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It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas trip to London with so much going on in the capital. From shopping on the famous Oxford Street to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, you can enjoy all the festivities and celebrations in the capital this year.
If its high-end luxury you’re after, look no further. Located in Knightsbridge, Harrods provides 7 floors with 330 departments to indulge in. You’ll have plenty of designer brands to choose from as well as a fantastic food hall for edible gifts. You also don’t want to miss the famous department store illuminated with thousands of lights, one of the most festive sights to see on any trip to London.
Shopping
You definitely won’t be short of places to buy this year’s presents in London. Options include a wide selection of independent shops and markets selling unique gifts, along with huge department stores with plenty of choice, so you’ll find presents for even the trickiest of people to buy for.
1. Oxford Street
Nearest tube stations: Oxford Circus, Bond Street, Marble Arch, Piccadilly Circus, Tottenham Court RoadOxford Street is perfect for the shopaholics among us. It can be busy but if you don’t mind a crowd, it’s a great location for visiting various shops in one trip, including flagship stores like Next, H&M, Niketown and Marks and Spencer. You're within walking distance to Regent Street if you’re looking for more high-end options as well as other popular locations such as Leicester Square, China Town and Trafalgar Square for when you need a break to sightsee.
2. Covent Garden
Nearest tube stations: Covent Garden & Leicester Square
Not only is Covent Garden a brilliant destination all year round, but it’s even more special come Christmas time. The iconic Christmas transformation is set to return this November 2023, turning it into a truly festive experience. The open air piazza is fully pedestrianised, and it offers so much to see and do, from food and drink to a variety of shops to choose from.
Not only is Covent Garden a brilliant destination all year round, but it’s even more special come Christmas time. The iconic Christmas transformation is set to return this November 2023, turning it into a truly festive experience. The open air piazza is fully pedestrianised, and it offers so much to see and do, from food and drink to a variety of shops to choose from.
3. Selfridges
Nearest tube stations: Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford CircusWith 9 floors worth of browsing, you are bound to find all the gifts you need all in one place. You’ll find this impressive department store at 400 Oxford Street, the perfect location for Christmas shopping. Discover more about how Selfridges are making Christmas extra special this year on the Selfridges website.
4. Harrods
Nearest tube station: KnightsbridgeIf its high-end luxury you’re after, look no further. Located in Knightsbridge, Harrods provides 7 floors with 330 departments to indulge in. You’ll have plenty of designer brands to choose from as well as a fantastic food hall for edible gifts. You also don’t want to miss the famous department store illuminated with thousands of lights, one of the most festive sights to see on any trip to London.
5. Carnaby Street
Nearest tube stations: Oxford Circus & Piccadilly CircusThis trendy and popular shopping area is made up of 14 pedestrianised streets, perfect for discovering boutiques, pop ups and British brands. You’ll also find over 60 different restaurants, bars and cafes here making it easy to do everything in one place. Not only that, but you’ll also get to witness the 2023 Christmas light display which is always unmissable on a festive trip to the capital.
Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are popular attractions for the festive season all over the UK and are great for all the family. They offer a range of present ideas, food, drink and unique trinkets – perfect for getting those last-minute gifts for friends and family. Whether you are visiting London for a day or staying a little longer, why not enjoy the festivities at a market to get into the Christmas spirit.
1. Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park, 17th November 2023 to 1st January 2024London’s biggest Christmas Market, Winter Wonderland, showcases over 100 Bavarian-style wooden chalet market stalls. Situated in London’s Hyde Park, this market has plenty of space to offer a range entertainment with rides, retail, food and drink options for all. A popular attraction to many of London’s tourists and visitors, this Christmas market will have you inspired by the various gift ideas from tasty festive treats to handmade jewellery and Christmas accessories. You’ll have to prebook before arriving. Entry is free during off-peak periods or is £5 or £7.50 during peak times.
2. Winter by the River
London Bridge City, 19th November 2023 to 1st January 2024
Enjoy meandering through the many traditional stalls whilst admiring the City of London skyline views including Tower Bridge as this markets’ backdrop. Winter by the River is located along The Queen’s Walk, along the banks of the River Thames. Offering a winning combination of homemade gifts and delicious food, Winter by the River is one of London’s best Christmas markets! Not only can you experience a Christmas market as you know it, with over 60 boutique and independent vendors and two pop up bars to enjoy. New for 2023 is the ‘Karaoke at the Pier’ experience!
Enjoy meandering through the many traditional stalls whilst admiring the City of London skyline views including Tower Bridge as this markets’ backdrop. Winter by the River is located along The Queen’s Walk, along the banks of the River Thames. Offering a winning combination of homemade gifts and delicious food, Winter by the River is one of London’s best Christmas markets! Not only can you experience a Christmas market as you know it, with over 60 boutique and independent vendors and two pop up bars to enjoy. New for 2023 is the ‘Karaoke at the Pier’ experience!
3. Christmas in Leicester Square
Leicester Square, 8th November 2023 to 7th January 2024Located in the centre of bustling Leicester Square, see this iconic central space turn into a traditional Christmas market for the festive season. You can enter this market for free and expect a range of hand-crafted trinkets, and brilliant food and drink. Treat yourself to some festive delicacies or a warming mulled wine to keep you toasty on the Winter evenings. Christmas in Leicester Square will showcase some fantastic, ticketed attractions – you can see more information on their website. You’ll find yourself in the heart of London’s West End with even more festivities to enjoy on your visit.
4. Kingdom of Winter
ExCel London, 8th December 2023 to 7th January 2024
Looking for an indoor option with the family? Kingdom of Winter is an ideal destination to take the whole family to! Expect an alpine-style Christmas market and a winter themed circus along with ice skating, fairground rides and much more. It promises to bring festive joy all under one roof! Book your tickets in advance today - book here.
Advance tickets are available on the Hull Trains website and app throughout December 2023 and January 2024. Book your Christmas trip now to get the best fares!
