Last Updated on October 30, 2019 by Sophie Nadeau
If you’re in search of a festive vibe in the UK, then it doesn’t get much merrier than the British capital of London. Home to all manner of Christmas Markets, twinkling lights, and outdoor delights, here’s your complete guide to the best place to experience Christmas lights in London!
Seven Dials
So-called thanks to its formation of seven roads culminating in an epicentre, the Seven Dials are largely pedestrianised and are worth exploring all year ’round. Filled with shops, eateries, and perfect to visit in every season, comer the wintertime, the streets are decorated by a dazzling array of festive lights and decorations.
Neal’s Yard
Though less of a secret London location now than even just a few years ago, Neal’s Yard is a pretty courtyard tucked in between the sprawling streets of the Seven Dials. Best seen earlier in the day and mid-week if possible so as to avoid the crowds that inevitably flock to the colourful destination as a result of greater social media sharing, Neal’s Yard is also one of the best places to see the Christmas lights in London!
Oxford Street
Owing to its two hundred million visitors a year, Oxford Street is easily one of the most popular shopping destinations in Britain, if not all of Europe. As such, it should come as no surprise that one of the best places to see Christmas Lights in London is along the iconic retail road.
Apple Market, Covent Garden
If it’s raining during your visit to London (and, let’s face it, there’s more than a small chance of an encounter with showers when you book a visit to the UK’s capital!), then wrap up warm in your fluffiest scarf and head indoors to the Apple Market.
Named for the former function of the venue as a fruit and vegetable market, today the indoor location is home to an array of all manner of boutique shops and restaurants. Once there, you can enjoy a bite to eat or pick up an unusual gift.
Decorated depending on the season, in the festive months you can often enjoy carol singers or simply admire the sparkling Christmas lights. Nearby, you’ll also find one of the largest Christmas trees in London, as well as some festive life-sized (and present filled) sleigh decorations.
The London Hotels
And finally, if you’ve braved your fair share of the cold and are looking for a spot to cosy up somewhere warm, preferably in a place that serves a delicious afternoon tea, then be sure to check out some of the city’s hotels.
Of particular note when it comes to enjoying the Christmas lights in London indoors is the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. The velvet staircase steps away from the Lobby is always home to a tree and is popular among wedding photographers. Check out details for booking a stay at this luxury hotel here!
Other private establishments across the city of note include the ever-popular Rules Restaurant (this fine-dining venue was established as early as 1798) and many of the iconic department stores, including John Lewis and Selfridge’s along Oxford Street. And if you want to see one of the best sets of fairy lights of them all, then you certainly can’t go wrong by visiting Harrod’s!
Warner Bros. Studios
Though not technically within the zone of ‘London Proper,’ heading out to enjoy the Harry Potter studios is an absolute must for any fans of the Wizarding World. An easy day trip from the UK capital city, especially if you opt to book a guided day trip like this one, during the festive season the Harry Potter set is decked out with decorations, and there’s perhaps no better time to sample a ‘butterbeer’ for yourself!
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