christmas lights tours london

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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.

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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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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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Have a query? send us an email and we'll get back to you, asap.

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.

Christmas Lights Tour of London

• Evening tour on a restored 50 year old vintage bus
• See the festive Christmas lights in Oxford Street and Regent Street
• Panoramic views of The Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Harrods and more
• Informative and entertaining live commentary
• Hotel drop-off
• Hotel pickup
• Victoria Coach, London SW1W 9RH, UK Located on 164 Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria, London, SW1W 9TP, approximately 7 minutes walk from Victoria Underground and Railway station. Tour departs at Gate 0 inside the Coach Station. (Check-in starts 15 minutes before the departure time selected)
• Victoria St, London SW1E 5ND, UK
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• 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)
• In exceptional circumstances an alternative vehicle (a closed-top vintage bus or a coach) may be used
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 38 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

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• You'll start at Victoria Coach London SW1W 9RH, UK Located on 164 Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria, London, SW1W 9TP, approximately 7 minutes walk from Victoria Underground and Railway station. Tour departs at Gate 0 inside the Coach Station. (Check-in starts 15 minutes before the departure time selected) See address & details
• Pass by Trafalgar Square Harrods Piccadilly Circus Houses of Parliament Regent Street Oxford Street Apsley House Westminster Abbey Whitehall
• You'll end at Victoria Victoria St, London SW1E 5ND, UK See address & details

• I8541KHbethf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 1 day in Paris! Anna was our guide-Phenominal ! Our train was late leaving London and therefore thru the rest of the schedule off. Traffic in Paris was bad- both of these issues were beyond Premiun Tours or Anna's control. Anna worked diligently to have the cruise rescheduled so we did not miss. Lunch (and view )on the Tower was great! after the cruise then back to the train station for our return trip. Train was late leaving again. Anna went above and beyond , even after the tour, to help us.-Have realistic expectations for what you expect in a ONE day tour of Paris.!( traffic and train time). My daughter and I had a wonderful day! Read more Written 17 May 2024
• josiahk328 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Introductory London Experience Our tour with Steve was excellent on our first full day in London. We got an excellent morning tour of the city, and Steve was sure to answer any and all questions we had along the way. The top deck was an excellent place for seeing all the sights and for snapping photos. Steve guided us through the history of street names, London traditions, fun factoids, and pointed out all of the landmarks along the way, with wit to boot! After the first leg of the bus tour, we joined a public river cruise up the Thames from London back to Westminster, where we rejoined our bus for a quick ride/walk to the palace. Keep in mind this isn't a hop on/off experience, but rather a cohesive guided tour. The highlight for my group and myself was the fact that we had a real tour guide to answer questions and be our guide, rather than an audio recording with a map. The tour started in Victoria Coach Station (be sure to go inside for the stop) and ended at Buckingham Palace to catch the end of the changing of the guard. I would indubitably go again, especially on my first day in the city to get a lay of the land along with some fun trivia too. Read more Written 17 May 2024
• seka357 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stefan and Ciaran are Highly Professional Guides who Exceeded Expectations! I would like to credit both Stefan our guide, and Ciaran who drove the coach for making our trip to Bath and Stonehenge most enjoyable. Stefan provided most of the commentary. He was funny and charming. His directions and advice made a big difference in our enjoyment of the trip. I had been on this trip years before but I learned more and saw more of Bath than I did previously. Our driver, Ciaran, was highly professional, inspired confidence and added some humorous comments here and there to keep things light. After the tour, we were looking to have dinner. Ciaran gave us some extra time (after a long day behind the steering wheel). He gave us a recommendation and directions to an Indian restaurant nearby. They were a great team. Thanks, gentlemen! Highly recommend this duo! John and Mila V Read more Written 17 May 2024
• miriams644 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful tour ! Clive was truly wonderful. His breath of knowledge was impressive He made sure everyone would have the best experience possible. This particular trio of experiences was the perfect combination I highly recommend this tour. Thank you again , Clive ! Read more Written 17 May 2024
• 159ashav 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Good tour Good tour that gives an overview of tourist spots in London. It is not a detailed tour of anyone spot but good if you are a first timer in London Read more Written 16 May 2024
• JohnB0531 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Rock n Roll Tour didn't miss a beat. We booked the London Rock n Roll and Beatles Tour and Lucky was our guide. Shortly after the bus departed to begin the tour, we heard a loud pop and the bus got a flat tire. Our guide Lucky handled the situation with the utmost professionalism and pivoted without hesitation, modifying the tour to a walking tour/pub crawl until a new bus arrived. We were still able to see many of the tour highlights, and experienced new things we may not have on the original tour. He managed to create an ad hoc tour that didn't miss a beat and we thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon. Great job Lucky! Read more Written 16 May 2024
• L4375LAep 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles An enjoyable day. More accessibility Our tour guide Steve and driver Carlos were very professional. Steve’s jokes and puns were clever and kept things lively. He was very knowledgeable about the tour highlights as well as the historical perspectives. Visiting Stonehenge was a special experiences for us. We enjoyed riding through the English countryside and seeing the farm land and pigs, sheep, cattle and horses. Walking through Bath felt like revisiting a Jane Austin novel. It is a short time at each stop, but a good way to experience the areas outside London in one day. There was more walking than anticipated, especially to get inside Windsor Castle. FYI - getting into the castle involved much more walking than visiting Stonehenge. The guide walked a little fast for some people. The guides should be given a cell phone number to share in case someone gets lost. The coach was new and very comfortable. On the whole, a good experience. Perhaps it can be more accessible to those with limited mobility. A shuttle up to the castle and from coach to pub would be helpful. Read more Written 16 May 2024
• susanrZ6962TY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A lot packed into one day!! Well organized and lots of great information. Anna was funny and knowledgeable. The food was fabulous at the Eiffel Tower! The river cruise was serene! Specioul shout out to our driver…he was amazing. He got us to all the sutesamd back to the train station amidst the CRAZY Paris traffic. Read more Written 15 May 2024
• K B 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Tour Terrific, Traffic Terrible Anna was great and very personable. She made sure we got to see what we wanted. Paris traffic was horrible and the trains were delayed both ways. We had to rearrange our tour. No one’s fault but be aware because it could shorten your free time. Read more Written 15 May 2024
• Banjer7 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Day Trippers We enjoyed our tour into the idyllic English countryside. Our guide Alan was funny and informative. The lunch at a local restaurant was tasty as well. Lots of shopping opportunities in the 3 villages we visited. Read more Written 15 May 2024
• kennethhH7239GS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful experience Great tour. Having a live guide makes all the difference. Lots of interesting information, history and humor along the way. Wonderful experience! Read more Written 15 May 2024
• vispib2018 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must visit Highly Recommend: This charming outing is a must for anyone seeking a memorable and enchanting experience. Delightful Afternoon Tea: Our experience was absolutely delightful—a must-book occasion! Exceptional Team: Lyn, Lisa, Kim, and Michele went above and beyond to make us feel incredibly comfortable and welcomed. Irresistible Treats: Indulge in the heavenly flavors of Butter Bear and Butter Bear Ice Cream—unforgettable treats not to be missed. Read more Written 14 May 2024
• OurFamilyTravelsBy3 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent one-day experience of Paris! Our family of three, including our 13-year-old son, took this guided tour with Anna right after Easter. The tour was well organized and efficient, and Anna was an incredibly friendly and knowledgeable guide. We chose the option which included lunch at the Eiffel Tower and truly enjoyed the food and the experience. We thought the lunch option was well worth it since we made it to the viewing platform and had incredible views of the city. We booked tickets to the Louvre on our own (Tip: we booked a 4:30 entrance time, which was just right with catching an Uber from lunch), and Anna was very accommodating in having us meet up with the group by the inverted pyramid inside the Louvre once we were finished touring since that’s where the bus picks you up to head back to the train station. Others chose to explore Paris on their own but having been there before and knowing how sprawling the city is, we didn’t feel like we would have enough time to do much and thought we would rather show our son the Mona Lisa since it was his first trip to Paris. Overall, I would highly recommend this trip if you are wanting a quick overview of Paris to get a feel for the city and see highlights like the Eiffel Tower and the beautiful scenery along the Seine. Read more Written 14 May 2024
• L5452OXashleyb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Anna is the BEST Anna definitely deserves a bonus, pay raise, and a week of paid time off, if not more. She was nothing short of amazing & made this trip absolutely worthwhile. I travel often, and over the years she is the best tour guide I've ever had. Literally, the best! There were time constraints out of our control, but the trip was amazing! Anna went above & beyond, and showed dedication and appreciation. Anna is rare. Read more Written 14 May 2024
• niccY7220BH 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exquisite Paris Tour with Anna Paris was absolutely breathtaking, all the architecture as well as the culture was exquisite. Our tour guide Anna truly made the experience, she was so kind hearted and accommodating. She took time to go into detail about each and every site we saw. Our experience in Paris was amazing all due to her. I would have loved if she directed our tours in London, and around England as well. Read more Written 14 May 2024

More to explore in London

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Christmas Lights Tour of London provided by Premium Tours - London Tours

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.

2023: The Best London Christmas Lights tours for your budget

By Discover More UK

Published: 22 September 2022

Last updated: 3 october 2023.

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There’s no denying that Christmas in London is magical, the lights, the shows, the ice skating, the Christmas shopping an the chill in the air!

But London is huge and if you’re not familiar with it then seeing the best of London Christmas lights can be a challenge, which is why London Christmas lights tours are the best way to see London Christmas lights.

If you’re planning the best things to do in London at Christmas , make sure a London lights tour is on your list, whether that’s a more affordable Christmas lights London bus tour or a private London black cab Christmas lights tour, this London Christmas lights tour overview and review can help you decide the best way to see this iconic capital city.

Looking for more London ideas? Check out these unique and quirky London experiences .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

Top London Christmas Lights 2023 tour options

Best london christmas lights bus tour.

If you’re looking for a budget friendly London Christmas lights tour, London has plenty to offer and this Christmas lights by night tour is a great option for large groups, families with young children or if it’s raining/snowing as it’s only 90 minutes and has inside seating.

Check out this Christmas lights London by night tour to not only see famous sights like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square, but also popular Christmas spots like Piccadilly Circus and Harrods.

Book your Christmas London Bus tour here.

Open top bus Christmas lights London tour

A great way to see the London Christmas lights tour route is on an open top bus and this London lights bus tour on a vintage bus is a super fun and unique way to see the city while also being budget friendly.

The vintage Routemaster bus harks back to London of old and the bus is decked out in festive decorations to add to the Christmas atmosphere.

Make sure you wrap up warm for this tour so you can take full advantage of the spectacular views from the open top deck.

Book your vintage bus Christmas lights tour here.

Christmas Markets and Christmas lights walking tour London

This London Christmas lights walking tour is a great option for combining a London Christmas walking tour with learning about the city’s history, sightseeing and enjoying the London Christmas markets.

This is also a fantastic budget friendly option as long as you don’t mind walking and make sure you wrap up warm!

Start the walking tour in the iconic Covent Garden and end the tour with a traditional mulled wine at the Christmas markets.

London Christmas markets are some of the best Christmas Markets in the UK , so this is a great chance to see the city in all its festive glory and learn about city’s history, festive traditions and role in some of the greatest festive tales we know today.

Book your London Christmas walking tour here.

Black cab London lights tour

If you’re ready to splash the cash a bit more, then this London Christmas lights taxi tour in an iconic Black London cab is a great option.

This is a private tour for you and your travel partner or group (as long as you can all fit in the cab) and it’s a great option for London Christmas lights sightseeing, whatever the weather throws at you!

The private tour aspect means it can be curated for you by picking you up from your hotel and the best part is that the tour ends at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, giving you the option to wander the Winter Markets there and end the evening with a warming tipple or two.

Book your black cab Christmas lights tour London here.

Christmas Eve London illuminations tour

If you’re looking for special things to do in London on Christmas Eve, then this is the perfect Christmas bus tour of London to make the night before Christmas memorable.

This is a luxury bus tour with a tour guide commentary as you view London from your bus seat, seeing the iconic sights as well as the festive illuminations.

This is a great budget friendly option for families and young children as the tour duration is only 1 hour 45 minutes.

Book your Christmas Eve London tour here.

River Thames Christmas dinner experience

If you’re ready to spent a bit of cash on a memorable Christmas experience in London, then what could be better than a Christmas Dinner Party Cruise ?

This 4-hour cruise includes a welcome drink, half a bottle of wine per person and a 3-course meal with a DJ playing, all for a very reasonable price as you cruise past the famous sights of London lit up for Christmas

The food is a traditional Christmas dinner style and there’s also a dance floor if the feeling takes you that way after your meal!

Book your Christmas Thames cruise here.

Bespoke Christmas Lights tour London

If you’re prefer to plan a private, bespoke experience for you and your party, this bespoke tour of London Christmas lights allows you to do exactly that by customising the tour and experience based on your interests, abilities and preferences.

This is a 3 hour tour with the opportunity to discover Christmas markets, see Christmas lights, see the famous Christmas window displays, eat and drink the festive way and explore the famous sights and areas of the city with your own local tour guide.

Your tour guide will be in touch to organise the custom parts of your tour in advance, to make sure you see everything you want to see on the evening of your tour.

Book your bespoke London tour here.

Summary: the best London Christmas lights tours 2023

There truly is few places as magical as London at Christmas and hopefully these London Christmas light tour options will give you some great ideas and help you make a decision about how to spend your festive trip to London.

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• 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.

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London Christmas Lights Tour

Tour Information

London christmas lights tour highlights.

• Oxford Street
• New Bond Street
• Regent’s Street
• Carnaby Street
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• Covent Garden
• And a few other surprises along the way.

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If you're feeling festive, then these tours are the ones for you! Take in all of London's Christmas spirit with 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 on Oxford Street, your guide will lead you underneath sparkling lights, hanging wreaths, past stunning Christmas trees and romantic mistletoe.

You’ll learn some of Britain’s holiday traditions, as well as how and why they became so popular.

Find out what a Pantomime is, why the Puritans 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, traverse the cobbled streets of the beautifully decorated Covent Garden, and stop for a mulled wine (at your own expense!).

Then a trip to Carnaby Street, which never fails to stun with its imaginative take on illuminations followed by a journey across the dazzling Regent Street and onto a little secret corner of fabulous.

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

Locations visited…

• Covent Garden And a few other surprises on the way.

Tour information

Reservations: REQUIRED.  Click here to reserve .

Where: The tour departs outside the entrance of Bond Street Tube beside the Disney Store on Oxford Street. Meet your guide at the junction of Oxford Street and Marylebone Lane.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

When: Every day but Tuesdays from 23rd Nov - 24th Dec. View our full Calendar

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

And much, much more

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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

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• 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.

🎄 Click for more information or to book this tour

• 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.

🎁 Click for more information or to book this tour

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. 

🎁 Click for more information or to book this tour  

• 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.  

🎉 Click for more information or to book this tour

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!

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London Christmas Lights Tours - London Forum

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Hi all, is it worth paying the ticket price for an official lights tour or can we see the same things riding in a ‘regular’ bus? Thank you.

12 replies to this topic

Definitely not. Just get a normal bus or walk around. The main areas for lights are all quite close together

Thank you, much appreciated.

Tours travel on the same roads so what you'll see will be the same. However some of the Christmas lights are in pedestrianised areas like Cobent Garden and Carnaby St

This is my post from last Christmas,

Much of this route is along the 139 bus route so you could join anywhere along the route and go in either direction.

https://tfl.gov.uk/bus/route/139

If you do the journey in reverse the bus stop letters will be different.

Almost opposite the station is St Christopher’s Place , look out for the narrow alleyway. https://www.stchristophersplace.com/ an interesting area with small shops and restaurants.

Back on Oxford street walk to Oxford Circus and down Regents Street or right to find a 139 bus from stop BC at Selfridges . To stop RG. From Oxford Circus walk down Regents Street until Great Marlborough Street on the left.

Walk along to Carnaby Street on the right, continue down Carnaby Street to the end.

Turn right onto Beak Street back to Regent street.

At Regents Street turn right for Hamleys toy shop display.

Find stop V for the 139 bus route near Hamleys https://tfl.gov.uk/bus/route/139

Sit upstairs if you can, the bus will take you along Regents Street, past Piccadilly Circus , Haymarket and Trafalgar square .

Stop A is the one for Covent Garden but if you stay on the bus until stop N which is on the southern end of Waterloo Bridge the view is magnificent on both sides after dark.

If you choose the stop N option Southbank Christmas market is nearby, there are steps down to the river near to stop.

From Waterloo Bridge you can walk back over the bridge or take the 139 bus back to stop U for Covent Garden.

At the northern end of the bridge one the right on the way back is Somerset House where ice skating takes place.

https://secretldn.com/somerset-house-ice-rink

Cross the Strand , walk to the left until Southampton Street on the right which will take you to the Covent Garden Piazza .

For Seven Dials, continue past the Piazza, go up James Street to the end and continue in the same direction along Neil Street until Earlham Street on the left.

After Seven Dials there is the choice of walking through Soho or to Tottenham Court Road Station which is at the Eastern end of Oxford Street.

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Check the spider maps for the buses in the Westminster Council area for some of the routes mentioned in the bus maps section on the TfL website at https://tfl.gov.uk/maps_/bus-spider-maps?Borough=Westminster

There's also a key bus routes map available to download.

You can pay the £1.75 fare on the bus as you board using a contactless (paywave) payment method, it can also be used on the other transport in London , for details see the post at the top of page 1 on the forum.

I can't vouch for the Christmas lights tours but I've been on a couple of her other walking tours and they're really good.

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