I always look forward to the festive season in London, and 2024 is shaping up to be extra special. There’s something truly magical about the way the city comes alive with Christmas lights, transforming every street, square, and park into a winter wonderland. I’m excited to share my personal recommendations for the best Christmas light displays you absolutely must see in London. From iconic streets to hidden gems, I’ve got you covered for the most enchanting and festive experiences!
Regent Street: The Sparkling Heart of Christmas
Without a doubt, the most magnificent and iconic Christmas lights in London are found on Regent Street. Every year, this legendary street gets dressed up in spectacular lights, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere that makes it a must-see. For 2024, I can already imagine how stunning the decorations will be. I love walking down Regent Street during Christmas — the glow of the lights, combined with the grand historic buildings, gives off such a festive vibe.
- Lighting Dates: The lights typically turn on in mid-November and stay up until the New Year.
- Nearest Underground Station: Piccadilly Circus or Oxford Circus
- Ticket Information: Completely free to visit! Although it’s free, the crowds can be heavy, especially on weekends, so I recommend visiting during the week if you want a more peaceful experience.
Pro Tip: After soaking in the lights, I usually do some Christmas shopping at the flagship stores. Regent Street is full of luxury brands and beautiful department stores, perfect for picking up a few holiday gifts.
Oxford Street: A Shopping and Light Wonderland
Just a short walk from Regent Street, Oxford Street is another iconic location that always dazzles with its Christmas lights. This year, I’m expecting Oxford Street’s lights to be as beautiful as ever, with a blend of traditional and modern designs. It’s the ultimate destination for holiday shopping, and the lights make it even more magical.
- Lighting Dates: The lights are typically turned on in early November and stay on through the festive season.
- Nearest Underground Station: Oxford Circus
- Ticket Information: Free! You can stroll down Oxford Street and enjoy the decorations without paying any fees.
Pro Tip: Oxford Street is the heart of London’s shopping scene, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy the Christmas lights and pick up some gifts. After you’ve admired the lights, don’t forget to explore the many shops — they’re beautifully decorated for Christmas as well!
Carnaby Street: A Quirky Christmas Light Display
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, Carnaby Street is the place to be. Every year, this trendy street surprises me with unique and creative Christmas lights that have a distinct artistic flair. I love how Carnaby’s decorations always bring something fresh and unexpected to the table. From fashion-themed displays to pop culture references, Carnaby’s lights are truly one of a kind.
- Lighting Dates: The lights are usually switched on in mid-November and run until the new year.
- Nearest Underground Station: Oxford Circus
- Ticket Information: Free to visit, no tickets needed.
Pro Tip: Carnaby Street is a fashion-forward area, so it’s the perfect place for anyone who loves unique and stylish decorations. Plus, the independent boutiques here are a great place to find quirky, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.
Covent Garden: A Christmas Market and Light Wonderland
For me, Covent Garden is always a must-visit during the Christmas season. The area is beautifully decorated, and the Christmas lights are simply magical. It’s also home to one of London’s best Christmas markets, where you can buy seasonal treats, handmade gifts, and festive goodies. Every time I visit, it feels like stepping into a Christmas card.
- Lighting Dates: The Christmas lights are usually switched on in mid-November and remain lit until the new year.
- Nearest Underground Station: Covent Garden
- Ticket Information: Free to visit. Some events in the market may have a small fee, but wandering around and enjoying the lights is completely free.
Pro Tip: Covent Garden is also a fantastic place for street performances. I love grabbing a hot chocolate or mulled wine from one of the stalls and watching the entertainers perform in the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the Christmas spirit.
Kew Gardens: A Magical Christmas Light Journey
If you’re looking for a more peaceful, almost ethereal Christmas experience, I highly recommend visiting Kew Gardens. Each year, the gardens are transformed into a stunning Winter Light Festival, with trees and plants illuminated in every imaginable color. It’s an incredible display of lights that truly feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. I can’t wait to experience it all again this year.
- Lighting Dates: The Winter Lights Festival usually begins in late November and runs until December 31.
- Nearest Underground Station: Kew Gardens Station
- Ticket Information: Tickets are required for entry, and prices usually range from £20 to £25 for adults, with discounts available for children. I recommend booking in advance as the event tends to sell out.
Pro Tip: The Winter Lights Festival at Kew Gardens is perfect for a romantic evening or a family outing. The atmosphere is magical, and it’s a great place to take some amazing photos. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes because there’s a lot of walking to do!
How to Get Around London During the Holiday Season
With so many amazing Christmas light displays to explore, you’ll need a convenient way to get around the city. That’s where Trainline comes in handy. I always use Trainline to help me navigate London’s transportation system. Whether I’m taking the Tube, a bus, or even a train to explore further afield, Trainline makes everything so much easier.
Trainline is an app that collects information from over 27 railway and bus operators across Europe, including London’s public transportation network. It provides real-time updates on train and bus schedules, helping me save time, money, and energy. I can quickly check ticket prices, find the best routes, and even get personalized travel advice based on my preferences.
Trainline also makes it easy to plan your journey in advance, so you don’t have to waste time figuring out transportation when you should be enjoying the Christmas lights. I love how the app provides all the information I need in one place, making my trips stress-free.
Final Thoughts
London is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience Christmas lights, and in 2024, the city is set to dazzle like never before. Whether you’re wandering down Regent Street, soaking in the festive atmosphere of Covent Garden, or discovering the unique charm of Carnaby Street, London’s Christmas lights are a spectacle you won’t forget.
With Trainline, getting from one light display to another is easier than ever. The app helps you plan your transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the sights without any hassle. So pack your winter coat, grab your camera, and prepare to be amazed by London’s stunning Christmas lights this season. Trust me, it’s going to be an unforgettable holiday experience!