There is nowhere quite like London during the festive season. London Christmas decorations adorn the streets. There are events left, right and centre and restaurants and bars have a host of festive-inspired dishes and cocktails to enjoy. There are ice rinks under twinkling fairy lights, hot chocolate pop-ups and so much to enjoy. If you’re looking for the best London Christmas decorations and things to do in the capital this festive season, we have you covered.
The best London Christmas decorations you need to see
Christmas by the River Thames
From the 15th of November 2022 – 2nd of January 2023 Christmas by the River returns to the River Thames. It will take place from The Scoop to London Bridge City Pier. Christmas by the River incorporates London Christmas decorations, traditional Christmas markets and free entertainment. This includes outdoor festive films, pop-up bars and a live choir – it’s a beautiful place to get festive! Check out the Hay’s Galleria Christmas tree as well as the animal-inspired light installation by The Scoop.
Christmas at Borough Market
Borough Market has a host of fun Christmas plans coming up. This includes an “evening of cheese”, guest traders, Christmas decorations and longer opening times. The annual cheese-themed shopping extravaganza takes place on the 15th of December, while the Christmas decorations will be up from the 15th of November. From 1st of December, you can enjoy a weekly program of live choirs and bands as well a range of festive food and drink on offer. Find out more about Borough Market’s Christmas offering here.
Christmas at Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of the most beautiful spots to head for London Christmas decorations and events. With a 60ft Christmas tree and over 115,000 Christmas lights, it is a sight to be seen. And that’s not all, they have a fantastic series of festive activities for you to look forward to as well. Their insta-famous snow will return ready for a host of photo opportunities. Dolce&Gabbana will take over the Piazza with an immersive pop-up space, Italian food market and exclusive products. You can visit the Winter Warmer Mulled Wine Festival from 8th-20th of November and the Christmas Sandwich Festival from 3rd-10th of December. There will be several other festive surprises and things to enjoy so be sure to head down this winter! Find out more here.
Winter Wonderland
From the 18th of November 2022 – 2nd of January 2023, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland returns for its 15th anniversary with a host of exciting ice-themed attractions. The park will be adorned with beautiful London Christmas decorations and there will be a host of things to do. This includes the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a magical ice kingdom and bar ice. You can try ice sculpting workshops and wander around the many Christmas market stalls to pick up some festive gifts. Book your tickets from the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland website here.
Christmas at Carnaby Street
This year head to Carnaby Street to see their London Christmas decorations and get in the festive spirit. Their medley of iconic lights from the past 25 years has a host of themes. This includes an underwater seascape, colourful rainbows, oversized fairy lights, giant snowmen, 60s inflatables, a kaleidoscope of butterflies and collaborations with two of the world’s most famous bands; the Rolling Stones and Queen.
Seven Dials Christmas Lights
Make your way to Seven Dials to see their impressive array of London Christmas Decorations. Here you can expect sparkling starbursts illuminating the seven streets through cosy hues of amber and pink. Visit on 17th of November for their Winter Warm Up event where you can experience a variety of workshops, seasonal entertainment, and exclusive discounts. Ticket holders can also embrace the festivities by taking part in free interactive workshops found throughout the seven streets. From candle, wreath and cracker making, to an eco-friendly face glitter station, there’s something for everyone. Register for your free ticket here.
Chelsea Christmas Lights Switch On
For some of the best London Christmas decorations, head to The Kings Road on Chelsea. Their array of Christmas lights never fail to disappoint and this year is no exception. Head down on the 19th November for a Christmas market and entertainment for all the family from 11am. Meet Santa’s reindeer, try glass bauble blowing and wrapping paper marbling at the artisan makers quarter. After this, soak up the atmospheric entertainment from the big stage and roam around the neighbourhood. Complimentary horse and carriage rides will return along with many shops, restaurants and bars running tempting offers and exciting experiences. Father Christmas and a little local hero, their name picked off the top of the ‘nice’ list, will be switching on the lights this year, illuminating Chelsea at 5 pm, complete with fireworks display! Find out more here.
Christmas in Marylebone
Marylebone village is another beautiful spot for you to head and look at some London Christmas decorations. They are having their switch on this Thursday 10th of November and are celebrating with an unforgettable evening of festive activities. For one day only, Marylebone Village shops, cafes, bars and restaurants will offer festive experiences, exclusive discounts, and specially created menus. A range of activities will be in full swing across Marylebone Village. Spectators can get into the Christmas spirit with wreath making, live illustrations, snow machines, a charity tombola & santa’s grotto. You can also expect roaming musicians and a host of food, drink & christmas gift stalls. The Christmas lights can be enjoyed from above by taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel and for the festive foodies, renowned Chef, food writer and TV presenter Celia Brooks will be hosting a series of her famous food tasting tours, with a Merry Marylebone twist. Merry Marylebone will continue throughout the festive season with a series of special seasonal promotions and activities that will all be announced shortly.
Mayfair Mount Street Christmas Lights
On 17 November at 6.30pm, Mayfair’s Mount Street will turn on of its dazzling display of 63,000 energy-efficient sparkling lights which will feature big blue blows running up and down the street. The Connaught will also unveil its world famous Christmas tree. From 5pm the road will be temporarily closed and retailers across Mount Street will celebrate the switch-on from operatic performances to artisan cocktails and complimentary treats. Christian Louboutin will be providing a delicious combination of crepes and mulled cider free of charge from their bespoke Parisian Loubi Cart.
Bond Street Christmas Lights
Also on 17 November Bond Street is set to reveal a spectacular new Christmas lighting design, taking inspiration from the resplendent magnificence of The Crown Jewels and the world-famous and revered jewellery houses that have settled in Bond Street over the centuries.
These are just a few places to go and see London Christmas Decorations and get into the festive spirit. We will continue to update the list so make sure you check back!
