London transforms into a winter wonderland with spectacular Christmas light displays throughout the capital. From the iconic Oxford Street and Regent Street lights to Covent Garden's stunning installations, the city dazzles with festive illuminations. Explore Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Somerset House ice skating, and the magical Christmas lights across London's historic streets and shopping districts.
Last Updated: December 2, 2025
Enlightened: Christmas at Hylands Estate
Location: Chelmsford
Dates: November 28, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Cost: $$
Enlightened at Hylands Estate features a captivating 1-mile illuminated trail adorned with newly designed light installations for 2025. Visitors can engage with interactive light-up attractions while enjoying a synchronized soundscape that enhances the visual spectacle. The trail allows guests to explore the beautifully lit grounds of Hylands Estate after dark.
Address: Writtle Entrance off of Greenbury Way – A414, Chelmsford CM2 8FS
Phone: 0330 016 1257
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A captivating night-time outdoor attraction featuring a dedicated trail of light.
- Interactive light-up attractions designed to engage visitors of all ages.
- An immersive experience combining visual spectacle with an enchanting soundscape.
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See London's Christmas Lights Bus Tour
Location: London
Dates: November 14, 2025 - January 03, 2026
Cost: $$
The See London's Christmas Lights Bus Tour offers an open-top bus experience of London's iconic streets, showcasing dazzling displays along Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Oxford Circus. Passengers can enjoy Santa's entertaining commentary while singing along to festive music, making for a unique sightseeing experience during the holiday season.
Highlights:
- Tour London's most famous streets adorned with spectacular Christmas lights.
- Ride in comfort on an open-top double-decker bus with guaranteed upper deck seating.
- Experience the magical holiday atmosphere of London during the festive season.
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Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm
Location: St Albans
Dates: Limited tickets must be booked online prior to visit. Closes at 4:00 PM on Christmas Eve.
Cost: $$
The Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm features a visit to Santa's Grotto, where children can choose a gift from his expansive toy shop using a special key. Visitors can also enjoy a festive woodland ride on Tristan the Runaway Tractor and participate in holiday-themed activities such as decorating gingerbread treats.
Highlights:
- Meet Santa in his grotto and receive a gift from his extensive toy shop.
- Experience a magical festive woodland ride on Tristan the Runaway Tractor.
- Enjoy new festive shows and sing along to holiday tunes.
Bexleyheath Christmas Switch On 2025
Location: Bexleyheath
Dates: Saturday 15 November 2025, 10:00 - 17:30
Cost: FREE
The Bexleyheath Christmas Switch On 2025 is an annual event featuring a highly anticipated Christmas lights switch-on, accompanied by a full day of family-friendly entertainment, including live music and performances. The day culminates in the spectacular countdown to illuminate the town's festive decorations.
Highlights:
- The main attraction is the highly anticipated Christmas lights switch-on event.
- A full day of family-friendly entertainment including live music and performances.
- Enjoy a full day of festive entertainment with talented singers, live performers, and dazzling dancers.
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Hinckley Christmas Lights Switch-On and Tin Hat Fair
Location: UK
Dates: Friday 21 November 2025, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Saturday 22 November 2025, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Cost: FREE
Hinckley Christmas Lights Switch-On and Tin Hat Fair features the official Christmas lights switch-on ceremony, along with a bustling fair filled with food vendors and market stalls. Live entertainment begins at 4 PM, leading up to the spectacular light display across the town center.
Highlights:
- The official Christmas lights switch-on ceremony.
- The bustling Tin Hat Fair with food vendors and market stalls.
- A festive atmosphere with live entertainment and light displays.
Alice's Christmas in Wonderland at Polesden Lacey
Location: Great Bookham
Dates: 22 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Cost: $$
Alice's Christmas in Wonderland at Polesden Lacey invites families to explore a festive trail inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, featuring Christmas decorations throughout the historic house and grounds. Visitors can participate in a children's trail for a chance to win a prize and enjoy seasonal activities across the estate.
Highlights:
- Step into a festive Wonderland inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.
- Explore the historic house and grounds transformed with Christmas magic.
- Enjoy a family-friendly Christmas trail with a prize.
The Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo
Location: London
Dates: 22 November - 4 January
Cost: $$
The Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo features a variety of family-friendly activities including the chance to meet Santa in his grotto. Guests can participate in the 'Hiding Elves Trail' and enjoy festive decorations throughout the zoo, providing a unique blend of wildlife and holiday spirit.
Address: Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience 'The Magic of Christmas' with a variety of family-friendly festive activities.
- Meet Santa Claus in his grotto, with options for standard, deluxe, or VIP breakfast sessions.
- Enjoy a festive atmosphere with themed decorations, music, and seasonal surprises throughout the zoo.
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The Winter Trail at Discovery Land
Location: Redhill
Dates: The Winter Trail is a seasonal event. Registration of interest is open for 2025. Specific dates and times will be available closer to the season.
Cost: $$
The Winter Trail at Discovery Land offers a family-friendly outdoor adventure led by characters Fern, Timber, and Pebble, designed to help visitors discover the 12 Days of Christmas. Interactive elements along the trail provide surprises that enhance the festive experience.
Address: Priory Farm Estate, Redhill, South Nutfield RH1 4EJ
Phone: 01737 823304
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A festive outdoor trail designed for families.
- Interactive elements to help discover the 12 Days of Christmas.
- Character-led adventure with Fern, Timber, and Pebble.
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Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2025
Location: London
Dates: November 14, 2025 - January 1, 2026
Cost: $$
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2025 features over 150 attractions, rides, and festive activities, making it London's largest festive destination. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food options, thrilling rides, and entertainment, including the iconic ice rink set under twinkling lights.
Address: London, ENG
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience over 150 attractions, rides, and festive activities in London's iconic Hyde Park.
- Indulge in a wide array of festive food and drink options from street food heroes to cosy bars.
- Take advantage of new packages for 2025, offering exclusive perks and savings on attractions and rides.
Canary Wharf Winter Lights
Location: London
Dates: Tuesday 20 - Saturday 31 January
Cost: FREE
Canary Wharf Winter Lights is an annual light art festival featuring a captivating 'DREAMSCAPE' theme, showcasing exceptional light artwork from artists around the world. Visitors can explore the transformed landscape of Canary Wharf, experiencing a journey through surreal and ethereal installations.
Highlights:
- The tenth edition of the popular Winter Lights festival.
- A captivating 'DREAMSCAPE' theme that promises an immersive artistic journey.
- Wander through Canary Wharf, transformed into a landscape of discovery and possibility.
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Belgravia Christmas Lights Switch-On Party
Location: London
Dates: Sunday 16 November, 12pm - 5pm
Cost: $
The Belgravia Christmas Lights Switch-On Party features the official switch-on ceremony of the Christmas lights on Elizabeth Street, accompanied by a vibrant Christmas Market at Eccleston Yards. Visitors can enjoy live musical performances from groups such as the London Gay Men's Chorus and Fulham Brass Band, and participate in family-friendly activities including meeting Father Christmas and his elf.
Address: London, ENG
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The main Christmas lights switch-on ceremony on Elizabeth Street.
- A vibrant Christmas Market in Eccleston Yards offering seasonal shopping and treats.
- Live musical performances by the London Gay Men's Chorus, Fulham Brass Band, and Solid Steel.
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Leadenhall Market Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025
Location: London
Dates: November 13, 2025: 5:15 PM onwards
Cost: FREE
The Leadenhall Market Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025 will be led by the Lady Mayor of London, marking the occasion with a festive atmosphere featuring numerous decorations, including an 18ft real Christmas tree. Visitors can look forward to experiencing magical snowfall twice daily and enjoying live performances of Christmas classics throughout the event.
Address: Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 1LT
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The official Christmas lights switch-on ceremony led by the Lady Mayor of London.
- A spectacular display of festive decorations including a large Christmas tree and garlands.
- Magical snowfall experience happening twice daily throughout the festive season.
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LEGOLAND at Christmas
Location: Windsor
Dates: Selected dates from 22nd November - 3rd January 2026
Cost: $$
At LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, families can meet Father Christmas in his snow-dusted cabin and receive a special LEGO gift during the festive season. The park features themed entertainment, including the Elf Training Academy Show and the Build to Give Workshop, alongside access to over 20 rides and attractions open for visitors.
Highlights:
- Meet Father Christmas in his cozy, snow-dusted cabin and receive a special LEGO gift.
- Enjoy new festive shows and entertainment designed to fill the whole family with Christmas spirit.
- Experience the ultimate LEGO sleepover with themed rooms and festive packages.
Windsor Great Park Illuminated
Location: Windsor
Dates: November 14, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Cost: $$
Windsor Great Park Illuminated offers visitors a captivating light trail through enchanting woodlands, enhanced by magical projections and fountain displays. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing families to include their pets while enjoying food and beverages from cozy rest stops along the path.
Address: The Crown Estate, Windsor SL4 2HT
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a spectacular new light trail winding through the enchanting woodland of Windsor Great Park.
- Immerse yourself in a wonderland of music and light, creating an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
- Bring your furry friends along, as the trail is dog-friendly, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Christmas at Chiswick House & Gardens
Location: Chiswick
Dates: Friday 21 November 2025 - Sunday 4 January 2026
Cost: $$
Christmas at Chiswick House & Gardens features 'The Twelfth Night of Christmas,' a unique holiday celebration inspired by Georgian traditions. Visitors can explore the historic house and beautifully decorated gardens, immersing themselves in the festive spirit.
Highlights:
- Experience 'The Twelfth Night of Christmas,' a unique Georgian-inspired holiday celebration.
- Enjoy the enchanting light displays set within the historic Chiswick House & Gardens.
- Immerse yourself in an opulent Georgian Christmas celebration inspired by Duchess Georgiana of Devonshire.
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Stockwood Illuminated
Location: Luton
The Stockwood Discovery Centre presents Stockwood Illuminated, an enchanting light trail that transforms the grounds into a magical evening experience. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated displays that capture the essence of the holiday season.
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in a captivating light trail set within the beautiful grounds of Stockwood Discovery Centre.
- Experience a magical evening walk through Stockwood Discovery Centre as it's transformed by enchanting light displays.
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Christmas at Hever Castle: The Land of Oz
Location: Hever
Dates: November 21 - January 2
Cost: $$
Christmas at Hever Castle presents an immersive 'Land of Oz' themed experience, where visitors can follow the 'Yellow Brick Road' through enchanting displays and meet beloved characters. The stunning transformation of the castle and grounds includes magical light illuminations and optional visits with Father Christmas.
Highlights:
- Follow the 'Yellow Brick Road' through immersive 'Land of Oz' themed displays and character encounters.
- Experience the breathtaking transformation of the castle and grounds with magical light illuminations after dark.
- Meet Father Christmas for a special grotto visit (optional extra) and create lasting Christmas memories.
Belper Christmas Lights Switch On and Winter Food Festival
Location: Belper
Dates: Milford: Thursday 27th November 2025; Belper: Sunday 30th November 2025
Cost: FREE
The Belper Christmas Lights Switch On event features the annual illumination of the town's Christmas lights, complemented by a vibrant winter food festival showcasing seasonal treats and local produce. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the celebratory atmosphere as the lights are switched on.
Highlights:
- The annual Christmas lights switch-on event in Belper.
- A vibrant winter food festival offering seasonal treats and local produce.
- Enjoy a festive winter food festival with a variety of culinary delights.
Christmas at Kew
Location: Richmond
Dates: Selected dates, 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Cost: $$
Christmas at Kew Gardens features an acclaimed light trail that showcases spectacular new installations set against the stunning botanical backdrop. Visitors can also enjoy delicious street food and festive vendors, enhancing the overall experience during their visit.
Highlights:
- Experience a world of winter magic on an acclaimed light trail through the stunning Kew Gardens.
- Enjoy delicious street food and festive delights from various vendors along the trail and in the food court.
- Witness spectacular new light creations presented for the first time in the UK.
Ashridge House Illuminated
Location: Berkhamsted
Dates: November 27 - January 1
Cost: $$
Hertfordshire's largest Christmas light trail transforms the gardens of Ashridge House into a winter wonderland, featuring over 20 dazzling installations and a cozy Food Village offering seasonal treats. The event also includes dog-friendly evenings on Wednesdays and Thursdays for visitors to enjoy with their pets.
Address: Ashridge, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1NS
Phone: +44 (0) 1442 843491
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Hertfordshire's largest Christmas light trail, transforming the Ashridge House gardens into a winter wonderland.
- A festive Food Village providing a cozy break with a variety of seasonal food and drink options.
- Dog-friendly evenings every Wednesday and Thursday, allowing visitors to share the festive magic with their pets.
The 12 Days of Christmas Trail at Painshill
Location: Cobham
Dates: Until Sunday 5 January 2025. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Cost: $$
The 12 Days of Christmas Trail at Painshill features a Christmas trail set within a historic 18th-century landscape garden. Visitors can embark on a scavenger hunt to discover traditional wooden figures representing each of the 12 Days of Christmas while walking through Painshill's 160-acre grounds.
Highlights:
- A unique Christmas trail set within a beautiful 18th-century landscape garden.
- Family-friendly adventure with a nostalgic theme, perfect for all ages.
- Embark on a festive scavenger hunt to find all 12 gifts from the classic Christmas song.
Illuminate Guildford
Location: Guildford
Dates: November 15 - January 4
Cost: $$
Illuminate Guildford offers a new winter light trail winding through the historic grounds of Guildford Castle. Visitors will enjoy captivating light installations and artistic displays while sipping on warm beverages like hot chocolate and mulled wine, all within a leisurely 30-40 minute stroll.
Address: Castle St, Guildford GU1 3SX
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a unique winter light trail set in the heart of Guildford's town center.
- Explore a completely new route and light installations for the 2025 season.
- Enjoy warm beverages like hot chocolate and mulled wine while exploring the trail.
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Epping Ongar Lights Express
Location: Ongar
Dates: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings from November 15 to January 4, plus December 29, 30, and 31.
Cost: $$
The Epping Ongar Lights Express features an interactive steam train journey where passengers experience a spectacular light show synchronized to music. Each passenger receives an LED wristband that enhances the visual performance while being entertained by the 'Voiceover Man' with games and music.
Highlights:
- An interactive journey on a steam train featuring a spectacular light show synchronized to music.
- Interactive LED wristbands provided to each passenger, syncing with the music to create a dynamic light show.
- Festive entertainment hosted by 'Voiceover Man', adding humor and interactive games to the journey.
Knutsford Christmas Light Switch On
Location: Knutsford
Dates: 15 November
Cost: FREE
The Knutsford Christmas Light Switch On features an annual ceremony where the Mayor and Santa officially illuminate the town center. This event is complemented by live music and performances from local artists, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees.
Highlights:
- The annual Christmas light switch-on ceremony, marking the start of the festive season.
- An afternoon filled with live music and performances from local artists.
- Enjoy live entertainment from local musicians, dance troupes, performers, and choirs starting at 4 PM.
The Magical Christmas Grotto at Chessington Garden Centre
Location: Chessington
Dates: November 15 - December 24, 2025 (specific times vary)
Cost: $$
The Magical Christmas Grotto at Chessington Garden Centre offers a private meeting with Santa Claus after a festive train journey to the North Pole. Visitors can also explore Santa's Yard filled with live reindeer and enjoy a variety of enchanting scenes.
Address: Chessington
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A private meeting with Santa Claus in a magical grotto.
- A festive train ride to the North Pole.
- Unlimited access to Santa's Yard with live reindeer and a crackling fire.
Hobbledown Santa's Secret Village
Location: Epsom
Dates: November 29 - December 24, 2025
Cost: $$$
Hobbledown Santa's Secret Village offers an immersive Christmas journey where families can meet Santa Claus in his grotto and receive a special gift. The event includes access to the Hobbledown Adventure Park, featuring magical locations like Santa's Post Office.
Highlights:
- Experience a fully immersive Christmas journey designed for families.
- Meet Santa Claus in his grotto and receive a special gift.
- Enjoy a festive day out with full access to Hobbledown Adventure Park.
Chessington Winter's Tail
Location: Chessington
Dates: Selected dates – 22 Nov – 31 Dec
Cost: $$
Chessington Winter's Tail invites visitors to immerse themselves in a Christmas Village featuring rides, animals, and festive entertainment. Guests can meet Santa in his grotto and explore a sparkling light trail throughout the resort.
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in the Christmas Village for a complete festive experience.
- Enjoy a magical Christmas day out with rides, animals, and festive entertainment.
- Book a festive short break with themed hotel stays and exclusive benefits.
Leonardslee Lights: A Midwinter Light's Dream
Location: Horsham
Dates: Selected evenings between 28 November - 30 December 2025
Cost: $$
Leonardslee Lights: A Midwinter Light's Dream presents a stunning light and sound trail through Grade I listed woodland. Visitors can enjoy immersive installations created by acclaimed artists and encounter performers who enhance the magical experience.
Highlights:
- A dazzling new route through Grade I listed woodland realms, illuminated with light, music, and theatrical flair.
- Immersive installations created by acclaimed artists and sound designers, including Ithaca Studio and Dan Fox.
- Interactive performances by ThirdSpace, bringing characters like faeries and lantern bearers to life.
Chelsea Winter Illuminations
Location: London
Dates: November 26 to December 28, 2025
Cost: $$
Chelsea Winter Illuminations is the only light trail in Central London, featuring spectacular large-scale installations and sensory moments across the historic grounds. After exploring the illuminated gardens, visitors can warm up in the festive village with food, drinks, and live music.
Address: Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4SR
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The only light trail in Central London
- Spectacular large-scale installations and sensory moments
- Festive village with food, drinks, and live music
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in London.