London,  UK Travel

Best Christmas Locations in London

London at Christmas is the most exciting time to be in the city. The streets are decorated with Christmas lights at popular locations. Like, Regent’s Street. where you see angels lights twinkling above you, and Oxford circus with stars dangling. Ice skating ranks are set up at Somerset House and at Winter Wonderland. Mulled wine fills the air at Christmas markets at Leicester Square, South Bank, Winter by the River. London’s top markets Borough market and Spitalfields Market also join in on the fun. They have lots of pop-ups with festive food, arts and crafts and gifts.

Mikimoto
Tiffany & Co.
Cartier

Where are the best places to visit in London at Christmas?

There are many locations around London to explore. I believe the best locations are Covent Garden. Another great place is Old Bond Street in Mayfair (to be specific) and Kew Gardens (in west London).

If you want to do an easy 30 minutes walk and avoid jumping on and off the train. I recommend you start at Bond Street station. Exit the station and head to Berkeley square for a look at Annabel’s decorations. Their decorations are very grand and stunning. The best in London. It’s one of the many places I’m excited to visit every year. Head over to Brook street for a stop at Claridge’s . Each year they have a fashion designer who designs their Christmas tree.

Then head to Old Bond Street for all the designer shops decked in Christmas facades. The most popular ones are Cartier, Chanel, Dior and Ralph Lauren. You can even buy a festive hot drink from Ralph Lauren’s pop up. Take a walk in Burlington Arcade a luxury fashion house full of jewellers, perfume stores and boutique stores. Head along to Piccadilly for Fortnum and Mason, and then over to The Ritz hotel.

Finish your walk at Regent’s Street and see the pretty angel lights. If your feet are not tired, walk over to Covent Garden or Leicester Square.

Winter by the River
New Bond Street

It’s not just the well-known locations that are worth a look. If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, venture to smaller streets like Carnaby Street. There, you’ll find quirky, vibrant displays that also deserve a photo.

Places near New Bond Street in Mayfair

Koyn
Dunhill
Piccadilly Arcade

Where are the best Christmas Markets in London?

The best Christmas markets can be found at Covent Garden, Borough Market, Spitalfields, South Bank and Winter by the River. Markets at Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square are also worth a visit. The newest opening this year is Buckingham Palace Christmas store. Although the store is outside Buckingham Palace gates. You can do a Royal walk which includes entry to the Palace. Get your Entry tickets here.

Dior
Cartier

Where are the best Ice Skating locations in London?

London’s winter activities bring out the inner child in everyone. The city’s best ice rinks are at Somerset House, the Queen’s house in Greenwich and Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park.

Where are the best restaurants with Christmas decorations?

Lunch at Dalloway
The terrace at Dalloway

For a festive experience, why not indulge in a Christmas-themed afternoon tea?. Many of London’s hotels like The Ritz, Claridge’s, Pan Pacific, The Library at County Hall have Christmas tea experience. Just think of creative festive sweet treats to eat.

Dalloway has seasonal themes on their terrace that are worth a visit for brunch or dinner. Daphne’s is another great restaurant to dine during the festive season. You can read about my Christmas lunch on my blog post London restaurant at Christmas.

Where to find the best Christmas shops in London?

Department stores like Harrods and Fortmun & Mason for their Christmas shops. You’ll find the Christmas shop in Harrods on the ground floor. I love visiting Fortmun and Mason as I’m obsessed with their teas. If you’re a tea lady like me, you’ll love this store. The tea section is on the main floor and their Christmas shop on the 3rd floor.

Tea boxes from Fortnum & Mason
Christmas ornaments on the 3rd floor

Kew Gardens at Christmas

A visit to Kew Gardens at Christmas is one of the best time. The botanical garden is decorated with light installations. It’s one of the best and most stunning Christmas displays to see. I have been to Kew at Christmas 3 years in a row. There’s always something new to see. I recommend you book your tickets in advance on Kew Gardens website. Read my blog post about the Christmas trail at Kew Gardens.

What Classic Christmas things to do in London?

The city’s iconic church St. Paul’s Cathedral, host beautiful Christmas Eve services. Or why not try a Christmas candlelight concert.

Why you should visit London at Christmas

There’s something truly special about spending Christmas in London. The capital is filled with magic and cheer. There’s so much happening at every corner it’s impossible to miss out on the fun. So wear your warmest coat and comfortable shoes. Set off to London with this London Christmas guide and enjoy the festive season.

For more Christmas guides read these blog post:

Key Takeaways

  • London at Christmas features stunning lights, ice skating, and festive markets at key locations.
  • Top festive spots include Covent Garden, Regent’s Street, and Kew Gardens, which hosts beautiful light displays.
  • Visit markets like Borough Market, South Bank, and the new Buckingham Palace Christmas store for unique gifts.
  • Enjoy themed afternoon teas at prestigious hotels like The Ritz and Claridge’s for a festive treat.
  • Experience the city’s magic by attending a Christmas service at St. Paul’s Cathedral or exploring charming streets like Carnaby Street.

Disclosure: Some of the links on this page contain affiliate links. This just means that if you choose to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Travellers Stays is a travel blog by a solo female traveler, sharing travel guides, honest hotel reviews and solo tips to help readers plan unforgettable trips.

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