SIX Christmas light displays in London worth seeing this winter: A South African’s guide [Pictures]
London’s festive light displays offer something we never had back home. Here’s where to find the most spectacular Christmas lights this winter, whether you’re an expat or have family visiting from SA.
After 20 years in London, I still make the effort to see the Christmas lights each December.
For us South Africans, it’s one of those experiences that simply doesn’t exist back home on this scale.
Sure, I grew up visiting the Adderley Street Christmas lights in Cape Town (now called the festive holiday light display for politically sensitive reasons), but they’re not quite on par with what London offers.
Christmas lights are one of those things the British just do exceptionally well. Back home, festive season means braais in 30-degree heat, not wrapping up to wander freezing streets.
If you’ve got family visiting from SA this winter, or you’re an expat who’s been meaning to do the full lights tour, here are six displays worth seeing.
1. Oxford Street
Oxford Street kicks things off with 5 000 stars made from 300 000 LED bulbs stretching overhead. The display partners with Great Ormond Street Hospital, which adds a bit more meaning to the sparkle.
2. Bond Street
Just a short walk away, Bond Street’s crown jewel-inspired display features 93 000 LEDs. The two streets are close enough that you can easily tick off both in one evening.
3. Regent Street and Piccadilly
Regent Street and Piccadilly showcase 30 illuminated angels lighting up the streets. At St James’s Market, there’s a Wishing Tree raising funds for The Felix Project.
4. Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street’s ‘All is Bright’ display captures Soho’s creative spirit with vibrant installations. Personal favourite for its playful, colourful take on Christmas lights.
5. Covent Garden
Covent Garden goes all out with 300 000 lights across the Piazza, Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard. Giant bells, ornaments and disco balls throughout. Good for combining with dinner and drinks.
6. Chelsea Winter Village
For something different, Chelsea Winter Village runs from 26 November with a 1.5km festive trail at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Light sculptures, markets, street food and bars. Good for warming up with mulled wine between displays.
Worth the effort
Growing up in Cape Town, Christmas meant scorching beaches and outdoor festivities.
Here, the cold actually makes it better, the lights somehow feeling warmer against the crisp air.
If you’ve got family visiting from SA this winter, this is one of those London experiences worth making the time for.