When do the Christmas lights switch on in London in 2026?

Most London Christmas lights switch on in early to mid November. Carnaby and Regent Street were lit on 4 and 5 November 2026, Oxford Street follows on 9 November, and Covent Garden and Bond Street on 12 November. The ticketed trails at Kew and Windsor Great Park open on 13 November.

When are the Oxford Street lights turned on in 2026?

The Oxford Street switch-on is on Monday 9 November 2026, with a Harry Potter theme alongside the classic star lights. Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street has also been traffic-free since 26 October 2026, so it's much easier to walk.

Are the London Christmas lights free to see?

Yes, the street displays on Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby, Covent Garden, Bond Street and elsewhere are free. Light trails such as Christmas at Kew, Chelsea Winter Illuminations and Windsor Great Park Illuminated need a paid ticket, booked in advance.

What is the best Christmas light trail in London for families?

Christmas at Kew is the biggest and best-known, with a 3km trail, a fairground and Father Christmas, but it's also one of the priciest. Chelsea Winter Illuminations is more central and cheaper for children. For younger children, the Epping Ongar Lights Party Express train ride avoids a long walk altogether.

Are there any Christmas lights in London after Christmas?

Most street displays stay up until early January, and Leicester Square's lights are due to stay on until 6 January. Kew and Windsor run until 3 January 2027. Canary Wharf's free Winter Lights festival then follows from 19 to 30 January 2027.