This is a post about Christmas in London 2025.
I must say, the outside world is so Christmassy already, it’s like Halloween has come and gone! So I’m trying really hard to hold on to it for the time being planning my Halloween in London.
Some of you, however, might be keen to start planning your Christmas holidays. Europe at Christmas is truly magical and London turns its festive spirit right up! Between (A LOT OF) lights everywhere, towering trees and cosy markets, the city becomes a postcard come to life. We don’t have one particular Christmas hub, we’ve got several neighbourhoods each with a display bigger than the next. And this is your guide to Christmas in London 2025 and the best festive places to visit. From world-famous Christmas markets to underrated neighbourhood gems.
Just one warning before you get too excited: London at Christmas is PACKED. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder levels of packed. So aim for early weekday mornings or late evenings if you want to beat the crowds.
Leadenhall Market
Location: Liverpool Street
One of London’s oldest markets, Leadenhall feels like stepping into a Dickensian novel at Christmas. Its beautiful Victorian architecture, twinkling lights and giant Christmas tree make it one of the most atmospheric spots in the City of London. Also popular among Harry Potter fans…
Visit before 10am for peaceful photos of the decorations and Christmas tree before the commuters roll in.
Perfect for cosy winter strolls, festive photos and a quick hot chocolate from one of the cafés.
Covent Garden Christmas Village
Location: Covent Garden
Covent Garden goes all out for Christmas every year with a massive tree, mistletoe chandeliers, snow machines and live music. You’ll find pop-up stalls, mulled wine and plenty of festive cheer.
Featuring pop-ups and events throughout the season, this year’s lights switch on will take place on 12 November.
Perfect for gift shopping, festive snacks, and taking the perfect Christmas selfie.
Read more: Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2025: Ultimate Guide
Fortnum & Mason
Location: Piccadilly
The iconic department store is basically Christmas HQ. Known for its luxurious hampers and gleaming window displays, it’s a must-see for holiday inspiration (and serious window-shopping envy).
The Piccadilly windows are redesigned every year!
Perfect for shopping for fancy chocolates, teas and gifts or simply soaking up classic London holiday charm.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
Location: Hyde Park
London’s biggest Christmas event returns for 2025 with rides, roller coasters, circus shows, an ice rink and the Magical Ice Kingdom. You’ll need to book tickets ahead of time.
Check out The Bavarian Village for beer and bratwurst or the ice bar if you want something a little more extra.
Perfect for families, groups of friends and anyone who likes their Christmas with a bit of chaos and cheer. Emphases on the “chaos”. And crowds. BIIIIG crowds.
Somerset House Ice Rink
Location: The Strand
Why Go: Somerset House is home to one of London’s prettiest rinks. You can skate under fairy lights, grab a mulled wine at Fortnum’s Lodge and shop at the Skate Lounge pop-up store.
Of of the most iconic London spots during the holiday season! Evening skates under the giant tree are unbeatable.
Perfect for couples, friends and anyone after that quintessential London Christmas.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Location: Southbank
Personally, one of my favourite spot year-round, the Southbank’s riverside market combines great food, Thames views and, during Christmas, a festive buzz that’s hard to beat.
Try the hot churros and mulled wine from the wooden chalets. Check the Southbank Centre website for this year’s events and free performances.
Perfect for foodies and anyone who loves city lights by the river.
Harrods & Sloane Square
Location: Knightsbridge & Chelsea
Harrods is synonymous with Christmas luxury. Its glowing façade and intricate window displays are pure festive excess. After shopping, walk to Sloane Square to see its elegant light display and boutique stores dressed to impress. Head over to The Cartier store wrapped up like a giant present.
Perfect for window shopping and picking up an indulgent holiday treat.
Selfridges Christmas Shop & Oxford Street Lights
Location: Oxford Street
Selfridges opens its Christmas department in August (yes, August) and it’s where London’s festive spirit officially begins. Does it feel extra Christmassy because of its appearance in classic Christmas movies such as Love, Actually and Bridget Jones’ Diary?! I don’t know about you, but it does for me!
Besides, the Oxford Street and Regent Street lights stretch for miles, making it one of the most dazzling walks in the city.
This year’s Oxford Street theme is starry, with 5,000 brilliant white stars made from 300,000 LED bulbs. Lights switch on 3 November this year and remain until 6 January.
Perfect for shoppers and anyone who secretly loves Christmas chaos.
Kew Gardens Christmas Light
Location: Richmond
The legendary light trail at Kew Gardens returns each year with glowing tunnels, lasers and an illuminated lake. It’s easily one of London’s most beautiful winter experiences. Tickets sell out early every year so book yours now.
The reflections of the lights on the Palm House lake are jaw-dropping!
Perfect for families, couples and anyone who loves Christmas magic surrounded by nature.
Carnaby Street Christmas Lights
Location: Soho
Carnaby always does something a little different. Each year’s theme is creative, colourful, and full of personality. Expect bold designs, live music nights, and independent shops with special Christmas windows.
The 2025 theme is “All is Bright,” a vibrant and colorful display featuring sculptural lights with a “dazzling new chapter of colour-driven Christmas lights”.
Regent Street & Bond Street Lights
Location: Central London
These are London’s most famous Christmas lights and for good reason. The angels on Regent Street stretch nearly the entire length and Bond Street’s 2025 design adds an extra sparkle near the luxury shops. Last year a giant Chanel bottle was the pièce de résistance!
Walk from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus after dark for the full effect.
Perfect for a free and unforgettable Christmas walk.
Greenwich Christmas Market
Location: Greenwich
This market is smaller and more local but full of charm. It’s ideal if you want to shop handmade gifts, eat good food and support small businesses.
The festive lights around the Cutty Sark area and the artisan stalls in the covered market.
Perfect for cosy, slower-paced Christmas shopping.
The Churchill Arms
Location: Kensington
Famous for its flower displays year-round, this pub goes absolutely wild at Christmas with over 80 trees and thousands of fairy lights. It’s probably the most photographed pub in London come December.
Snap a photo outside, then head in for a pint and some Thai food (their pad thai’s great).
Perfect for a festive pub stop after a day of exploring. You can do some Christmas shopping nearby at High St Ken.
Richmond Riverside Lights
Location: Richmond
Richmond goes quietly festive every year with twinkling riverside decorations and elegant shopfronts. It’s a wonderful spot for an evening stroll or a pre-dinner walk before heading to one of the local pubs or restaurants.
The lights reflecting on the Thames.
Perfect for peaceful local Christmas vibes away from central crowds (although Richmond’s become quite popular these last few years…)
Tips for Christmas in London 2025
- Book early: Winter Wonderland, Kew Gardens and Somerset House all sell out weeks in advance.
- Travel smart: Use contactless and check for holiday transport changes (no public transport on 25 December! Reduced service on 26 Dec). Avoid driving – parking is expensive and limited. If you need a guide to public transport in London, I’ve got you covered!
- Dress warmly: London gets damp and chilly at night. Layers, waterproof boots and beanies are your best friends.
- Plan your days: Combine nearby spots like Covent Garden – Somerset House – Southbank for one route.
- Eat well: Don’t skip the seasonal food. Mulled wine, mince pies and German-style sausages taste better when you’re freezing.
- Bring a portable charger: You’ll take hundreds of photos – trust me.
This is a post about Christmas in London 2025.
