Experience the holiday spirit in London - one of the hippest capitals in Europe! Explore well-known sites like Big Ben and the Tower of London, great museums, and leading art galleries, coupled with jolly festivities, sparkling window displays and exceptional holiday markets. From traditional mince pies to the glow of twinkling lights, there is truly something magical to being in London for the holidays. Keep reading to find out where to see the city sparkle!
1. Feel The Holiday Spirit At London’s Parks
Winter Wonderland - Hyde Park
Host to the biggest ice-skating rink, roller coaster rides, an ice bar and festive food stalls, soak up the festive atmosphere at London’s winter fun fair. Entry to the winter festival is free, so immerse yourself in London’s festivities and enjoy your holiday to the fullest!
Kew Gardens - Richmond
Experience an unforgettable after-dark festive trail of lights, illuminated buildings and plants. Walk under the welcoming arches, enjoy tempting treats under a million sparkling fairy lights, thousands of laser beams and tree canopies flooded with festive color.
2. Explore The Festive Market At Covent Garden
London’s biggest hand-picked Christmas tree stands tall at the cobblestone square of Covent Garden, while iconic mistletoe and glitter balls shine in the Market Building. Inside the market, taste warm mulled wine and traditional holiday mince pies, while carol singers serenade you into holiday spirit.
3. Stroll Through London’s Most Popular Shopping Streets
You know it’s the holidays when Oxford Street, the busiest shopping street of London, is transformed by glowing lights and pop-up performances from UK artists. Venture a little further to adjoining Regent Street and watch the spirit-like shapes come to life along London’s most iconic street.
Festive Window Displays Not To Be Missed:
Selfridges Department Store
The first store in the world to unveil its festive window installations, which are epic every year. Experience the holiday parade with festive floats and loads of singing.
Liberty Department Store
Get into the festive mood, at one of London’s most recognizable landmarks, buy a fancy bauble for your tree or simply admire the wonderful window displays and get a dose of luxury.
4. Discover Carnival Themed Carnaby Street
With 30 neon coconut trees, 27 giant party poppers, 8 incredible tropical flowers, 8 feathery parrots, 2 colourful toucans, 2 neon flamingos, and 1 pair of parkeets, Carnaby Street transforms into one of London’s most famous shopping parties, full of distinct character, holiday lights, and colorful decorations. In the heart of London's West End, with over 100 shops and 60 restaurants, bars and cafés, Carnaby is not to be missed during the holidays in London!
5. Get Spoiled With Festive Treats In Knightsbridge
The glitz and glam of London, gathers in Knightsbridge during the holiday season. Stroll down the streets, packed with luxury stores, high-end restaurants, and five star-hotels.
Festive Window Displays Not To Be Missed:
Harrods Department Store – Famous Brompton Road fills with sparkling bulbs that adorn its façade, this store gets festive and invites you to enjoy food tastings and performances from the Royal Academy of Music.
Harvey Nichols Department Store – Enjoy the glamorous glittering displays of this luxury store and get treated to a festive shopping party – a perfect way to start the holiday season!