As we’re coming close to yuletide the capital city is brimming with lights and Christmas spirit. You might worry that some of the bigger events have already finished but here are 10 spots still filled with choirs, lights and events.
Covent Garden
Already a central location of designer shops, artisan stores and some of the best food both restaurant and market, Covent garden is magical during Christmas time. The area has unique stalls selling everything from traditional Christmas sweets to hand-made decorations inside and out the historic piazza and topped with a 55-foot Christmas tree. The area glitters with 115,000 lights and if you look around you can enjoy some of London’s best pubs.
Royal Albert Hall
Throughout December tickets are still available in one of London’s most beautiful and historic live music venues. There are still tickets available for carols and orchestra pieces. Located near Hyde Park it’s also a great place to explore some of the sights and landmarks of central London.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
Near The National Gallery, by Charing Cross, St Martin-in-the-Fields is an Anglican church with a spectacular Christmas tree outside, market and carols throughout December. The church itself holds daily concerts and sermons with its famous Café in the Crypt and charity shop still open. Come down for traditional mince pies and mulled wine and even a full Christmas Dinner available in the café until Christmas Eve.
Westminster Abbey
There are a number of holy services occurring on the 23rd, 24th, and 25th of December at Westminster abbey. Booking is required through their website however there is no payment needed. However, if you simply want to see the lights around central London, or visit the a market like Covent Garden, simply visiting Westminster abbey is a viable option as it is close by public transport. It is of course of incredible design and one of the capital’s most famous landmarks having been founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD.
St Paul’s
St Paul’s Cathedral is often top of the list for any tourist in London. It is an architectural wonder 1400 years old, standing tall in the middle of central London. During December the public can attend a number of carols and sermons, or you can simply come for sightseeing. Be sure to check its website and pick an appropriate time.
Trafalgar Square
Since 1947 the people of Norway have gifted London with a Christmas tree. You can see this 20 metre tree each season at Trafalgar Square. Until the 21st of December there are over 40 carol singing groups to entertain visitors. It’s certainly worth a visit to see the famous square and enjoy all the scenery.
Oxford Street
Even if you missed the official lighting ceremony the Christmas lights in Oxford Street are a must for Christmas in London. This year there are 1,778 lights illuminating the central shopping high street with the usual white lights to mimic snowflakes as well has huge purple baubles. It’s a great place to also check out the best designer stores in London and after the holidays it’s rammed with January sales.
Southbank Centre
From November 9th all the way till January 6th 2019 the Southbank centre is a hub of markets, workshops, carols, performances and much more. Located near the Tate Modern on the river Thames this winter wonderland is great place to check out if you decided to see St Paul’s, as you can simply walk the Millennium bridge over. The winter market is free to visit are many of the other attractions at the Southbank Centre.
