Christmas is a time of year to spend with your loved ones and family members of all ages simply love the capital’s Christmas lights displays. Many large shops have famous displays but it is the street displays which really capture the imagination. Allow us to walk you through some of this year’s very best displays.
Possibly the most famous shopping street in the world, Oxford Street is transformed each year and attracts visitors from all over the world. This year there are close to 2,000 decorations that cover the street, giving the impression of thousands of falling snowflakes as far as the eye can see. The switching on of the lights has become one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the build-up to Christmas.
Just around the corner you will find one of the most exclusive retail areas of the city and Bond Street promises not to disappoint those who wish to get into the festive spirit. Along the street shoppers can gaze up at the stunning peacock feather displays that loom above creating an elegant ambience whilst you browse the windows.
The Mount Street Christmas lights may not be as famous as those on some of the other streets in the area but this year’s display simply cannot be missed. This exquisite display perfectly accompanies the atmospheric and sophisticated ambience of the street. Wetherell, the leading Mayfair property experts and sponsor of the street’s display, adds “The Mount Street lights are becoming a London institution that perfectly captures the spirit of this famous street, but most importantly; it is surely the best way to get into the Christmas spirit.”
Carnaby Street may be most famous as the heartbeat of the swinging sixties in London but each year the Christmas display evokes the creative spirit of this iconic street. Whilst some of the other displays in town maintain a traditional theme, Carnaby Street boasts the most colourful, distinctive and exciting in the city.
Regent Street is one of the most famous streets in the city and this year’s Christmas lights display lives up to this reputation. This year, visitors cannot fail to notice the huge angel that dominates the street and is the centre piece of the display. The street’s annual lights have been a highlight of the festive calendar each year since the 1950s and provide a stunning backdrop for Christmas shoppers. Tucked away towards the bottom of Regent Street visitors can find St James’s Market, a small side street close to the famous Jermyn Street, home of generations of world-class tailors. This year, the St James’s Market hosts a stunning yet subtle display which fits perfectly with the area’s long and distinguished history.
Covent Garden is one of the most famous areas in London and is a favourite with visitors. Anyone in London this Christmas should not miss taking in this year’s lights which will not disappoint. This year’s effort embraces the festive tradition of mistletoe so there are dozens of mistletoe chandeliers dotted throughout the area. If that doesn’t get you into the Christmas spirit, then the huge and beautifully decorated tree surely will. Also, make sure you don’t miss the elegant reindeer display just outside the historic market building. The display at Seven Dials, just a few minutes from Covent Garden are also incredibly atmospheric and should not be missed.
London’s wide range of Christmas displays are just waiting to be discovered and there is always a surprise hidden just around the corner. A walking tour of these spectacular displays is one of the best ways to enjoy the capital and to get into the Christmas spirit.