london tour christmas lights

Returning December 2024!

The classic tour is pleased to present our christmas special – a christmas lights experience.

Jump on board our classic open top Routemaster bus, which has been decked out (pardon the pun) in Christmas décor to get you in the festive mood! We will take you on a tour to see London’s most iconic Christmas light attractions including the famous Oxford street, Harrods and Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. We look forward to seeing you on our Vintage Christmas Lights Tour of London.

Please be aware that due to the nature of London traffic and road closures it may not always be possible to see every landmark advertised on the route. We will always try our best to warn customers if this is the case but it may not always be possible.

Our tours run daily from November 17th 2023 at:

Additional tours may be available at

16:45, 19:00 & 20:30

Ticket Types

We are a family friendly tour offering a fun and quirky way to see London. All of our Christmas Lights tickets guarantee a top deck seat!

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St Paul’s Cathedral, London, is an Anglican cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. It sits on Ludgate Hill at the highest point of the City of London and is a Grade 1 listed building.

Trafalgar Square is a public square in the City of Westminster, Central London, built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. Its name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars with France and Spain that took place on 21 October 1805 off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Spain.

Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning.

Westminster Abbey, formally titled the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, is a large, mainly Gothic abbey church in the City of Westminster, London, just to the west of the Palace of Westminster.

The Shard, also referred to as the Shard of Glass, Shard London Bridge and formerly London Bridge Tower, is a 95-storey skyscraper in Southwark, London, that forms part of the London Bridge Quarter development. Standing 309.7 metres (1,016 ft) high, the Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, the fourth-tallest building in Europe and the 111th-tallest building in the world.

The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. It lies within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, separated from the eastern edge of the square mile of the City of London by the open space known as Tower Hill.

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. The structure is 443 feet (135 m) tall and the wheel has a diameter of 394 feet (120 m). When it opened to the public in 2000 it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel.

Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London built between 1886 and 1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London, resulting in it sometimes being confused with London Bridge, situated some 0.5 mi (0.80 km) upstream

Downing Street is a street in London, United Kingdom, known for housing the official residences and offices of the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. “Downing Street” is used as a metonym for the Government of the United Kingdom.

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London Christmas Tours- AWARD WINNING

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Tour Description

London's ORIGINAL and only FULLY THEMED Christmas tours return once again for the 2023 holiday season. Christmas in London is always a special treat. As evening falls, the capital is magically transformed into a winter wonderland. Shoppers crowd up the old streets under a canopy of holiday lights while carolers take to the squares and market corners, filling the air with songs of happy golden days of yore ....

What's Included?

• London's Original Christmas Tours: Fully guided and much more than just the lights
• Not Just A Drive: Only tours to include the stories and traditions behind a London Christmas
• See the best of the London Christmas lights and decorations
• Soothing background Christmas music plays to get into the spirit of the season
• FREE collection and return to your central London hotel (Private Tours Only) & Winter Wonderland
• Exclusive to London Magical Tours: Driver/Guide or Tour Team (Tour Guide plus additional Chauffeur)
• Two Tour Options for 2023: Private and Scheduled Group Tours Available

Learn more about the London Magical Tours Difference

• Private Magical London Tour (3 hours)
• Scheduled London Christmas Lights Bus Tour (2.5 hours)

GENERAL INFORMATION

A London Magical Tours exclusive, our Christmas themed tours are the only sightseeing experience to focus purely on the best of the holiday season in one of the world's greatest cities. 2023 sees visitors choose from two Christmas Tour offerings - a Private Tour and a Scheduled Small Group Tour running from Winter Wonderland Hyde Park on select dates:

PRIVATE TOUR

The Magical Christmas London Tour (3 hours). From £116.50pp 14th November 2023 - 6th January 2024. Includes free hotel collection and return. The complete holiday experience, a private tour to learn and discover the best of Christmas in London. See the beautiful Christmas lights and decorations, with extended stops made to go outside of the vehicle with your personal tour guide to learn all about the Christmas stories, with plenty of opportunities for photographs. This tour enters many off-the-beaten-path traditional Victorian side streets, with opportunities for escorted visits to Hamleys Toy Store, Harrods Christmas World and much more, providing a personal Christmas London experience to suit all ages. Click here for details on the Private Magical London Tour (3 hours)

SHARED SCHEDULED BUS TOUR

The London Christmas Lights Tour (2 hours 30 mins). From £89pp Next Available: Saturdays in December 2023 from Winter Wonderland Hyde Park - SOLD OUT. Don't mind sharing with other travelers? For limited dates from December you can join one of our scheduled tours to discover the best of the central London Christmas lights and holiday decorations. Groups are limited in number for a semi-personal experience. Includes collection and return to Winter Wonderland Hyde Park. Click here for Scheduled Group Tour dates and times.

LONDON CHRISTMAS TOURS BLOG

Visit the London Magical Tours blog to read comments and feedback from last years tours together with the latest Christmas videos and tour updates throughout the holiday season: London Christmas Tours Blog Updates London Christmas Tours Reviews from previous years

Tour Extras

Service levels.

Platinum VIP

Platinum Plus VIP

Meal options.

Fish and Chips Pub Option

Two Course Pub Option

Three Course Pub Option

Express Afternoon Tea Option

VIP Afternoon Tea Option

Tour prices.

Click here to see pricing for the Private Magical Christmas London Tour (3 hours) Click here to see pricing for the Scheduled Bus London Christmas Lights Tours (2.5 hours).

There are no hidden extras: prices include your private tour guide, your chauffeur, private vehicle, parking fees, collection and return to your central Manhattan hotel or Grand Central Station, and all taxes. We do not charge additional fees for card payments. Lunch/Entrance fees not included. Internet prices include a discount for online bookings. Prices are according to your party size. For example, the cost of the Half Day London Tour is $449 for a party of 5, which works out at $89.80 per person. At less than $90 pp, private tours are amazing value, offering a personal experience for less than the cost of bus tours

Normal Price

Online price (save £20).

More than 6 passengers? Benefit from our group savings for 7 to 100+ passengers: please see Private London Group Tours.

More than 5 passengers? Benefit from our group savings for 6 to 100+ passengers:please see Private London Group Tours. On transit through London? See Our London Layover Tours

Tour Comments

This is our 2nd time touring with London Magical Tours - it's been a really great experience! l learned a lot and enjoyed it a lot and so did my family.

The Johnston Family, USA

It was an amazing experience - we had the opportunity of learning so much while seeing the sights. We had a great time and highly recommend the tour.

Mrs. Dubose, USA

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Christmas Lights Bus Tour London 2024

Our Christmas Lights bus tour of London takes you around London’s most breathtaking landmarks spectacularly lit up at night. You’ll travel in an open-top bus, with multiple departure times from 4pm until 9pm. Discover sites as you’ve never seen them before, including Trafalgar Square, Regent Street, Big Ben and more. This is a guided tour, with a professional tour guide on board an open-top bus who’ll give you the fascinating history of London’s historic buildings. The tour lasts 1hr 30m and is sure to put you into the festive spirit.

Our Christmas lights bus tour of London is available from November until  January.

highlights:

• Discover the beauty of London at Christmas time on an open-top bus tour
• See the famous Christmas lights on Regent Street and all over London
• See London’s popular festive spot of Southbank with its pretty Christmas market
• Admire London’s famous landmarks lit up. Highlights include Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London Eye and more…
• Take in the beautiful Christmas shop window displays, including along Regent Street
• Learn more about the sites, historical buildings, and London at Christmas time with an expert guide

Regent Street:

The Angel Christmas Light on Regent Street

Every year London’s famous shopping streets are transformed at Christmas time, with hundreds of thousands of light bulbs turning the streets into a breathtaking luminary spectacle. Each year focuses on a different theme, and is sure to delight with dazzling designs and wonderous sets.

Trafalgar Square:

Every year since 1947, the city of Oslo in Norway has gifted the United Kingdom a Christmas tree, in honour of Britain’s support of Norway during World War II. What is known as the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree is over 20 metres high and is dressed in a traditional Norweigan style, with 500 white lights. The lighting of the Christmas tree takes place annually on the first Thursday in December and is accompanied by carol singing.

Departure points:

There are 3 departure points to choose from. You will see the same Christmas lights on both routes. The only difference is the pickup point.

• Departure/Return point : London Eye, Belvedere Road, Tourist bus, London, SE1. You can see a route map here
• Departure/Return point : Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, 123-151 Buckingham Palace Rd, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SR.
• Departure/Return Point: Green Park Station, Piccadilly, Tourist Bus Stop, London W1J 9DZ.

You can see a route map, including the departure & return points here >>>

more details:

• The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes
• You cannot hop on and hop off on this tour
• Cancel your reservation within 24 hours of the departure time and get a refund in full.
• The tour departs every half hour, from 4pm until 9pm from  November  until January
• This is a guided tour in English.
• Seating on the bus is on a first come, first served basis. Downstairs seating is also available if preferred.
• Food and drinks are not permitted on the bus other than bottled water.
• There are Christmas Light bus tours of London 2024 available on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
• Children aged 0 – 4 years travel free of charge but will not occupy a seat. If you require a seat for an infant, please purchase a child seat for them.

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

From London: Christmas Lunch, Oxford & Stratford-upon-Avon

London Bus on Christmas Day - Hop on Hop off

Christmas Eve in London with Dinner & Midnight Mass

From London: Christmas Lunch, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover & More

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7 London Christmas Lights Tours

This post provides you with a listing of the best Christmas-themed tours in London, including our  pay-what-you-like Holiday Lights tour, Christmas bus tours, and even a Christmas bike tour!

This post has the 2024 dates where available.

• Walking Tours

Be sure to also check out our other London X-mas related posts:

• Christmas in London
• Christmas Shows  
• Best Christmas Lights Displays
• Things to Do in London

WALKING TOURS

This section will cover the more popular London Christmas walking tours you can take.

While some of these tours focus on holiday lighting displays, others are designed to take you back to the days of Charles Dickens's London in celebration of his classic tale A Christmas Carol .

Free Tours By Foot

Welcome to London’s first pay-what-you-like Christmas Tour!

This tour will take you down some of the cities’ most iconic streets to see world-famous Christmas lights and holiday displays.

Beginning in Covent Garden, your guide will lead you underneath sparkling lights, hanging wreaths, past stunning Christmas trees, and glorious ice-skating rinks.

Reservations:   Click here to reserve .

You’ll learn some of Britains’ holiday traditions.

Find out what a Pantomime is, how Freddie Mercury helped decorate Carnaby Street this year, what Norway has to do with Trafalgar Squares’ Christmas tree.

Or learn why Shakespeare hated Christmas and why we have Prince Albert to thank for our obsession with holiday lights!

Join us as we walk through Bavarian Christmas markets, tread the cobbled streets of the beautifully decorated Covent Garden, and travel centuries back in time to uncover all of London’s Christmas season secrets.

Take in all that our city has to offer this Christmas with Free Tours By Foot!

Locations Visited

• Regent Street
• Carnaby Street
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• Covent Garden

Tour information

Where:   Tour begins in Covent Garden. The exact location will be provided upon booking. 

Duration:  2 hours.

When:  Our tour runs every day but Tuesdays from the 23rd November to 24th December 2023.

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. 

If you’re more interested in learning about the history of street art in this city, make sure to check our list of pay-what-you-wish London Walking Tours .

Christmas on the Southbank Tour

Visit the Christmas Markets and hear about the history of Christmas and feasting as we look at the origins of our festive food and the history of the Southbank area.

This walk will cover the amazing leisure area of the Southbank, from London Eye to London Bridge, but will include some Christmas twists.

There will be a chance to buy some Christmas food and mulled drinks as we go along our way!

What else you should know

It's a walking tour, but there's not a lot of distance involved. Having said that there are a small number of steps to climb throughout. Wear comfortable shoes! 

You will need to pay for your own drinks during the tour! Note that many vendors are now only accepting card payments.

• Southbank Centre Winter Markets
• Borough Market
• Christmas by the River at London Bridge City
• Houses of Parliament
• River Thames
• National Theatre
• Gabriel's Wharf
• Millennium Bridge  (Wobbly Bridge)
• Tate Modern
• Globe Theatre
• London Bridge
• Tower Bridge

Tour Information

Where: Jubilee Gardens near the London Eye. Use Google Maps by searching for 'Jubilee Gardens'  ( map )

When:  Dates of 2023 are yet TBD, but last year, tour ran every day but Tuesday from the 24th November to 24th December.

The Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’ Walk

For many people, the holiday season can’t really begin without enjoying at least one version of the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol.

This tour is specifically for this audience which provides a lot of interesting information about both the author and the times in which his novel was written.

As you walk through London, a professional guide in full Victorian-era attire will describe what the city once looked like during the time period when the characters of this story would have been alive.

While walking through some of the more historic areas of this city, you’ll see locations that may have inspired Dickens.

• £12 per person
• Duration: 1 ½ - 2 hours
• Select dates: 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th and 29th Dec, 2023
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

This tour company recommends booking your tour ahead of time if you want to avoid missing out.

There are limited tours and spots, so don’t wait too long to purchase your tickets. 

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS BUS TOURS LONDON

There are a few different companies to consider, and they each give you the opportunity to see some of the most impressive lighting displays and decorations in the entire city.

If you’re interested in learning about the area as well, make sure to check out our post about London bus tours .

Tootbus Tour

This popular hop-on-hop-off bus tour company offers a special Christmas lights tour.

They used to go under the name The Original London Sightseeing Tour, but they are now known as Tootbus London.

Also, on Christmas Day, their hop-on-hop-off tour will be running. This is an activity worth considering since London will be very quiet on Christmas Day!

On both tours, you’ll see a variety of holiday lights on display at several notable locations such as Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Circus, Regent Street, and Trafalgar Square.

45-Minute Christmas Bus Tour

• Dates: 17th November 2023 - 30th December 2023
• Hours: Times vary by date, with the earliest tour at 16:00 and the latest at 19:30
• Tickets: Adults £29| Children £18

Big Bus Tours

In addition to their hop-on hop-off bus tours , this company also offers a special holiday tour which focuses on the areas of London which are lit up for Christmas.

While you're enjoying all the fabulous lighting displays on their open-top bus, you'll also have the opportunity to listen to festive holiday music.

Since this tour takes place after dark, it's a lot like their night bus tour, which means you won't be able to hop on and off whenever you wish. If you want that experience, consider a 24-hour ticket instead.

• Dates: Launches 1st December 2023
• Hours, durations and prices are yet to be announced.

Premium Tours

This company offers a somewhat unique Christmas lights bus tour in London. While other companies are using more modern buses, Premium Tours has vintage double-decker buses.

If you're feeling nostalgic for the types of buses they used to have in London, this is a great opportunity to relive past experiences while enjoying festive holiday displays throughout the city.

In addition to the trip down memory lane, this tour will also include live commentary from a tour guide providing information about the sights you'll see along the way.

• Dates: To Be Announced
• Hours: 4 pm and 7 pm
• Duration: 100 minutes
• Tickets: £39.00/Adults | £34.00/Children
• Free for children under 3

The London Bicycle Tour Company

At 3 hours in length, their Christmas lights tour is actually one of the longer holiday outings in the entire city.

During this trip, you will see notable landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. 

Christmas Lights Bike Tour

• Tickets: £34.95 Adults | £28.95 Children
• Dates: 24th November, 2023 - 2nd January, 2023 (except Dec. 25)
• Hours: 15:30 daily
• Duration: 3 hours

In addition to visiting several historic sites, this London bike tour will also roll by several holiday markets such as the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park and Southbank Christmas Market.

Since you will be riding a bike, you’ll have the opportunity to get pretty close to most of the lighting displays featured on this outing. 

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Christmas Lights Tour

To enjoy an incredible evening in london… use our booking system below to secure your tickets for your see london by night christmas tour. tours depart from our stop at green park, just next to the ritz hotel., remember you will be taking a live guided tour in a dedicated open-top bus through london, taking in the sites, the lights and the vibrancy of our amazing capital, come and see the magnificent christmas lighting around london that makes this wonderful city even more magical.…, you will see the lights on oxford street, regents street, piccadilly circus, trafalgar square and many others., before we get fully booked during this very special time of the year, select your date, choose your time, ticket type and make your reservation., the children will love this tour, the adults with love this tour and even the pets will love this tour., there are just 40 seats on the upper deck for each tour so book your seats and secure your seating on the upper deck. [email protected] or +44 (0)207 183 4744 ..

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• Contacts UK 020-7713-1311 US 1-800-815-4003

• In exceptional circumstances an alternative vehicle (a closed-top vintage bus or a coach) may be used.

TRIP ITINERARY

Enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights of London travelling on a restored 50-year-old Vintage bus! This festive tour features live commentary from a local tour guide as we travel through the West End to view the spectacular Christmas lights. The route includes Oxford Street, Regent Street and Knightsbridge, enjoying the magnificent colourful lights.

You will also pass The Houses of Parliament and the famous Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square.

Get in the Christmas spirit with this exclusive vintage bus tour!

Tour departs at 4pm and 7pm.

Please note:

• Please note that this is an  open top  bus tour - please be prepared for the possibility of rain.
• Please note that seating on the upper deck is not guaranteed.
• Route subject to change due to traffic conditions / road closures. Please note that on some occasions we will not be travelling on Regent Street due to traffic-free events.
• Tour duration subject to change due to traffic conditions (This will be anything between 1.5 - 2.5 hours)
• The tour departs at Victoria Coach Station, Gate (0), at 4pm and 7pm (Check-in 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time).
• The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree  is a tree gifted to the people of Britain by Norway each year since 1947. The tree is prominently displayed in Trafalgar Square from 7th December 2023.

[email protected]

Copyright © Premium Tours 2024

Let yourself be carried by the magic and romance of London at Christmas time. Sit back relax and enjoy the festive lights from the open top deck of the bus.

• Non-stop sightseeing bus tour
• Live guided in English
• London's most iconic lights
• Key facts about London through the audio guide

Every day from 17th Nov to 2nd Jan , except 24th, 25th and 31st Dec

Departing from  Coventry Street, London W1D 6BH

Various departures from 4:30pm to 8.30pm

Overview Christmas Lights Tour

The air is frosty, the streets and buildings are covered with twinkling lights and decorations, and a mix of joy and excitement has descended onto London… The happiest season of all is back! Time to put on your favourite Christmas jumper and capture the magic of the city at Christmas . Join us for some festive fun and see the famous lights that decorate the iconic streets of London on board Tootbus' double-decker buses. There is no shortage of light displays in central London, all more beautiful than the other. One of the best things to do at Christmas is simply to admire the stunning displays . At 4 meters high, this tour will take you closer to the lights than ever before. Watch the city sparkle as we take you past the capital's famous Christmas lights and decorations. There will be the spectacular angels of Regent Street , the iconic snow of stars of Oxford Street , the impressive Christmas Tree of Trafalgar Square and more. See all these whilst our live guide entertains you with stories of Christmas past and present. What else could you need to simply have a wonderful time? Whether you are a local or visiting for the festive season, this is a special moment to share with your loved ones. Our knowledgeable local experts are ready to tell you all the stories about London's most famous landmarks! Don’t forget to wrap up warm, London winter nights are not known for being warm. Get in the mood with the Christmas playlist we have compiled specially for you. After listening to this, all you’ll want is to hop on a Christmas Lights Tour! After your tour, why not visit a Christmas Market? Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden are all within a short distance from the tour departure and will be great places to continue your festive evening.

Know before you go Christmas Lights Tour

Routes & service, live guides, audio guide, flexible tickets, london christmas lights tour, select your tickets.

Please select your tickets

Free cancellation 24 hours prior to the date of the tour.

22 Best Christmas tours in London (2023)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: October 10, 2023

Visiting London during the festive season? Discover the best Christmas tours in London for 2023 including lights, markets, day trips, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & more.

From an open-top bus “Christmas lights in London” experience to a day trip to Europe, there are so many things to do when you’re based in London during the festive season!

If you want to find the best walking tours, enjoy a 3-course meal while sailing along the Thames or even attend a church service on Christmas Eve or morning, then read on.

We’ve rounded up 22 of the finest options, including London taxi tours for Christmas plus walking, cycling, bus and boat tours. 

Whether you prefer to shop til you drop at the finest festive markets in the UK or explore historic London, these are the best Christmas tours from London for 2023. 

Best Christmas tours in London – Quick picks

Open-top bus christmas lights by night tour, vintage open-top bus christmas lights tour, tootbus london christmas lights tour, christmas eve london illuminations bus tour, christmas lights and festive sights walking tour, christmas lights tour by black london cab, london christmas lights tour by taxi, private london christmas sites walking tour, charles dickens and a christmas carol walking tour, london christmas lights and markets tour.

• Personalised London walking tour with a local 

Christmas markets walking tour of London

• Christmas party Thames lunch cruise 

Christmas dinner party river cruise

3 hour tour of london by bike, bruges christmas markets in a day, kent countryside & church day trip from london, total london experience christmas eve tour, christmas eve tour with st paul’s and the london eye.

• Christmas Eve dinner in London with Midnight Mass 

Christmas Day sights and sounds of London

• London tour plus Christmas Day Sung Eucharist at St Paul's

Which Christmas tours in London will you take?

London travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks).

7 London Christmas lights tours by bus, taxi or on foot

• Duration: 1 hour 45 mins
• Destination: Central London
• Meeting time: Varies
• Meeting point: London Eye
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, audio guide
• What’s not included: Meals, drinks, hotel pick-up, tips

This Christmas lights bus tour of London whisks you past all the top sights in the capital – as illuminated for Christmas. Starting out from the London Eye, landmarks you’ll see en route include Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and Tower Bridge.

During the hour-and-three-quarter tour you’ll hear all about London culture and history, and see for yourself how one of the world’s most visited cities does Christmas. 

⭐️ Click for more information or to book this tour

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Meeting point: Grand Hotel, Northumberland Avenue
• What’s included: Vintage transport, tour guide

Hop aboard a Routemaster bus from the 1960s for an hour-and-a-quarter whistle-stop tour of London’s grandest streets. Places you’ll pass on this London lights tour include Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge and Oxford Street to the other side of Hyde Park.

This tour is designed to amuse as much as to educate, so hopefully your experienced guide will have you rolling in the aisles with laughter. As they’re fond of saying in London theatres.  

• Duration: 45 minutes
• Meeting point: Varies
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Santa hat, Christmas playlist

This Tootbus tour of London’s Christmas lights will keep you switched on, as there’s free WiFi on board plus complimentary access to the Tootbus app and Christmas playlist. Your guide will even give you a Santa hat to keep!

Central London’s most illuminated districts will all be seen on this fun London lights bus tour, including Regent Street, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. Kids under five can also travel for free if sitting on an adult’s lap.

• Duration: 105 minutes
• Meeting point: London Victoria bus stop 1
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Christmas gift

As it takes place on Christmas Eve, you can only experience this magical London Christmas lights 2023 tour only once per year. So it’s pretty special. To mark the occasion, you’ll even be given a Christmas gift. 

You’ll also see so many London landmarks lit up in their festive finery, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, the City, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Phew!

• Duration: 3 hours
• Meeting time: To be agreed
• Meeting point: To be agreed
• What’s included: Local tour guide, mulled wine or hot chocolate
• What’s not included: Meals, tickets, transport, tips

This Christmas lights tour of London for 2023 takes place on foot. As it’s private and personalised, the itinerary can be adjusted to suit you. If you’re not sure of where to go, don’t worry as your guide won’t be short of suggestions!

You can see some of London’s best Christmas lights during the three hour tour and discover hidden secrets about this charming city. From stunning Christmas shop windows to Christmas markets, this festive tour of London is about doing it your way. 

• Meeting point: Hotel pick-up
• What’s included: Local driver & tour guide, water & biscuits
• What’s not included: Meals & tips

There’s no one better to show you their city than a licensed London taxi driver. Who also happens to be a registered tourist guide! Two-and-a-half hours in a black cab gives you plenty of time to see all the sights you want to.

You can take photos and have refreshment stops along the way, and if you like can be dropped off at a Christmas market instead of your hotel. The itinerary is built around you for this London Christmas lights tour by taxi, and can take the children to see Santa or include a stop at Winter Wonderland. 

• What’s included: Local driver & tour guide, water & snacks

This London Christmas lights tour for 2023 by taxi is great for groups or families, as you can pay a good value rate per person to have the cab to yourselves. Your driver guide will pick you up before taking you on a three hour city tour. 

Your driver is not only that but also a registered tour guide. Under his or her guidance you can see all the sights you want to, including stops for photos. Complimentary mince pies, biscuits and water are supplied to keep your energy levels up!

5 Christmas walking tours of London

• What’s included: Local tour guide
• What’s not included: Meals, transport, entry fees & tips

If you prefer to see things more slowly and enjoy walking, then why not book a private walking tour with an experienced guide? It’s sure to make a most memorable addition to your London Christmas trip.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Then you can head off to see the Leicester Square Christmas Market, Covent Garden, Waterloo Bridge, Borough Market, Tower Bridge and finally Winter Wonderland.

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• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Destination: Old London

If it’s old or literary London you want to experience, then book this walking tour led by a history enthusiast. The tour takes you to various locations used by Charles Dickens as the setting for his Christmas Carol story. A literary and festive classic.

Though it’s not strictly a Christmas lights walking tour of London, you can’t avoid seeing the festive illuminations as you stroll around the city during December. En route you’ll also visit the Inns of Court, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, the Royal Exchange, the George and Vulture, Leadenhall Market and more. 

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Meeting point: Covent Garden Tube Station
• What’s included: Local tour guide, mulled wine or cider or soft drink
• What’s not included: Meals, extra drinks & purchases, tips

Also taken on foot, this walking tour offers another great alternative to the usual Christmas bus tour of London. You’ll really get up close to sights like the Christmas markets, a hidden square decorated with Victorian street lamps and Trafalgar Square.

You can also see the Christmas tree with 40,000 lights on it, and enjoy a glass of mulled cider or wine – or a soft drink if you prefer. 

Personalised London walking tour with a local  

• Destination: London 
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, transport, entry fees & tips

Book this tour and an expert local guide will be matched to your own interests. It’s impossible to give an itinerary, as the tour will be tailored to suit exactly what you want to see and where you want to go. 

If your hotel is within central London you can be collected there, before setting off on your festive London voyage of discovery. What will you explore during your fully personalised tour? 

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Destination: London Christmas markets
• Meeting point: London Bridge Station
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, transport, purchases & tips

This walking tour of London takes the guesswork out of getting to the city’s festive markets. Starting out at London Bridge, you’ll visit Christmas markets in Covent Garden, on the South Bank and in Greenwich. 

With four to five hours to spare, you may well have time to stock up on every present or decoration you need to buy! The wooden stalls and smell of mulling spices in the air also make this a magical experience. 

2 Christmas tours of London by boat

Christmas party thames lunch cruise  .

• Destination: River Thames
• Meeting point: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment
• What’s included: River cruise, 3 course meal, drinks, live music
• What’s not included: Extra drinks

You should be feeling thoroughly festive by the time you disembark from this boat cruise on the Thames. The fee includes a three course festive meal plus a glass of sparkling wine and tea or coffee. You’ll also enjoy live music as you sail past key London sights.

Setting off from Westminster, you’ll head to Canary Wharf, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye and The Shard. Do note there’s a smart casual dress code, and that you’ll be seated at a table for ten.  

• Duration: 4 hours
• What’s included: River cruise, 3 course meal, drinks, DJ & dancing

If you fancy partying by night or for even longer, book this four hour cruise along the Thames. It’s like a London Christmas lights tour by boat, with a four course meal, a glass of fizz and half a bottle of wine thrown in. Plus a DJ and dancing.

There’s a bar on board for buying extra drinks, and you can dance the night away after a dinner of turkey and all the trimmings, plus a salmon starter and a chocolate pud. Again you’ll pass key landmarks by the river, all lit up for Christmas. 

1 Christmas bike tour of London

• Meeting point: Kennington Road, London SE11
• What’s included: Tour guide, bike & helmet hire
• What’s not included: Food, drinks or other extras, tips

Take to two wheels to see London at Christmas from a different perspective. Being closer to ground level, you’ll see even more than you would via a typical Christmas lights London bus tour.

With three hours at your disposal, you can cycle past the South Bank Christmas Market, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Harrods and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. You can also see and snap the Christmas window displays at Sloane Square, Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square.

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2 best day trips from London at Christmas

• Duration: 17 hours
• Destination: Bruges, Belgium
• Meeting time: 06:00
• Meeting point: Earls Court underground station
• What’s included: Transport, channel crossing & tour guide

One of the joys of visiting London in winter is how easy it is to access other European destinations during your stay. This day trip will transport you to Bruges, via luxury coach and either ferry or the Eurotunnel.

You’ll have free time to spend in Bruges just as you wish, and can also get all your shopping sewn up at the Christmas market. Highlights to look out for in the city include canals, cobbled streets and mediaeval buildings. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Belgian chocolate too!

• Duration: 9 hours
• Destination: Canterbury & Kent
• Meeting time: 08:30
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, Christmas lunch, church service
• What’s not included: Other extras, entry fees & tips

Those interested in the true meaning of Christmas will appreciate the chance to attend a  ‘Sung Eucharist’ service on Christmas Day at the impressive Canterbury Cathedral in Kent. 

During the day you’ll also enjoy a delicious Christmas lunch, as well as seeing majestic Dover Castle and the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. A visit to Greenwich , home of the Old Royal Naval College, is also included on the way back to the city. 

3 Christmas Eve tours of London

• Duration: 10 hours
• Meeting time: 08:00
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, boat cruise, Eye & St Paul’s entry fees 
• What’s not included: Food, drinks, Tower of London entry fee & tips

Anyone will tell you not to venture into central London on Christmas Eve, when the streets are thronged with last minute shoppers. Avoid it all by booking this tour, which includes bus and boat transport. 

Entries to the London Eye and St Paul’s cathedral are also included. You’ll also take a cruise on the Thames and see the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. If you’re all prepared for Christmas, this is the perfect way to spend Christmas Eve in the British capital. 

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• What’s not included: Food, drinks, extras & tips

This tour is very similar to the one above, but is bookable via GetYourGuide rather than Viator. 

During the 10 hour tour you’ll take in Westminster, Buckingham Palace, the City of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye. A boat cruise on the River Thames is also included.

Christmas Eve dinner in London with Midnight Mass  

• Duration: 6.5 hours
• Destination: Central London & St Martin-in-the-Fields
• Meeting time: 18:30
• Meeting point: London Victoria bus stop 3
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide, 3 course dinner + fizz, church service 
• What’s not included: Extra drinks, other extras & tips

There’s no more Christmassy way to enjoy London on Christmas Eve than by joining Midnight Mass at St Martin-in-the-Fields church . You’ll start by taking a London bus Christmas lights tour before tucking into dinner at Brown’s.

Next up is the annual Midnight Mass service at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. What better way to celebrate the real meaning of the festive season?

2 Christmas Day London experiences

• Meeting time: 14:00
• What’s included: Transport & tour guide 

After spending Christmas morning at your leisure, why not embark on this afternoon city tour? You’ll see all the sights of central London – and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere or almost-empty streets.

This tour takes you past Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament,  Big Ben, Downing Street, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and Trafalgar Square. Enjoy capturing pictures without the crowds. This is ideal for those who don’t really celebrate Christmas – or want to do something different on that day.  

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London tour plus Christmas Day Sung Eucharist at St Paul’s

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• What’s included: Transport, tour guide & hotel pick-up

This is very similar to the above tour, but takes place during the morning instead of the afternoon. You can attend Sung Eucharist at the mighty St Paul’s cathedral with this one, as well as seeing the sights. 

For those who want to experience Christmas in London complete with the church service, this tour is unmissable. 

Whether you fancy escaping the city for the day or want to experience the most peaceful London possible on Christmas Day, there are plenty of ways of tours to take in or from the UK capital during December. 

What will it be? Exploring at your own pace with a local expert, riding around on a bike or open-top bus, or partying on the Thames? Whichever you pick from these Christmas tours in London, have a very merry Christmas in one of the world’s greatest cities!

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
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• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with a guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the most popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read our budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
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• Evenings? Things to do at night in London
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