Christmas shopping in London is a magical time. From the famous Oxford Street to whimsical Covent Garden and Christmas markets all over the city, there are so many wonderful shops and markets that you will never be bored.
Is it worth visiting London in December?
December is a fantastic time to visit London, especially for the festive spirit. In addition to all of the amazing shopping, there are also many events happening around London such as carol singing, ice skating, and other festive fun.
Like other cities around the UK, December tends to be the busiest month with long queues and busy stores. However, shops are noticeably quieter on weekdays during standard office hours. Most stores open for extended hours during the month of December, so you can shop when it suits your schedule.
As well as the shopping opportunities, December is a popular month to take in a show or a musical. These book up fast, so make plans in advance if possible.
Where are the best places for Christmas shopping in London?
There are so many great Christmas markets around the city. We would recommend visiting one of these first, as it’s a wonderful way to get into the festive spirit!
Covent Garden and the Seven Dials area is a very popular shopping district in central London. The area is decorated with a giant Christmas tree and this year there will be a free interactive Lego installation and other surprises in store (want to make sure you experience snow this year? You might want to head here, hint hint!)
Of course, Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street are all huge shopping destinations with a range of brands and shops.
For tasty festive treats, make sure you pay a visit to Fortnum & Mason. Nearby Bond Street is the best place to shop for luxury goods and designer labels.
Finally, a must on any London shopping itinerary is the world-famous Harrods department store. The Knightsbridge store is even more magical at Christmas time, and you can easily spend a few hours browsing the festive food, decorations, and gifts.
Are Christmas markets happening in 2021?
After the disappointment of 2020, you’ll be glad to know that most Christmas markets in London are planned to go ahead as scheduled in 2021.
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is back and the Southbank Winter Festival will also be running during the month of December.
Several other festive markets will be taking place in and around London this year. Check out our guide to Christmas markets in London for the full list.
What date do the Christmas lights go on in London 2021?
The London Christmas celebrations have already kicked off this year at Carnaby, which has chosen a colourful butterfly theme instead of the traditional Christmas lights in partnership with refugee charity Choose Love.
Next up is Covent Garden, which will be launching its Christmas celebrations and turning its lights on from 9th November. This is swiftly followed by various areas around Belgravia, which will be lit up from the 10th of December.
Regent Street’s and St James’ lights will be lit up from 13th November, and Chelsea will follow with a festive family event on Saturday 20th November.
The date for the main event – Oxford Street’s Christmas lights – has yet to be announced. Also keep a lookout for the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar square, which is usually lit up on the first Thursday in December.
Are London Christmas lights on all night?
The lights in Oxford Street and Carnaby stay on all night (and other areas may well too). So if you want to beat the crowds, you can enjoy the amazing display of lights until the early hours of the morning.
What are the best shops in London for Christmas decorations?
All of London’s major department stores have an impressive array of Christmas decorations including Harrods, Selfridges, Liberty, John Lewis, and Heal’s.
Paperchase has some of the quirkiest decorations and comes out with new collectible designs every year. Of course, all your Christmas card and wrapping paper needs are covered here too.
It’s also well worth an explore in the shop of the V&A Museum, which always has a unique and artistic selection of Christmas decorations, gifts, and wrapping paper.
What is the most famous shopping street in London?
The most famous shopping street in London is of course Oxford Street. But it’s only one of the many choices you have for doing your Christmas shopping in London.
Make sure to check out some more of the city’s wonderful shopping districts including Covent Garden, Mayfair, and Knightsbridge. There are also several malls, plenty of Christmas markets, and some designer outlets which are all fantastic places to shop for gifts, decorations, festive food, and Christmas party outfits.
Is Winter Wonderland open this year?
Yes! We’re happy to confirm that the UK’s biggest and best Christmas market and festival is returning to Hyde Park from the 18th of November. However, this year you’ll need to pre-book to get in as numbers are limited.
Is there an all-year Christmas shop in London?
Unfortunately, the Christmas shop in Hay’s Galleria which used to sell Christmas decorations all year has now closed. However, several of the major department stores open their Christmas shop in September.
