The London Christmas Lights 2025 season is almost here – and the capital is ready to glow brighter than ever. From Oxford Street’s sparkling stars to the twinkling trees of Covent Garden and the dazzling trail at Kew Gardens, London turns into a festive playground once the lights switch on each November. Whether you’re planning a winter trip, a romantic evening walk, or just want to capture those perfect holiday photos, this guide covers when and where to see every major London Christmas lights display in 2025 – with all the confirmed dates, expected switch-ons, and local tips to help you find them easily.
Oxford Street — From Monday 3 November 2025 (confirmed)
Europe’s busiest shopping street will glow with 5,000 stars and 300,000 LED bulbs, once again raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.
Free to visit. Best seen after 5 pm once the sun sets; lights stay on until late evening.
Nearest stations: Oxford Circus, Bond Street
Don’t miss: The rooftop view from John Lewis near Oxford Circus.
Regent Street & St James’s — Expected Thursday 6 November 2025
The famous ‘Spirits of Christmas’ angels will return to Regent Street, Piccadilly and St James’s, spreading festive glow across London’s West End.
Free to visit. Visit between 5 pm – 9 pm for the best sparkle and smaller crowds mid-week.
Nearest stations: Piccadilly Circus, Green Park
Don’t miss: The Wishing Tree at St James’s Market supporting The Felix Project.
Carnaby Street — Expected Thursday 6 November 2025
Soho’s Carnaby Street will once again dazzle with its bold and creative theme ‘All is Bright’, celebrating five years of sustainable lighting.
Free to visit. Go after dark (5 – 8 pm) to catch the lights in full glow before nightlife gets busy.
Nearest stations: Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road
Don’t miss: The immersive light installation overhead on Carnaby’s main strip.
Covent Garden — From Wednesday 12 November 2025 (confirmed)
Over 300,000 lights will illuminate the Piazza and Market Building, with a 55-ft Christmas tree, shimmering mirror balls, and a festive atmosphere that’s pure London magic.
Free to visit. Best between 4:30 – 8 pm for that golden-hour glow; weekends are busiest.
Nearest stations: Covent Garden, Leicester Square
Don’t miss: The sparkling central tree on the Piazza — one of London’s most photographed sights.
Marylebone Village — From Wednesday 12 November 2025 (confirmed)
Marylebone’s cosy high street will be pedestrianised for its switch-on celebration, featuring food stalls, local choirs and boutique shopping.
Free to visit. Try early evening (5 – 7 pm) on switch-on day for live music and street food.
Nearest stations: Baker Street, Regent’s Park
Don’t miss: The live choir performance on Devonshire Street during the switch-on evening.
Leadenhall Market — Expected Friday 14 November 2025
This ornate Victorian arcade transforms into one of London’s most atmospheric festive destinations, complete with a giant Christmas tree and artisan markets.
Free to visit. Best viewed after sunset (4:30 – 6 pm) when the glass roof reflects the lights.
Nearest stations: Bank, Monument
Don’t miss: The 18-ft Christmas tree beneath the historic iron arches.
Christmas at Kew (Kew Gardens) — Expected Friday 21 November 2025
Kew Gardens’ world-famous after-dark trail returns with eight new installations and, for the first time, lighting at the Great Pagoda. Tickets are required.
Tickets required — book early [click]! Timed entry evenings from 4:20 pm onwards.
Nearest station: Kew Gardens
Don’t miss: The breathtaking light tunnel leading toward the Pagoda.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland — From Friday 14 November 2025 (confirmed)
London’s biggest festive attraction brings rides, markets and live shows — plus a new illuminated area, Luminarie Lane, for 2025.
Tickets required for entry at peak times — book online [click]! Free entry weekday mornings; best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Nearest station: Marble Arch
Don’t miss: Ice-skating beneath the lights at the UK’s largest outdoor rink.
The Shard — Expected Tuesday 25 November 2025
The capital’s tallest skyscraper will once again shine as part of its annual “Shard Lights” display, designed by artist Gustavo Zuluaga Villegas.
Free to view from outside. For skyline views, book The View from The Shard tickets [click].
Nearest station: London Bridge
Don’t miss: The reflection of the lights on the Thames, best viewed from Tower Bridge at dusk.
Chelsea Winter Village — Expected Saturday 15 November 2025
Set within the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, this 1.5 km light trail combines sculpture, art and seasonal cheer, alongside a festive market and live music.
Tickets required — purchase via [click]. Timed entry evenings from 4:30 pm; book ahead to avoid sold-out sessions.
Nearest stations: Sloane Square, South Kensington
Don’t miss: The illuminated bandstand performance under the fairy lights.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights Festival — From Monday 20 January 2026 (confirmed)
Kicking off London’s new year in style, this free light-art festival brings large-scale installations to the financial district, brightening up January nights.
Free to visit. Go after dark (5 – 9 pm) for the full illumination and reflections on the water.
Nearest stations: Canary Wharf, Heron Quays
Don’t miss: The dream-like water reflections between the skyscrapers.
Travel-Lagged Tips
- Go just after sunset for the best glow.
- Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Use the Tube — parking near most displays is limited.
- Book early for ticketed experiences like Kew Gardens.
- Bring a hot drink, gloves and your camera — the lights photograph beautifully at dusk.
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