13 Festive Christmas Light Tours in London in 2026

READY TO BOOK THE BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR IN LONDON?

Looking for the best Christmas lights tours in London this holiday season, you have come to the right place!

London is truly one of the best and most magical places to experience Christmas. There is so much to do and see and so many incredible light displays scattered all over the city.

In this guide, I will share the best Christmas light tours in London from bus tours to walking tours, there is so many magical way to experience the magic of Christmas in the city.

Since London is such a popular Christmas destination, there are so many tours to choose from.

That’s why I am here to help!

Below you will find the 13 top-rated Christmas light tours in London

My Top 3 Picks: Best Christmas Light Tours in London

13 Best Christmas Light Tours in London

1. London by Night Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and Live Guide

⭐️ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

There’s something magical about seeing London all lit up for Christmas, and honestly, the best way to take it all in is from the top deck of an open-top bus. The tour takes you past all the big landmarks and famous shopping streets.

“The lights are impressive and worth seeing – most of the time allots for traffic through the city. Ash was knowledgeable and told us the true story behind Piccadilly! Lilies being grown around the animal market was very enlightening! Caesar was a great driver and navigated us very well through the city. It can be very cold, so bring your hand warmers!” – read more reviews

Plus, you’ve got a guide telling you stories about London’s history as you cruise around. The whole experience lasts about 60-90 minutes and is the perfect way to experience the magic of London during the holidays.

2. Christmas Lights and Markets Guided Walking Tour with Mulled Wine

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

If you want to see London at its absolute festive best, this walking tour hits all the right spots. You’ll kick things off in Covent Garden, wandering through the Christmas market stalls and popping into cute boutiques before stumbling upon a tucked-away garden lit up with old Victorian gas lamps.

The route takes you through some of the same narrow alleyways that Charles Dickens used to walk, and your guide will fill you in on how the Victorians invented the Christmas we all know and love today. You’ll hear stories about holiday traditions that have been going strong for centuries,

“The Christmas lights and markets excursion was no rush, full of dynamic and great stories! Tom was expressive, artistic and fun guide we simply fell in love with! He took thorough care of us as individuals and a group in that way we became friends by the end of the tour. Highly recommended!” – read more reviews

The tour wraps up at Trafalgar Square, where you’ll get a complimentary glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate to warm you up. I did this tour and it was fantastic! It felt like we were exploring with a friend rather than a guide.

3. London Christmas Lights Bike Tour with Local Guide

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

If you want to cover loads of ground, hopping on a bike is the way to go. This evening tour takes you whizzing through all the best Christmas light displays across London.

You’ll cycle through the main shopping areas: Oxford Street with its massive light installations overhead, past Harrods with their ridiculously over-the-top window displays, and all the other spots that go crazy with all the Christmas decorations.

“Amazing way to cover a lot of ground and see a lot of things in a brief period of time! We were lucky to have a clear evening and enjoyed all the Christmas and historical sights.” – read more reviews

The tour finishes up at the South Bank Christmas Market, which is perfect timing because by then you’ll probably fancy a browse through the wooden chalets, maybe grab a mulled cider or some festive treats.

4. Christmas Lights Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Relax on a classic double-decker bus for 90 minutes, cruising past all the famous Christmas displays on Oxford Street and Regent Street while tucking into a festive afternoon tea.

The menu includes finger sandwiches like smoked turkey with cranberry jam and smoked salmon with tarragon crème fraiche, savory bites like Stilton and pear tart, and festive sweets including mulled wine macarons, mini chocolate yule logs, and gingerbread stars.

“What a wonderful trip. The value for money was exceptional. The food was delicious, the staff were so friendly and went over and above. The commentary was so informative and the whole thing finished way too soon as it flew by. I have been for many afternoon teas and I have to say that this one was one of the best as it wasn’t too sweet and the finger sandwiches were so fresh. The other lovely touches were the bits to take home as a keepsake along with the doggie bags for the food that we couldn’t eat. We are already wanting to re book for next year but bring more of our friends with us.” – read more reviews

You’ll also get freshly baked Christmas scones with cranberries and nutmeg, served with clotted cream and strawberry jam. It’s the ultimate way to see London’s Christmas lights without freezing your toes off.

5. Big Bus London Christmas Lights Tour with optional London Eye

⭐️ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

See London’s Christmas lights from the best seats in the house: the top deck of an open-top double-decker bus. This festive tour takes you past all the major holiday displays, from the famous lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street to the elegant window displays at London’s iconic department stores. You’ll also cruise by the massive Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square and see landmarks like Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.

“Excellent evening trip!! We were shown so much and greatly entertained by the knowledgeable bus host. We didn’t know London was so very vibrant at Christmas. We plan to spend more time there next Christmas” – read more reviews

Your guide provides commentary throughout the journey, sharing Christmas stories and fun facts, while seasonal music plays in the background to get you in the holiday mood.

6. The Christmas Lights and Bites Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours and 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Experience London’s Christmas magic on this small-group walking tour led by a local guide who’ll show you the best festive spots around the city. You’ll explore Christmas markets, sample seasonal snacks and enjoy lunch along the way, watch street performers, see the famous Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, and pass by the London Eye.

“Absolutely AMAZING Evening with Paddy!! He was the BEST tour guide we have ever had in all the places we have traveled!! The tour was a blast with tons of interesting information! Would 1000 percent recommend this tour and Paddy the best” – read more reviews

Your guide shares interesting facts and stories about London as you stroll, and you’ll have time to do some Christmas shopping at the markets too.

7. London Christmas Lights Guided Tour With Christmas Music


⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour and 45 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Take in London’s Christmas lights on this unique walking tour where everyone wears wireless headphones playing festive music as you stroll. Your guide leads you through the best-decorated areas like Regent Street, Oxford Street, Neal’s Yard, and Seven Dials, sharing stories and local holiday traditions along the way.

“The guides were amazing and made this tour! We saw a lot of lights but what really made it were the people! I highly recommend to anyone who wants to see London in a fun way!” – read more reviews

This is a fun twist on the typical Christmas lights tour and is perfect whether you’re going solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family to see London’s holiday displays.

8. London Christmas Carol & Charles Dickens Small Group Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 to 3 hours | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Step into the world of Charles Dickens on this small-group walking tour that brings “A Christmas Carol” to life. You’ll explore the hidden alleys, historic courtyards, and old taverns that Dickens knew well. Your guide takes you to locations featured in Dickens’ stories, including one of London’s oldest pubs where Dickens and the notorious Hellfire Club used to meet.

“Richard Chambers led our group on a fact-filled tour of the locales in the life of Charles Dickens, and their influence on his works. He let us in on the real-life people and places that shaped the locations and people in his stories with the skill of a true detective. If you want to know, you have to take the tour with him! Ps give this guy a raise!” – read more reviews

It’s not your typical Christmas tour, you’ll hear stories and discover cozy spots that don’t make it into guidebooks.

9. London Christmas Lights Guided Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

London goes all out with Christmas lights during the festive season, but figuring out which areas have the best displays can be overwhelming. This walking tour takes the guesswork out by hitting all the top spots: Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, Carnaby Street, and more, so you see the city at its most magical without missing anything.

“A fun festive walk…lovely to see the Christmas lights of London from a different perspective. Our guide was knowledgeable and we had a wonderful few hours exploring and finding out lots of interesting facts. Thank you!”– read more reviews

Your guide shares stories about English Christmas traditions as you walk, and being on foot means you can actually stop to take photos and appreciate the details instead of just rushing past on a bus. It’s a great way to see London transformed for the holidays, especially after dark when all the lights really come alive.

10. Magical London Christmas Lights Tour in Street-Legal Karts

⭐️ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Experience London’s Christmas lights in the most unique way possible by driving your own street-legal electric go-kart through the city. You’ll cruise past iconic landmarks all lit up for the holidays.

“We had a great time zipping about in these little cars. Roomier than we thought and very easy to use. Being able to go wherever we wanted was great. Raj gave us a couple of walkie talkies so we could talk to our friends in the other car which made it entertaining. Our only suggestion would be possibly to have an in car GPS so we didn’t have to use our phone and instead use then take photos. Thank you – they were awesome!“– read more reviews

The karts are fully electric and covered, so you’ll stay warm and dry even if the weather’s terrible. You can go at your own pace and stop for photos. This is probably one of the coolest ways to experience London’s light displays.

11. London Christmas Lights Private Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2-3 hours | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

See London’s famous Christmas lights on a private walking tour customized just for you and your group. You can choose either an afternoon or evening start time depending on what works best for your schedule, then explore the city’s best festive displays with your own personal guide.

“Great experience! Our tour guide, Michael, was very knowledgeable about the city of London. The Christmas lights were beautiful and lots of fun facts with them too! Highly recommend!“– read more reviews

You’ll hit all the highlights Trafalgar Square, Carnaby Street, Covent Garden, and other spots with plenty of time to stop for photos and hear stories about London’s holiday traditions.

12. Christmas Lights and Markets London Taxi Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

See London’s Christmas lights and markets from the comfort of a classic black taxi on this private tour that fits up to six people. Your driver will take you around the city’s best festive displays and holiday markets, stopping at the prettiest spots so you can hop out for photos.

“Glen was the absolute best! Made us feel like Instagram models! Hands down the best tour we have ever taken. The beauty of the Christmas lights plus the amazing bits of history/trivia he added were just perfection! Will absolutely be booking again next time we are in London!“– read more reviews

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel and since it’s private, you can customize the route if there’s something specific you want to see. This tour is perfect for families or small groups who want to experience London at Christmas without the hassle of big group tours.

13. Christmas Delights: Festive Tea & Doughnuts at Borough Market

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 minutes | 🎄 Check Rates and Availability

Experience London’s festive atmosphere while sampling some of the city’s best doughnuts on this guided food tour through Borough Market. Your local guide will take you to top spots like St. John Bakery and Crosstown London Bridge. Along the way, you’ll hear interesting facts about the area’s history, learn about great restaurants and pubs, and get insider tips on hidden gems around the market.

“Did this tour on December 3 with Luke as my guide. I love doing tours that are a little different when I travel and this do not to or was excellent. Not only did I get to eat lots of delicious donuts but I learned a lot about an area of london that I have not explored before. Luke was an excellent guide, it ended up just beings me an the tour which I have had happen before and those were awkward.. This was not awkward due to Luke being a great guide, and keeping up a stream of facts and conversation. Also, a shoot out to Frankie at the teashop we went to. Super helpful. Would highly reccomend.“– read more reviews

It’s a small group tour, so you’ll meet other travelers and have plenty of chances to ask questions.

Where to Stay in London

Book accommodation in London by searching for hotels below!

Christmas Light Tours in London: FAQ

When do the Christmas lights go on in London?

The Christmas lights in London typically switch on in mid-November. The lights generally stay up until early January, usually the first week or so after New Year, so you’ve got a solid six weeks or so to catch them.

The big department stores like Harrods and Selfridges often unveil their window displays around the same time, sometimes even a bit earlier in November since they’re massive installations.

What should I wear on a Christmas light tour?

Weather in London can be a bit weird, so I would recommend wearing layers. If you’re on an open-top bus, it will be colder, so bring a coat, scarf, and gloves. Walking tours are a bit more forgiving since you’re moving, but it’s still December in London, so dress warmly.

How long do these tours usually last?

Most are between 60-90 minutes for bus tours, and walking tours can be anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the route.

How crowded are the tours?

Depends on which one you book. Some tours cap it at 10-15 people, others cram 40+ people on a big bus.

Are the tours accessible?

It varies by tour operator, so best to check directly with them when booking.

Are food and drinks included?

Depends on the tour. Afternoon tea buses include a full spread, some walking tours give you mulled wine. If you want food on the tour, make sure you book a food tour!

Is there a toilet on the bus tours?

Nope. Go before you leave because you’re on there for a while. Be mindful, especially on the afternoon tea bus tours because you get unlimited.drinks.

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Travel Resources

First off, if you want to browse all my favorite travel resources, check out my Travel Resources page.

Trip Planning: I have put together the ultimate trip planning guide that will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip.

Book your Flight: Check out Momondo! They are my go to for booking flights. Airfarewatchdog is also a favorite of mine. I get notified by email every time there is a good deal from my local airport. WayAway is also a good option. They list mistake fares so many times, you can get an international ticket for as little as $300!

Book your Transportation: Busbud is usually where I check first. They check hundreds of different transportation companies all over the world and find you the best bus deal. Flixbus is one of my favorite cheap options for Europe. The buses generally aren’t too bad, and they go to most countries around Europe. It’s the perfect option for short distances. Train travel is my favorite mode of transportation, and I always use Rail Europe to book my tickets. If you need a transfer from the airport or if you are going somewhere where transport is limited (like a festival in the middle of nowhere or even a day trip) Welcome Pickups is a great option. I have used them on multiple occasions, and you can book a ride 5 hours in advance!

Book your Accommodation: My number one is Booking. If you book enough hotels from them, you can get huge discounts and perks like free breakfast and room upgrade. On a budget and looking for cheap accommodation? Hostelworld is my preferred site to book cheap and reliable hostels. Hotwire has a fun mystery to it. It’s a great site to use for last-minute bookings. They don’t actually tell you the name of the hotel when you are browsing. You will just get the area of the city it’s in, the price, and how many stars it has. I love the surprise aspect of it! Traveling to Asia? Agoda is the best accommodation booking site! If you are traveling with a big group, Vrbo is a good option. They have a huge selection of vacation rentals. Hotellook allows you to compare hotel prices around the world, so you can find the best deal!

Book your Travel Insurance: Getting travel insurance is such a crucial part of preparing for a trip. You never know what could happen, and why take the risk? Before I travel anywhere, I always book my insurance through Visitors Coverage.

Book your Activities: Now, you have planned all the logistics, time to think about what you will do once you get to your destination! These are a few of my favorite trip planning sites. I always use Get Your Guide and Viator when I am looking for tours. If you are traveling to Asia, Klook is widely used to book activities. Go City sells tickets to top attractions for up to 65% off. Eat With allows you to book dinners or cooking classes with local families. If you enjoy self-guided walking tours, We Go Trip has audio guides you can download. Big Bus Tours offers open-top sightseeing tours.

Store Your Luggage: Do you have a long layover or a late flight and need to store your luggage? Radical Storage has got you covered.

Get an eSim: Airlalo has been an amazing way for me to stay connected on the road. They have eSims in 200 countries and set up is super easy.