Christmas in London, the best Christmas decorations & activities!
London is transformed into a true Christmas paradise during December. The Christmas decorations are truly beautiful and attract many visitors. You'll be amazed, as it seems like there is a competition going on to see who has put the most effort (and money) into decorating their shop and/or street! Let me take you along to all the places with beautiful Christmas decorations and some other Christmas acitivities in the city of London!
Christmas by the river
’Christmas by the water’ is a small Christmas market by the Thames river where they primarily sell food. This Christmas market is near the Tower Bridge. Tip: Walk from the subway station Tower Gateway across the beautiful Tower Bridge, and you'll easily reach the Christmas market. The market is free to visit.
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Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
In the vast Hyde Park in the heart of London, there is a large winter-themed fair. This location is very popular, and it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance to avoid disappointment! It is especially enjoyable to visit with children.
Christmas lights bus tour
Christmas Lights bus tour is a great way to enjoy the Christmas decorations while sitting back and relaxing! There are several providers offering tours to view the holiday decorations. For a unique experience, consider booking an Afternoon Tea Christmas Lights Tour, where you can enjoy a high tea while cruising through London, taking in iconic landmarks adorned with Christmas decorations. As a budget-friendly alternative, you can opt for a regular bus route around the Regent Street area. For the best experience, sit on the upper deck, preferably at the front. Keep in mind that not all decorations can be seen on a bus tour, as buses do not travel through Bond Street. So you will have to visit this street at another time!
Harrods
The iconic department store Harrods is a true Christmas classic and steals the show with its Christmas decorations on the outside. On the ground floor, you can also buy Christmas decorations and souvenirs.
Egyptian hidden gem
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The most gorgeous flower shop
Neill Strain Floral Couture: This flower shop has multiple locations that are all beautifully decorated. We visited the Mayfair location. This flower shop is also stunning on the inside, but it's mostly a case of just looking and not buying ; )
J 'adore Dior
The famous fashion house Dior on the upscale shopping street Bond Street is renowned for its beautiful decoration. This year, a beautiful white butterfly was the star of the show.
Cartier
A bit further down Bond Street is the jewelry brand Cartier. The building was beautifully adorned with a red balloon and lots of lights.
Annabel's
Annabel's is an exclusive private members club that has also done well. The exterior is decorated with a large red balloon and reminded me of the Moulin Rouge.
The biggest adventscalendar
Fortnum & Mason is another well-known department store and has decorated the exterior of the building in the style of an advent calendar. The windows with the red color and large letters are a real attraction. Inside the department store, you will also find a Christmas section.
Burlington Arcade
This passage with luxury shops is decorated in a classic Christmas style with many green branches and wreaths adorned with golden lights.
Regent Street
Regent Street is the place to be when it comes to Christmas decorations in London. It is very crowded here, filled with people trying to capture the perfect picture from the middle of the road. The beautiful angels above the street are white with blue accents and are definitely a must-visit. Tip: take a bus line that goes through this street and sit upstairs, preferably right at the front; this way, you can admire the angels up close!
Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street is a trendy street where they have hung unique and creative Christmas decorations above the street. This year, they have used a lot of blue lights and impressive planets.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a charming market hall. Inside, large lamps are hung, and in the square in front of Covent Garden, there is a large Christmas tree. Also, at the stroke of every hour, artificial snow falls on the square for an ultimate Christmas atmosphere. Additionally, there is a sled set up where you can take fun photos.
Leicester Square
On this square, there is a cozy Christmas market in German style. In addition to decorations, there is also a wide variety of food available, such as traditional bratwurst and mulled wine. However, this Christmas market is very crowded, especially on weekends! The market is free to visit.