London is ready for you, Christmas.
Okay, sure, Christmas in London may not be quite the same this year. Many of the city’s most festive institutions, such as the Natural History Museum’s ice rink and the South Bank’s Christmas market, have been cancelled—but nothing can stop the city from decking its proverbial halls.
December is usually a month of mulled wine and extravagant light switch-ons, but let’s not dwell. Heat up some Merlot on the hob with a couple of cinnamon sticks, tuck into a chocolate orange, and scroll through this glorious gallery of pictures. ’tis the season to live vicariously through other people’s photos and all that.
Oxford Street Christmas lights
Oxford Street’s magical Christmas lights are back, and they’re displaying a powerful message of unity and hope this year. The lights are paying tribute to the strength and brilliance of Londoners, whilst also championing those who’ve demonstrated kindness and steadfast support to others during the pandemic.
Londoners are being asked to nominate their ‘2020 Hero’, with successful nominees seeing their name appear in the lights for a week of well-earned fame. Read the full story.
Bond Street’s peacock-inspired Christmas lights
London’s luxury shopping district, Bond Street, has recently undergone a glittering makeover and it’s a sight for sore eyes.
The street is also home to the famously festive Cartier shopfront. Read the full story.
SEE ALSO: 12 London Shopfronts That Have Had Magical Christmas Makeovers
Regent Street’s angelic Christmas lights
Just like every year, Regent Street haven’t flown far from their roots. The famous angels actually made their first appearance back in 1954, though they have evolved over the years.
SEE ALSO: 13 Incredible Photos Of London At Christmas During The 50s And 60s
Known as ‘The Spirit of Christmas’, Regent Street’s Christmas lights display is now the largest in the country. Read the full story.
Carnaby Street’s hopeful ‘Choose Love’ Christmas lights
This year’s Carnaby Christmas lights have been created in collaboration with the Choose Love charity, who work tirelessly to raise funds and much-needed amenities for refugees and displaced people across the globe.
The pink neon lightboxes span the length of Carnaby Street, and each one bears a simple message such as “Thank You”, “Hope”, “Hero”, “Believe”, “Dream” and “Love”. Read the full story.
Covent Garden’s spectacular Christmas display
Covent Garden is now home to over 115,000 lights, and it’s just as gorgeous as you’d imagine.
Central to the Covent Garden Christmas lights is London’s biggest hand-picked Christmas tree, which tops out at a whopping 60 feet tall. Read the full story.
Fortnum & Mason’s beautiful advent calendar façade
Fortnum & Mason are celebrating Christmas with a fabulously festive countdown to the big day.
As well as a rather ill-fitting (yet totally brilliant) tribute to 2020…
St Pancras International’s pretty pink Christmas tree
St Pancras International’s always ‘grammable Christmas tree has been designed in partnership with perfectly pink café chain EL&N, and pays tribute to NHS staff and key workers that have helped carry the UK through the pandemic.
The 34ft high tree is dubbed “The Tree of Hope”, and depicts a whimsical carousel at the base. Read the full story.
Watling Street’s dazzling Christmas lights
Watling Street boasts a brilliant view of St Paul’s Cathedral and it’s even lovelier at this time of year.
Marylebone’s beautifully dainty displays
Marylebone is also prepared for Christmas, and its boutique-filled streets look gorgeous even in the day time.
Seven Dials’ stunning set up
Home to possibly the quaintest road layout in London, Seven Dials has gone all out for Christmas this year.
Read more: 16 Twinkling Christmas Lights Displays To See In London In 2020
Featured image: Shutterstock