Top Christmas Light Trails in London & Beyond for 2025
- Tracy Tristram
- Nov 26
- 4 min read
The holiday season is almost upon us, and London will be lighting up with magical Christmas light trails that are perfect for families, little ones, and anyone who loves a bit of sparkle. From twinkling tunnels to enchanted forests, here's your ultimate guide to the most magical Christmas light trails in London and beyond for 2025.
Enlightened at Hylands Estate – Chelmsford, Essex
Step into a world of enchantment at Hylands Estate, where the award-winning Enlightened light trail returns with a bigger, brighter, and more magical experience. Wander through shimmering arches of light, dazzling laser projections, and brand-new interactive installations that captivate visitors of all ages. Dogs are welcome on a lead, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Christmas at Kew Gardens – Richmond
Experience the magic of Kew Gardens' Christmas light trail, featuring sparkling tunnels, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colours. New for 2025, the iconic Great Pagoda will be adorned with festive lights for the first time. Don't forget to say hello to Father Christmas along the way!
Neverland at Kenwood House – Hampstead Heath
Embark on a magical journey through Kenwood House, following Tinkerbell's fairy dust path and exploring the glowing rooftops of London. This new light trail promises a whimsical adventure for all ages with part of the ticket proceeds going to Great Ormond Street.
Headstone Manor Museum Light Trail – Harrow
Located in North London, this family-friendly light trail offers a festive experience with illuminated displays and a chance to meet Santa in a cosy winter wonderland scene.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS BUS TOURS
Christmas Lights Tour - Tootbus
Hop aboard Tootbus’s open-top double-decker buses for a 60–90 minute tour through London’s festive glow. See Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, and Trafalgar Square illuminated for Christmas, while a live guide shares fun facts and stories about London’s holiday traditions. We're trying this one out soon so we'll let you know what it's like!
Christmas Lights Bus Tour - Christmas Bus Tour
Experience London's Christmas lights aboard a vintage 1960s Routemaster bus. This 75-minute tour takes you through iconic locations like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Trafalgar Square. The bus is decorated with festive touches, and a live guide shares stories and facts about London's Christmas traditions.
Christmas Lights London by Night Tour - Golden Tours
Embark on a 90-minute guided tour of London's Christmas lights. Highlights include Oxford Street's 5,000 dangling stars, Regent Street's holly-adorned shops, and the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. The tour departs from Belvedere Road near the London Eye.
Christmas Lights Tour – City Sightseeing
Join a 90-minute open-top bus tour to see London's festive lights. The route includes Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden. Live commentary provides insights into London's Christmas traditions.
London Christmas Lights Tour – Viator
This 60-90 minute tour offers a live guide and takes you past London's most famous Christmas displays. See the lights of Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Trafalgar Square, and enjoy the city's festive atmosphere.
RACE TRACK CHRISTMAS LIGHT TRAILS
Silverstone: Lap of Lights
Drive-in festive fun at the home of British motorsport — this Christmas, Silverstone is transformed into a winter wonderland with its annual light trail. The 2-mile “Lap of Lights” lets families drive around the iconic Grand Prix circuit as it’s bathed in dazzling light displays, lasers and immersive sound. New for 2025 is a visit to “Santa’s Garage” in partnership with LEGO®, plus the chance to go ice-skating in the pit-lane garages once used by F1 teams. With glowing installations, festive treats, and a unique pit-lane ice-rink, it’s a magical way to experience Christmas — and a memorable treat for kids and grown-ups alike. We're racing over to check this one out soon, so keep an eye on our socials for all the fun.
Brands Hatch: Winter Lights Spectacular
Brand new for 2025, the “Winter Lights Spectacular” at Brands Hatch offers a charming festive light-trail through woodland and around the historic racing circuit — this time on foot. Wander through glowing installations (some with a motorsport twist), enjoy cosy festive food stalls and hot drinks, toast marshmallows, hop on funfair rides and soak up the seasonal atmosphere under glittering lights.
Bonus: Best Christmas Lights Walking Route in London
If you prefer to explore the city's festive lights on foot, here's a delightful walking route that showcases London's best Christmas displays:
Start at Harrods – Marvel at the luxurious decorations.
Mayfair – Enjoy the elegant lights and boutique charm.
Bond Street – Admire the sparkling crowns and festive displays.
Oxford Street – Experience the classic Christmas lights.
Carnaby Street – Be amazed by the artistic and unique light installations.
Regent Street – Finish with the grand and iconic displays.
This 3.7-mile route offers a magical journey through London's festive heart.
Happy exploring, and may your days be merry and bright!
Need some more very merry guides to the festive season? Look no further: