Best Christmas Lights in London
With the world in the situation we are currently in, mixing in some Christmas walks to see lights around the city is an excellent choice in my book. Luckily, London is filled with so many lights displays! I actually miss the days of driving around in New York and seeing the family homes decorated to the nines (that is not the same here at all). Thankfully, the city takes matters into their own hands. Please keep in mind, if you head to these spots on a Saturday night, prepare for carnage. I am just a person who sometimes can get a bit stressed out in a overly crowded situation, so I feel the need to point that out. The other good news is that a lot of these spots are located within a general vicinity of each other which makes it easier to walk around in.
This Christmas has been different and a bit of a downer for me as I was not able to return home to see my family, which I know is the case for many of my friends. Therefore, doing small, very inexpensive outings like this has kept my spirit going. Head out, grab a festive drink, eggnog latte or mulled wine (pick your poison) and go for a walk!
1. Regent Street- The most icon Christmas lights in London IMO!
2. Carnaby- Always a festive area, maybe not your traditional lights, but definitely worth a wander! Whilst here head over to Liberty London and check out their iconic window displays or have a mosey in the store (even if it’s just window shopping) Am I the only person who feels festive when walking around department stores? Something about it makes me feel Christmassy?
3. Oxford Street- same vibes as regent street, just different lights!
4. Trafalgar Square- This might be the unpopular opinion, but I am not sure why people like this tree so much? Having said that, worth a trip, there is also a lovely Christmas Market set up in the square with some more Christmas lights
5. Somerset House- this is two-part, head down the strand for some lights, and then tuck into the area of Somerset house. You know the drill, grab a warm drink, maybe even a whirl on the ice rink!
6. Covent Garden- Now this tree is more my speed! The area is also set up with pretty lights and displays throughout!
7. Mayfair- Ok this suggestion is jam packed. Lots of stores that have iconic displays: Cartier, Stella McCartney, Scotts & Selfridges to name a few. Walking up and down Mount Street, seeing the tree at the Connaught Hotel, Old Bond Street to Piccadilly, the whole area is great. Also to note this might be ~SLIGHTY~ less crowded than the Regent Street option at peak times.
8. Chelsea/ Sloane Square- This might be my favorite since it is not on the exact tourist path necessarily, but taking a strong down the Kings Road and landing in Sloane Square can be quite festive and fun. Make sure to check out some of the hidden mews, or even a stroll to pavilion road! There are Christmas decorations hidden around every corner!
9. Leadenhall Market- This little market bodes old world feelings, whilst bringing the Christmas spirit alive with their iconic tree and seasonal decorations. Stop in the pub for a pint and enjoy some classic pub like decorations!
10. Seven Dials- The junction of seven streets in London’s West End, meeting at an impressive pillar. The pillar and the streets around it have some beautiful lights, as well as surrounding markets that make for a lovely walk around the area.
What places are you checking out for lights this year?!
Sam xx
