December is a magical month for Londoners. Whether you are shopping, dining or simply taking a stroll to soak up the festive atmosphere, there are countless opportunities to have fun and get into the Christmas spirit.
We know that the spectacular street lighting displays in Oxford Street and Regent Street usually attract the greatest attention. But stunning examples of festive lighting can also be found throughout central London, alongside traditional Christmas markets, cute Santa grottos and glittering ice rinks.
This Christmas we have compiled a list that combines some of the city’s most exciting and popular festive events, with lesser known – but equally inviting – seasonal offerings.
If you want to see the best London Christmas lights of 2021, or you are searching for a popular London Christmas Market, let us be your guide.
2021 is a year where London’s businesses are making an extra special effort to attract footfall, so it’s a great time to get out and see what’s on offer.
A Very Merry Marylebone Christmas
Marylebone’s swooping, starry Christmas lights offer yet another reason to visit this cosmopolitan London village. It’s a place where gorgeously decorated independent shops combine with welcoming cafes and cosy restaurants to offer an unforgettable festive shopping experience.
Grab a Christmas essentials hamper from Ottolenghi (63-65 Marylebone Lane) or sip a festive cocktail at the 108 Bar (108 Marylebone Lane). Alternatively visit Holmes Hotel to binge-watch popular romantic movies on their secret roof terrace.
Fortunate filmgoers are seated in a ‘Narnia-esqua wonderland’ with popcorn, fairy lights and cosy fur throws included.
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Knightsbridge Gets Christmassy
Knightsbridge tends to avoid conventional Christmas street lighting displays, relying instead on the bright lights of individual stores such as the world-famous Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Currently, the streets are filled with excited high street shoppers, filming this year’s enchanting window displays.
Younger residents can enjoy an exciting storytime with Santa at the Royal Albert Hall, a gilded Victorian concert hall that is the perfect venue for festive cultural activities. Keen skaters can glide the rink at South Kensington’s Natural History Museum.
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Step into Christmas in Hyde Park
Families flock to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, a seasonal extravaganza billed as “The world's best destination for festive fun - in the heart of London.” Visitors can enjoy fairground rides, ice skating and kids’ activities in “Santa Land”: there’s even a pop-up bar made entirely out of blocks of ice.
Winter Wonderland also hosts Hyde Park’s very own Christmas market, complete with one hundred prettily decorated chalets, selling everything from winter scarves to bratwurst.
Covid rules are observed here to reduce overcrowding, so remember to book your visit in advance.
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Starry Eyed in King's Cross
The N1C postcode area comes alive at Christmas. Eager shoppers can visit not one, but three King's Cross Christmas markets as well as take part in a huge range of events and activities.
Whether you want to try your hand at curling, pick up an ultra-cool, artisan-made Christmas gift or enjoy a live performance, there’s something for everyone.
In nearby St Pancras, you can take your starry eyed little ones to meet Santa in his Christmas grotto. The jolly man in red is available up to and including 23rd December: after that he’ll need to hop on a train to the North Pole.
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More Christmas Highlights
London has so many delightful streets where you can stroll, shop and enjoy fabulous festive dining. Go to Paddington to gather round a riverside Christmas tree and take selfies in the Tunnel of Light.
Alternatively, sign up for the Love Actually Christmas Lights Walk. Starting at Green Park Station, the walk takes you to 10 romantic locations featured in the film.
As you explore the capital at its festive best, you may discover one particular area that captures your heart. As London’s leading luxury estate agent, we are here to help you find your dream property, so don’t hesitate to give us a call. Merry Christmas!
