A Prelude to Christmas: London’s Festive Glow

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, London transforms into a city of lights and festive cheer. This weekend, immerse yourself in the pre-Christmas festivities that Greater London has to offer. Begin your journey with the Christmas Lights Walking Tour on November 16th or 17th, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This magical tour starts at Strand Street, where the festive lights set the stage for an enchanting evening. As you stroll through the city, you’ll encounter the grand Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square, a gift from Norway, standing tall amidst a sea of twinkling lights. The atmosphere is alive with the sound of carolers, adding a touch of nostalgia to the modern cityscape.

Continue your exploration to St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, a beacon of warmth and welcome. The church’s beauty is only enhanced by the festive decorations that adorn its exterior. As you make your way to Leicester Square, you’ll find yourself in a Christmas wonderland, complete with wooden stalls offering festive treats and twinkling snowflake lights. The vibrant lights of Piccadilly Street will guide you to Bond Street, where the elegant, star-like lights create a regal atmosphere. This tour is a perfect way to connect with the city’s holiday spirit, offering a seamless blend of history and festivity.

A Journey Through London’s Illuminated Streets

For those seeking a different perspective, the Open-Top Bus Experience offers a panoramic view of London’s Christmas lights. Available on both November 16th and 17th, with multiple time slots including 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM, this tour allows you to sit back and enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of an open-top double-decker bus. As you traverse the city, you’ll be dazzled by the lights of Oxford Street and Regent Street, each adorned with millions of stars and breathtaking festive displays.

The tour also takes you past the iconic landmarks of Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye, each illuminated in their festive glory. A live guide will accompany you, sharing festive facts and stories that bring the city’s history to life. The reviews speak for themselves:

“This was the best experience of my life!” - Reviewed on 2024-01-04

This tour is not just about the lights; it’s an opportunity to see London in a new light, to appreciate the city’s architectural beauty and its rich history, all while basking in the glow of the holiday season.

Embracing the Spirit of the Season

As you wander through London’s streets, you’ll find that the city’s charm lies not just in its lights, but in the spirit of the season that permeates every corner. The quaint charm of Seven Dials, with its starry snow globes and vibrant pink and silver lights, offers a cozy holiday spirit that is hard to resist. St Martin’s Courtyard, a car-free shopping haven, invites you to pause and enjoy the oversized holly wreaths adorned with bright white lights.

Conclude your festive journey at Covent Garden, a bustling market area that transforms into a Christmas spectacle. Here, the extensive decorations and lively atmosphere capture the true essence of London’s holiday spirit. The Apple Market offers crafts and antiques, while the giant disco ornaments and the impressive Covent Garden Christmas tree provide the perfect backdrop for a festive photo.

This weekend in London is more than just a prelude to Christmas; it’s an invitation to embrace the joy and warmth of the season. Whether you’re exploring on foot or from the top of a bus, the city’s festive glow is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.