London is a city that truly comes alive during the Christmas season. The British capital is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive lights, decorations, and markets that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. From the iconic Oxford Street lights to the charming winter wonderlands of Covent Garden, there's no shortage of magical Christmas decorations to discover in London. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of the 7 most magical London Christmas decorations that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.
1. Oxford Street Christmas Lights
The Oxford Street Christmas lights are one of London's most iconic and beloved holiday traditions. Every year, the famous shopping street is transformed into a dazzling display of lights, with over a million twinkling bulbs stretching from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road. The lights are turned on in early November, marking the official start of the holiday season in London.
The History of Oxford Street Christmas Lights
The tradition of the Oxford Street Christmas lights dates back to 1959, when a group of local shopkeepers decided to string up some lights to attract more customers to the area. Over the years, the display has grown in size and complexity, with new designs and themes added every year.
2. Covent Garden Winter Wonderland
Covent Garden is one of London's most charming neighborhoods, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The historic piazza is filled with festive stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to gourmet food, and the surrounding streets are adorned with beautiful lights and decorations.
Things to Do in Covent Garden at Christmas
Covent Garden is a great place to visit during the holiday season, with plenty of things to see and do. Some highlights include:
- Ice skating at the Covent Garden rink
- Visiting the festive market stalls
- Enjoying a holiday meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes
- Taking in the beautiful lights and decorations
3. Regent Street Spirit of Christmas
Regent Street is another iconic London shopping street that's transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The street is adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy.
The Regent Street Christmas Lights
The Regent Street Christmas lights are one of the highlights of the holiday season in London. The display features over 300,000 twinkling bulbs and is turned on in early November.
4. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is one of London's most popular holiday attractions. The park is transformed into a festive funfair, with ice skating, live music, and plenty of food and drink stalls.
Things to Do at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a great place to visit during the holiday season, with plenty of things to see and do. Some highlights include:
- Ice skating at the outdoor rink
- Visiting the festive market stalls
- Enjoying live music and entertainment
- Taking a ride on the Ferris wheel
5. Bond Street Christmas Lights
Bond Street is one of London's most luxurious shopping streets, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The street is adorned with beautiful lights and decorations, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy.
The Bond Street Christmas Lights
The Bond Street Christmas lights are one of the highlights of the holiday season in London. The display features over 100,000 twinkling bulbs and is turned on in early November.
6. Leicester Square Christmas Market
Leicester Square is one of London's most iconic public spaces, and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a festive Christmas market. The square is filled with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to gourmet food, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy.
Things to Do at the Leicester Square Christmas Market
Leicester Square is a great place to visit during the holiday season, with plenty of things to see and do. Some highlights include:
- Visiting the festive market stalls
- Enjoying live music and entertainment
- Taking in the beautiful lights and decorations
- Ice skating at the outdoor rink
7. Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
Trafalgar Square is one of London's most iconic public spaces, and during the holiday season, it's home to a beautiful Christmas tree. The tree is a gift from the people of Norway to the people of London, and it's been a tradition since 1947.
The History of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
The tradition of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree dates back to 1947, when the people of Norway gifted a tree to the people of London as a symbol of gratitude for their support during World War II. The tree has been a beloved London tradition ever since.
We hope you've enjoyed our tour of the 7 most magical London Christmas decorations. Whether you're a local or just visiting for the holiday season, there's no shortage of festive fun to be had in this great city. So why not get out there and start exploring? From the iconic Oxford Street lights to the charming winter wonderlands of Covent Garden, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
What are the best Christmas markets in London?
+Some of the best Christmas markets in London include the Winter Wonderland market in Hyde Park, the Covent Garden Winter Wonderland market, and the Leicester Square Christmas market.
When do the Christmas lights go up in London?
+The Christmas lights in London typically go up in early November and stay up until early January.
What is the best way to get around London during the holiday season?
+The best way to get around London during the holiday season is by using public transportation, such as the Tube or buses. You can also consider walking or taking a taxi, but be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak holiday hours.