The Most Instagrammable Places in London at Christmas

From shop window displays to lush green spaces, London isn’t short of Instagrammable spots. This is even more true at Christmas time, when the city is transformed with glitzy trees, twinkling lights and fun, festive decorations.  

Read on for all the inspiration you need to snap those perfect photos at top London Christmas spots this year.  

Winter Wonderland  

Set in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest festive market. Whether you’re exploring London solo or with a loved one, this is the place for Instagram-worthy photos. Enjoy ice skating, delicious food and drink and thrilling fairground rides, and pick up some lovely homemade gifts at the stalls.   

The best time to visit Winter Wonderland is after the sun sets, when the park features an array of Christmassy lights.  

Covent Garden  

Covent Garden is one of the most Instagrammable places in London all year round – but especially at Christmas. Aside from its Infinity Chamber and iconic swing seat, this shopping hub has brilliant seasonal highlights, such as daily snow showers and glittery lights.  

Pose for a photo in front of Covent Garden’s huge tree, adorned with impressive decorations. Or head to the Winter Warmer Festival and enjoy a range of mulled wines. Check out the festive market carts scattered around, too – an excellent place for a group snapshot.  

Carnaby Street  

Carnaby Street is home to some of the best Christmas lights across the capital, with a new theme each year. Well-known for unique installations, head here to capture beautiful photos that deserve a spot on the Instagram grid. Last year, the theme centred around ‘Carnaby Kaleidoscope’, when the street was transformed with sparkling neon butterflies, symbolising change and hope. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s to come this year.  

 
Harrods  

As Europe’s largest department store, Harrods is a must-visit spot during a trip to London. Many people flock here throughout the festive period just to take photos, and for good reason. The shop’s exterior is decorated with glittery lights, and its windows feature eye-catching displays.  

When you step inside, there’s lots to explore, such as the Christmas departments full of everything you need for the big day. In recent years, there’s also been a Santa’s Grotto and exciting events throughout December.  

Leadenhall Market  

Used as one of the filming locations in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, it’s no wonder that so many people visit Leadenhall Market to take photos. Dating back to 1321, this Victorian market is just as striking on the outside as it is on the inside.   

If you visit at Christmastime, there are all sorts of photogenic features to discover. From a giant Yuletide tree in the centre to charming window displays, it’s simply magical. Last year, Leadenhall Market hosted a series of events, including wreath-making and whisky-tasting, so make sure to check out what’s happening this year. Don’t forget to bring your camera along – you’ll definitely need it.  

 
Coppa Club  

Book a table at?Coppa Club?Tower Bridge this Christmas to indulge in delicious food and witness incredible views. Cosy up in one of the restaurant’s igloo pods, complete with snug blankets and warm lighting, and admire views of Tower Bridge lit up at night. This is one of the most Instagrammable spots in London to enjoy dinner and drinks with friends.  

The Ivy Chelsea Garden  

Situated along the King’s Road, The Ivy Chelsea Garden is the place to get fantastic photos. This trendy restaurant always features lovely decorations at Christmastime, and they seem to get bigger and better each year. Be prepared for large crowds of people trying to capture that perfect shot. 

Previous displays have included a gingerbread house and a Santa’s mailroom, complete with multi-coloured decorations and a sleigh. 2021’s theme was Miracle on Mount Crumpit, inspired by the much-loved film, How the Grinch Stole Christmas.  

Book a table and enjoy tasty food from the festive menu, such as roast butternut squash with cranberries, or goose and turkey shepherd’s pie. Or simply pop by for a festive cocktail – there are plenty to choose from.  

Fortnum & Mason  

If you’re a fan of gorgeous window displays, you need to visit Fortnum & Mason this December. The department store’s exterior is always dressed up come Christmas, with festive wreaths and baubles.  

Head inside and shop the gorgeous range of decorations, or enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea. Fortnum and Mason’s afternoon tea is one of the best across the capital, boasting freshly made cakes, flavourful sandwiches and a range of teas.  

Instagrammable hotels: NYX Hotel London Holborn  

Searching for luxury hotels across the capital? Look no further than NYX Hotel London Holborn. Located in the heart of Holborn, our hotel is only a short walk from areas like Soho, Covent Garden, and Oxford Street, great for shopping and dining.  

You’ll find plenty of photo-worthy details here, from the plush, modern interiors to the colourful artwork. Grab a signature cocktail at the rooftop bar and look out over the city below. And at the end of a busy day, you can unwind in one of the 213 stylish guestrooms, complete with a comfortable bespoke DREAM bed.