgravia location, adorned entirely in white, exudes a magical fairytale ambiance, as depicted in the accompanying image.

📍Location: Various. Belgravia: 11 W Halkin St, London SW1X 8JL (Google Maps)

The Boltons:

Nestled in the esteemed Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, The Boltons stands as an epitome of grandeur. Imagine making this vast mansion your home. The impressive bow, bright and large, complements the minimalistic style against the backdrop of the pristine white mansion.

📍Location: 23 The Boltons (Google Maps)

Hay’s Galleria:

Situated near London Bridge Station on the south bank of the River Thames, Hay’s Galleria transforms into a Christmas Winter Wonderland. Featuring a colossal Christmas tree and hosting one of London's finest Christmas Markets, Christmas by the River, it offers a delightful shopping experience. Explore stalls offering jewelry, accessories, and more at the Christmas Market. Indulge in a bratwurst or churros, then retreat to one of the cosy Christmas Cabins like Riverside Lodge for mulled wine and live music.

📍Location: 1 Battle Bridge Ln, London SE1 2HD (Google Maps)

Koyn:

In Mayfair, Koyn, a Japanese restaurant, boasts an enchanting Christmas display. Outside the establishment, a charming red car adorned with Christmas presents and a tree on top creates one of London's most adorable Christmas spots. Don't forget to sample their delicious food!

📍Location: 38 Grosvenor St, London W1K 4QA (Google Maps)

Elgin Crescent:

Notting Hill's Christmas decorations, particularly on Elgin Crescent, are captivating. Take a leisurely stroll past this house with a beautifully adorned display that adds to the festive charm of the area.

📍Location: Elgin Crescent, Notting Hill (Google Maps)

Carnaby Street:

In 2023, Carnaby Street captivates with floating planet lights. The splendid light switch-on celebration, held in early November (November 7th in 2023), features music, fireworks, and confetti. Plan a visit to witness the dazzling lights adorning the street, a must-see spectacle.

📍Location: Carnaby Street (Google Maps)

The Ritz Carlton:

Situated near Green Park station, The Ritz Carlton, a prestigious hotel, annually features a beautiful wreath lining the walkway entrance. Renowned for one of the most iconic afternoon teas in London, the hotel offers a luxurious and festive ambiance.

📍Location: 150 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1J 9BR (Google Maps)

Home House in Portman Square:

A private members' club located in Portman Square, London, Home House is housed in elegant Grade I listed buildings. The Christmas decorations at this location are always exquisite. In 2023, a beautiful wreath graces the door, surrounded by garlands, creating a festive atmosphere with fewer crowds of tourists.

📍Location: 20 Portman Square, London W1H 6LW (Google Maps)

Ever After Garden in Grosvenor Square:

Grosvenor Square in Mayfair illuminates with 25,000 white roses during the holiday season, a breathtaking sight that remains relatively unknown. Take the opportunity to honour the memory of a loved one by dedicating a rose while contributing to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

📍Location: W1K, Grosvenor Square, London W1K 6LD (Google Maps)

Best Hotels to Stay in London to See Christmas Lights

If you're eager to witness the Christmas Lights in London, there are numerous accommodation options available. London's efficient tube system ensures quick access to various locations from nearly anywhere. For an immersive experience amidst the festive action, I suggest considering accommodations in Covent Garden, Soho, or Westminster. These areas position you in close proximity to the most prominent Christmas light displays and attractions. It's worth noting that the holiday decor and festive atmosphere extend throughout the entirety of London!

Here are my recommended hotel selections:

Click here to make a booking!