England – Visit London in Christmas spirit

London is one of the coziest cities in Europe to visit during the Christmas season. Starting in November, the British capital turns into a city full of twinkling lights, atmospheric shopping streets, imposing Christmas trees and winter markets everywhere. We were there last year in November and even with high expectations we were still surprised. Those who love Christmas, city walks and the typical English atmosphere will love London during this period.

Start your visit to London with a London Christmas Lights Tour

One of the most fun ways to discover London in Christmas atmosphere is the London Christmas Lights Tour. From various locations in London, an open-top bus takes you along the city’s most famous streets and landmarks in an hour and a half. We boarded at Green Park Station. You’ll drive along Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus and past Trafalgar Square, among other places. Along the way, you’ll see the London Eye, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Marble Arch twinkling in winter lights. The tour is an ideal start to your city break and shows in a short time how beautiful London is in December. Be sure to wear something warm, as the best seat is of course the upper deck, but it can be quite chilly.

Borough Market in winter atmosphere

The next day we ventured out to discover Christmas hotspots for ourselves. We started at Borough Market. Borough Market, located in the Southwark district near London Bridge, is one of London’s oldest and most beloved markets. In winter, it has an even warmer atmosphere. The market is full of stalls selling fresh produce, winter dishes, fragrant spices and hot drinks. It is a wonderful place to sample local delicacies and stroll around quietly. Borough Market is an ideal first stop during a Christmas weekend in London. Do get there early as it can be very crowded.

Experiencing Christmas in Covent Garden in central London

Covent Garden is perhaps the most famous place in London to experience the Christmas spirit. In the heart of the Westminster district, you’ll find giant baubles, atmospheric light installations, cozy restaurants and street performers creating a lively atmosphere. Despite the crowds, Covent Garden is a place you don’t want to skip. We had lunch around the corner at Oystermen, a seafood restaurant known for oysters and crab. We feasted there!

Leicester Square Christmas Market in Westminster

Leicester Square is in the middle of London’s entertainment district and has its own Christmas market every year. This Christmas market is smaller than the big events elsewhere in the city, but precisely because of this it is atmospheric and convenient. You’ll find stalls selling gifts, winter snacks and cozy seating areas. Leicester Square Christmas Market is ideal if you are looking for a convivial atmosphere in the heart of London. Ideal to take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Old Bond Street in Mayfair with spectacular Christmas lights

Old Bond Street in the posh district of Mayfair is known as one of London’s most luxurious shopping streets, but during the Christmas season it is a sight in itself. The facades of famous fashion houses are completely decorated with impressive light installations. Walking down Old Bond Street feels like walking through a Christmas movie. Therefore, this street is a popular spot for visitors who want to admire the most beautiful Christmas decorations in London. Even if you don’t buy anything, walking around here is a treat.

Ice skating at Somerset House on the Strand

Somerset House, located on the Strand between Covent Garden and the Thames, transforms into an atmospheric winter setting every year. In the middle of the courtyard you will find a large ice rink that is beautifully lit. All around, you can find hot drinks and a nice place to catch your breath overlooking the ice rink. Ice skating at Somerset House is one of the most iconic activities you can do in London during the Christmas season. It is atmospheric and one of the most fun winter activities in London.

Trafalgar Square Christmas Market in the heart of London

Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most famous squares and is filled with market stalls, handmade Christmas gifts and winter treats around Christmas time. In the middle of the square are large picnic tables where visitors enjoy warm snacks and drinks together. With the imposing Christmas tree in the background, Trafalgar Square is one of the most atmospheric places to soak up the London Christmas atmosphere. The atmosphere is casual and lively.

Burlington Arcade in Mayfair in Christmas spirit

Burlington Arcade in Mayfair is a historic shopping arcade from the 19th century. The arcade is known for upscale boutiques and sophisticated appeal. During the Christmas season, Burlington Arcade is beautifully decorated with elegant lights and subtle decorations that add to the classic look. This is the London of historical novelist Jane Austen, but with Christmas lights.

Winter by the River at London Bridge on the Thames River

Winter by the River takes place along the River Thames, between London Bridge City Pier and Tower Bridge. The Christmas market is full of wooden chalets, atmospheric lighting and cozy places to eat or drink something. The reflection of the lights in the water makes this location extra special. A wonderful place to stroll around.

Pub visits in The Strand and a musical in the West End

A city break to London in Christmas spirit is not complete without a visit to a traditional English pub. The Wellington on The Strand is one such place where you can feel the British conviviality in full force. Combine a pub visit with a musical in the West End, London’s theater district. We visited Moulin Rouge, which was a festive end to our weekend. West End is the place for evening entertainment in London.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park in London

Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas activities in London and takes place in Hyde Park. You can find attractions, ice rinks, Christmas markets, live music, winter bars and numerous food stands. The grounds are huge and ideal for families and visitors who want to experience many Christmas activities in one place. Winter Wonderland is open annually from November to early January.

Christmas at Kew Gardens in Richmond

In the Richmond area are the famous Kew Gardens, which transform into a magical light show during the Christmas season. During Christmas at Kew, you will stroll past illuminated installations, colorful light shows and atmospheric winter decorations. It’s a peaceful and enchanting Christmas experience just outside central London and ideal if you want to escape the hustle and bustle.

Practical tips for a Christmas trip to London

Those who want to visit London in November or December would do well to book hotels, restaurants and shows in advance. The city is popular around the holidays and making reservations avoids disappointment. If you travel a lot by public transportation, the tube is the easiest way. With an Oyster Card or contactless payment you can easily travel throughout London. Furthermore, warmer clothes are not a luxury and cash payments are handy for small stalls at Christmas markets. Good walking shoes are indispensable, because London is best discovered on foot.

Why London in winter is a must

London in November and December is an ideal destination for those who want to start the festive month atmospherically. The city buzzes, glows and surprises you at every corner. From markets to light shows and from the West End to the Thames. A Christmas trip to London is full of highlights. We have already put London back on our list during the Christmas season.

Credits photos: OpstapmetLisa