London transforms into a glittering winter playground every Christmas — and Christmas in London 2025 is set to be bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever!

Whether you’re a visitor or a London local, this guide covers the best Christmas markets, winter festivals, light switch-ons, and family-friendly activities across the capital. Use this as your go-to 2025 festive calendar, packed with dates, locations, and insider tips.

Top Christmas Lights Displays in London 2025

London’s festive season kicks off in early November with spectacular light switch-ons across the city, followed by markets, ice rinks and immersive winter attractions.

✨ Regent Street Christmas Lights 2025

Switch-on date: 6 November 2025
Location: Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus → Oxford Circus
Famous for its “Spirit of Christmas” angels, this iconic street shines with thousands of LEDs. The perfect spot for photos, shopping and post-work festive walks.

✨ Carnaby Street Christmas Lights 2025

Switch-on date: 6 November 2025
Location: Carnaby Street, Soho
Every year brings a unique theme! Expect bold, colourful, artsy installations that draw crowds from across the world.

✨ Covent Garden Christmas Lights & Giant Tree 2025

Switch-on date: 12 November 2025
Location: Covent Garden Piazza
Covent Garden’s giant Christmas tree, sparkling decorations, mulled wine stalls and daily entertainment make it one of London’s most atmospheric festive hubs.

Best Christmas Markets in London 2025

Here’s a roundup of the city’s most festive markets — ideal for gifts, food, crafts and seasonal vibes.

1. Southbank Centre Winter Market 2025

Location: Southbank, near Waterloo
Dates: Early November – early January
Expect Scandinavian-style wooden chalets, riverside food stalls, artisan gifts, festive cocktails and live entertainment.

2. Leicester Square Christmas Market 2025

Location: Leicester Square
Dates: Mid-November – early January
A cosy market in the heart of the West End featuring handmade crafts, mulled wine, festive shows and a Santa’s Grotto for children.

3. Trafalgar Square Christmas Market 2025

Location: Trafalgar Square
Dates: Mid-November – early January
Set around London’s iconic Christmas tree, this market includes festive stalls, street food and nightly Christmas carol performances.

4. Greenwich Christmas Market 2025

Location: Greenwich Market
Dates: All December; lights from late November
Traditional, charming and packed with artisan makers. Great for unique, hand-crafted gifts and festive snacks.

5. King's Cross (Coal Drops Yard) Christmas Market 2025

Location: King’s Cross
Dates: Late November – December
Trendy, modern stalls with indie brands, design-led gifts, festive workshops and winter pop-ups.

6. Winter by the River (London Bridge City) 2025

Location: Between Tower Bridge & London Bridge
Dates: Late November – early January
A gorgeous riverfront market with fairy lights, mulled wine bars, street food and unbeatable views of Tower Bridge.

7. Borough Market Festive Edition 2025

Location: London Bridge
Dates: All December
Perfect for foodies — Christmas cheeses, bakeries, mulled wine, roast meats, chocolate, and more.

8. Leadenhall Market Christmas 2025

Location: Gracechurch Street
Switch-on: 13 November 2025
A Harry Potter-style Victorian arcade transformed with lights and festive décor. A beautiful spot for photos and boutique shopping.

Winter Wonderland 2025 

Dates: Mid-November 2025 – early January 2026
Location: Hyde Park, W2

Winter Wonderland is London’s largest Christmas attraction, drawing millions each year. In 2025, expect:

Top attractions:

• Ice skating rink (London’s largest outdoor rink)
• Ice Kingdom immersive walk-through experience
• Giant Ferris Wheel with skyline views
• Rollercoasters & thrill rides
• Christmas circus shows
• Live music & Bavarian village bars

Tips for 2025:

• Book early (especially evenings and weekends)
• Visit weekday afternoons for quieter crowds
• Wrap up warm — Hyde Park gets chilly at night

Christmas at Kew Gardens 2025

Dates: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Kew Gardens, Richmond

Other Must-See Christmas Events in London 2025

Planning Your Christmas Trip to London 2025: Quick Tips

• Best time to visit: mid-November to late December
• Best photo spots: Regent Street, Covent Garden, Leadenhall Market
• Best for families: Winter Wonderland, Christmas at Kew, Leicester Square Market
• Best for couples: Southbank Winter Market, Chelsea Lights, ice skating dates
• Best for shopping: King’s Cross, Covent Garden, Greenwich Market