[2024 Latest Edition]London Christmas Special Efficiently Touring the Lights

I’m Dice, a Japanese resident living in London. I’ve grown quite fond of the cosy warmth that central heating brings.

In this blog, I’ll be showcasing the latest Christmas lights in London for 2024. From mid-November, many areas across the city have started lighting up. Unlike Japan, the UK takes Christmas celebrations very seriously, and I hope to capture that enthusiasm for you. This guide is perfect for those who: 1) want to know the best Christmas light spots in London as recommended by locals, and 2) are looking for an efficient way to visit as many light spots as possible.

Additionally, We are sharing videos of London’s Christmas lights on YouTube, so do check them out!

Let’s make Embankment Station the starting point

If you want to see as many light spots in London as possible in an efficient way, I’d recommend starting from Embankment station in central London. Although starting from Tottenham Court Road station, which is located midway between the recommended light spots, is also an option, there’s something special about taking your time to enjoy the dazzling lights on foot. If you’re unsure which station to start from, I highly suggest beginning your journey at Embankment station.

Feature on recommended illumination spots in London in 2024

Now, starting from Embankment station, I’ll introduce the recommended Christmas light spots in London, as suggested by locals, in order. Additionally, We are sharing videos of London’s Christmas lights on YouTube, so do check them out!

Somerset House (Dates: 13 November 2024 – 12 January 2025)

A ten-minute walk from Embankment station takes you to Somerset House, a historic site that was once home to the Queen of England. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a festive wonder, complete with an illuminated ice rink and a selection of food and drink stalls.

Strand (Dates: 12 November 2024 – early January 2025)

About a five-minute walk from Somerset House is Strand, a street adorned with fairy light s. It’s a lively area bustling with shoppers.

Covent Garden (Dates: 12 November 2024 – early January 2025)

Around a five-minute walk from the Strand is Covent Garden, famously featured as a filming location for Audrey Hepburn’s My Fair Lady. The space is vividly decorated with giant golden bells and bright red baubles.

This area is perfect for more than just admiring the lights—it’s lined with shops ideal for picking up gifts, such as tea shops and patisseries, and there are several restaurants where you can take a break and enjoy a meal.

A red sleigh surrounded by Christmas trees serves as a popular photo spot.

Seven Dials (Dates: 12 November 2024 – early January 2025)

About a five-minute walk from Covent Garden is Seven Dials, a roundabout where seven streets diverge. There is a central column fitted with six sundials, with the column itself acting as the seventh. Each street branching out from the roundabout is also decorated with Christmas lights.

Additionally, We are sharing videos of London’s Christmas lights on YouTube, so do check them out!

Around Tottenham Court Road Station (Dates: early November 2024 to early January 2025)

About a five-minute walk from Seven Dials, the route towards Tottenham Court Road station is also beautifully illuminated, making for a captivating walk.

In front of Tottenham Court Road station, there is a permanent digital artwork that creates dynamic visual experiences. During the Christmas season, it becomes even more impressive, transforming into a kaleidoscopic wonderland that enhances the festive atmosphere.

Sky Full of Stars: Oxford Street (Dates: early November 2024 to early January 2025)

Oxford Street, which stretches from Tottenham Court Road station, features its Sky Full of Stars display. While it has a subtle vibrancy, the street is adorned with about 300,000 stars, creating a charming and enchanting atmosphere that stands out among London’s Christmas lights.

Spirit of Christmas: Regent Street (Dates: 7 November 2024 – 5 January 2025)

Heading straight along Oxford Street, you’ll reach the Oxford Circus junction. From here, you’ll see Regent Street stretching south—a renowned shopping district known for its magnificent display of angels. This iconic light has been going on since 1954 and one of the must-visit spots in London during the Christmas season.

Additionally, We are sharing videos of London’s Christmas lights on YouTube, so do check them out!

Fortnum & Mason (Dates: early November 2024 – 24 December 2024)

Fortnum & Mason, the renowned British luxury department store with a royal warrant, is a true highlight. Its building, adorned in vivid red and gold, stands out spectacularly among London’s Christmas lights, making it an unmissable sight.

This year’s theme is “Seasonal Feasts,” with each window designed around the concept of a “Magical Christmas Feast.” The displays feature an array of British wildlife, plants, and festive characters, adding a charming touch to the holiday spirit.

Burlington Arcade (Dates: 14 November 2024 – 12 January 2025)

Across Piccadilly Street from Fortnum & Mason, in the heart of Mayfair, is the iconic shopping destination, Burlington Arcade. The decorations here, featuring a Christmas tree, red ribbons, and golden baubles, offer a unique charm that sets this spot apart from the others.

Illuminations at famous brand stores (Dates: early November 2024 – undecided)

Just near Burlington Arcade is Old Bond Street, lined with luxury brand stores. One of the most famous high-end shopping areas in London, each boutique along the street has created its own unique and original Christmas light display. Additionally, We are sharing videos of London’s Christmas lights on YouTube, so do check them out!

The first display you’ll encounter on Old Bond Street is the Christmas light by Chanel.

As you walk a little further down the street, you’ll come across the Christmas lights by Cartier and Ralph Lauren.

Continuing further down the street, you’ll come across the Christmas lights by Van Cleef & Arpels, Louis Vuitton, and Dior.

Conclusion

How is it?

I’ve shared a plan to efficiently visit London’s Christmas lights, perfect for those who want to explore the city’s stunning light displays, as recommended by locals, or for those looking to see as many as possible in an efficient way. While life in Japan may be more comfortable in many ways, the Christmas season in London offers a dazzling display of lights that light up the entire city, far surpassing anything in Tokyo. I believe it’s one of the most enchanting aspects of London.

London is filled with countless fascinating spots to explore. Depending on your travel purpose, I’ll continue to share recommendations and model courses with unique insights that only a Japanese resident could provide, so be sure to check out my other blog posts.

Additionally, I’m sharing my life in London and travels around Europe on YouTube. Through videos, you can experience real moments, beautiful scenery, and an authentic feel that goes beyond what words can convey, so please visit our channel as well!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mriiy15