Ben - Two Iced Teas As we rapidly approach that time of year, now is a perfect opportunity to start planning a trip to the big smoke. Simply use our handy guide (and free Google map below) to plan the most festive London walk possible!
We’ve listed out all the best outdoor light displays, shop fronts and Christmas trees, and will be keeping it very well updated.
If you need any help building an itinerary or walking route, drop us a line!
Below are some of our personal highlights.
Oxford Street
- Switch On: 5th November
Oxford Street have partnered with Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) this year to present their star-themed light display. Pay them a visit while you’re in town doing the Christmas shopping or – if possible – later in the evening once things have settled down a little.
Regent Street
- Switch On: 7th November
Regent Street celebrate the 70th anniversary of their Christmas illuminations this year, and were one of the first in London to do so. By now, the Regent Street angels are an iconic part of Christmas in London, and not to be missed!
Fun Fact: Regent Street illuminations use over 300,000 individual LED lights for their display!
Leadenhall Market
- Switch On: 14th November
Leadenhall Market, full of victorian charm all year round, really comes into its own at Christmas. With an enormous Christmas tree, and beautifully designed illuminations, this is the perfect place to while away a few hours. We’d personally recommend a stop at The Lamb Tavern for a mulled wine (or three!).
There are also Christmas markets and guided walks available – see Leadenhall Market’s Website for more information.
Carnaby Street
- Switch On: 7th November
Carnaby Street, usually a Mecca for the more fashion conscious, without the price tags of nearby Bond Street (which also has a great Christmas display), tends to venture a little “off-piste” as far as Christmas lights go. Previously, we’ve seen illuminations themed around the universe, butterflies – even the Rolling Stones. This year the theme is “into the light”, and is described as “an immersive light installation”, with displays taking place every hour.
With plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants in the vicinity, Carnaby Street makes for a great festive night out.
But there’s more…
Of course, we’ve just scratched the surface here with a tiny sample of our favourite spots. We’ll keep updating the map, and bringing you more London festive events and suggestions as they come in!
And don’t forget, if you’re not keen on hitting the centre of London – or Christmas is not your thing – we recently published a great Pub Walk on our blog.
Have you got any less well known Christmas hang outs we’ve not covered? Let us know! Leave us a comment below or drop us a line via email, we’d love to hear from you.
