London at Christmas is honestly magical: the streets sparkle, the markets light up, and the whole city feels like a festive playground once December rolls in.

One of the best parts? All the amazing Christmas trees that pop up around London’s most famous spots. Each one has its own vibe: some classy, some fun, all super festive and totally worth seeing!

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON brings you the ultimate guide to the best Christmas trees in London!

🎄1. Covent Garden Christmas tree 

Seeing the Covent Garden Christmas tree in person is truly something special.

Standing right in the middle of the bustling piazza, it immediately catches your eye with its towering height and sparkling decorations. 

Around the tree, the piazza buzzes with twinkling lights, market stalls (don’t miss the Apple Market!), pop-ups, and street performers. Walking through it all, you really feel the magic of Christmas in the air!

A little extra magic? Every day in December, at 12 pm and 9 pm, gentle “snow” drifts over the cobbles, turning the piazza into a winter wonderland.

It’s a lively spot to soak up the festive atmosphere, and you can easily combine it with a lunch or dinner nearby.

🎄 2. Neal’s Yard (Covent Garden / Seven Dials)

Wandering into Neal’s Yard feels like discovering a colourful hidden corner of London, and at Christmas time the tree there somehow seems to suit the vibe perfectly. Surrounded by bright shopfronts, charming little cafés and narrow cobbled alleys, the tree stands out, modest but full of character. 

A little extra magic? There’s something cosy and cheerful about seeing it tucked away in that little courtyard, with lanterns or lights around and a chill, friendly vibe that’s a contrast to the big, showy displays elsewhere.

🎄 3. Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree

Every December, a majestic spruce from Oslo takes centre stage in Trafalgar Square. It’s a gift from the people of Norway, a tradition dating back to 1947 as a thank-you after World War II. 

The simple lights highlight its natural beauty, though the tree’s minimalist decorations are often joked about on social media. It’s definitely a “love it or hate it” kind of festive icon, but walking by, you can’t miss the history and Christmas spirit it brings.

A little extra magic? Catch the nearby carol singers, wander the festive market stalls, or join the crowd on lighting night, it’s a perfect spot to soak up Christmas vibes!

🎄4. St James’s Christmas tree (Westminster)

Timeless and elegant, the St James’s Christmas tree feels classic London, and it’s one of my favourites in the city. 

Surrounded by elegant Georgian buildings, luxury hotels like the Sofitel St James’s, and nearby historic landmarks, the Christmas tree feels like a little festive jewel in the heart of London. 

A little extra magic? St James’s sits amid iconic London landmarks, from the Royal Academy to historic squares, making it easy to pair a visit with nearby Christmas markets at Leicester Square or Trafalgar Square. Wander the streets, enjoy the city lights, and take in a classic, regal festive London stroll.

🎄5. The Royal Exchange Christmas Tree (The City)

Walking up to the Royal Exchange at Christmas always feels quietly grand. The twinkling lights soften its neoclassical architecture, and the Christmas tree, styled by Fortnum & Mason this year, adds a classic festive glow.

I love how it feels like a calm, beautiful festive spot in the middle of the City’s bustle.

A little extra magic? Step through the doors and you’ll find the neoclassical interior beautifully lit for the holidays. The Christmas tree sits amid elegant arches, marble floors, and chic decorations, giving the whole space a warm, refined, and quietly festive vibe.

🎄6. Leadenhall Market Christmas Tree (The City)

Tucked under the gorgeous Victorian arches, the Leadenhall Market Christmas tree feels instantly magical! Right in the heart of the City, it’s such a lovely contrast to the modern office buildings around it. 

I always love coming here at Christmas, there’s something so unique and festive about wandering through this hidden gem.

A little extra magic? At Leadenhall Market, you’ll get a festive snowfall under the grand Victorian roof, every day at 12 pm and 6 pm, making the golden arches, cobbles and lights feel even more magical!

🎄 7. Pan Pacific London (The City)

If you head to the City, the Christmas tree outside Pan Pacific London really makes you stop and look. It’s huge (the tallest in London this season!) lighting up the skyline with its sparkling lights and bold decorations.

A little extra magic? The way its lights reflect on the glass façade and surrounding windows is just beautiful. Walking by, the modern architecture and twinkling reflections make it feel like a cool, festive moment in the heart of the city!

🎄8. Winter by the river Christmas Tree (Bankside)

The Bankside Christmas tree gives off a more understated, modern vibe beside the river. With Tower Bridge (and the shimmering water beneath) as its backdrop, the setting feels uniquely London: a mix of calm riverside charm and city grandeur. 

Walking along the Thames there at night, the tree’s lights reflecting on the water and the famous bridge looming nearby create a festive scene that’s peaceful and slightly magical.

A little extra magic? The Christmas market that wraps around the tree adds a festive buzz. You’ll find stalls with seasonal treats, gifts, and twinkling lights make it a fun spot to wander and soak up the holiday atmosphere.

🎄 9. Hay’s Galleria Christmas Tree (Bankside)

Walking into Hay’s Galleria at Christmastime always feels special. The building itself, once a historic wharf and now a covered arcade with a glass-vaulted roof, has this blend of old-London character and modern city energy. This is one of my favourite places at Christmas!

Under the glass roof, with the river and city lights just outside, the Christmas tree gives the whole place a warm glow. It’s a cosy little break from the chilly Thames Path, perfect for stepping inside and enjoying a calmer festive moment.

A little extra magic? The Christmas market stalls along the arcade add festive lights, small gifts, mulled-wine scents, and a gentle holiday buzz turn Hay’s Galleria into the perfect little festive hideaway!

🎄 10. Somerset House Christmas tree (The Strand)

Walking into Somerset House at Christmas, with the huge tree right in the middle, always leaves me in awe. 

The 40‑foot tree lights up the neoclassical courtyard beautifully, and whether it’s early evening or late at night, the glow against the historic stone walls feels pure winter magic.

A little extra magic? With the ice rink right beside the Christmas tree, the whole courtyard turns into a real-life winter postcard. It’s truly as beautiful as it is unique!

🎄 11. One New Change Christmas tree (St Paul’s)

One New Change gives a modern, city‑centre festive vibe. The Christmas tree here is more low‑key than the big market or piazza trees, but it adds a touch of holiday cheer among the shops and glass façades.

A little extra magic? Head up to the rooftop terrace for a festive selfie with the gorgeous floral picture frame (see below)! Also the views over St Paul’s Cathedral make it a perfect spot for a holiday photo.

🎄 12. Battersea Power Station Christmas tree

Battersea Power Station has two festive trees this year: one in the central piazza among shops and restaurants, and the main tree at the ice‑skating rink by the riverside. 

The iconic chimneys, the lively shopping centre with its restaurants and cinema, and all the sparkling festive lights combine to make the whole area feel vibrant, magical, and full of holiday cheer.

A little extra magic? The Christmas market at Battersea has handmade gifts, seasonal treats, hot drinks, fun games, and even cosy igloos add a lively, cheerful buzz around the ice rink and glowing tree. It’s a perfect spot to soak up the holiday spirit, even if you’re not skating!

🎄 13. St Christopher’s Place Christmas tree (Oxford Street)

Tucked just off Oxford Street, St Christopher’s Place transforms into “St Christmas Place” each holiday season and it’s a proper festive hideaway. 

The twinkling lights, colourful decorations, and the Christmas tree in the piazza instantly set a merry mood. On top of that, look out for extra touches like a vintage Mini car and giant nutcracker displays that make the place feel playful and Christmassy.

A little extra magic? With lights overhead, cheerful decorations on the streets, and the buzz of shops and cafés around, it’s a perfect for a stroll, a bit of shopping or just to soak up some holiday cheer.

🎄 14. Duke of York Square Christmas tree (Chelsea)

Wandering into Duke of York Square at Christmas feels a bit magical. The Christmas tree at the centre of the square is just the start. Around you, elegant shops, cosy cafés, and stylish architecture set a calm, festive mood.

A little extra magic? The square is decked out in the “12 Days of Christmas” theme: expect whimsical decorations inspired by the carol (from dancing ladies to swans a‑swimming), creative tree designs (flowers, ballet‑shoe embellishments) and a trail of installations popping up around the square and nearby galleries like the Saatchi Gallery. It’s a full Chelsea‑style Christmas experience!

🎄 15. The Connaught Christmas tree (Mayfair)

Strolling up to The Connaught at Christmas always feels a bit special. This year’s tree, a 31‑foot Nordmann Fir designed by artist Urs Fischer, stands proudly outside the hotel. 

It feels more like art than a decoration: each bauble is a glowing LED‑lit sphere with a face generated by AI, meant to celebrate togetherness and diversity. 

A little extra magic? The lights from the tree softly illuminate the elegant Mayfair surroundings: historic façades, quiet evening streets, and that calm, classy city vibe. It feels like a peaceful, art‑infused Christmas corner in the middle of London!

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Feeling inspired? If you’re planning to visit any (or all!) of these Christmas trees, I’d love to hear about your festive adventures. Share your experience on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!

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Check out my other Christmas recommendations for more festive spots, cosy markets, and seasonal inspiration around London here!

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What you need to know to discover the best Christmas trees in London:

• Covent Garden Christmas Tree
  Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 8RF
  Website

• Neal’s Yard Christmas Tree
  Neal’s Yard, Seven Dials, London WC2H 9DP
• Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
  Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN

• St James’s Christmas Tree
  St James’s, London SW1A 1BS (near Sofitel St James’s and The Royal Academy)

• Leadenhall Market Christmas Tree
  Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT

• The Royal Exchange Christmas Tree
  Royal Exchange, Cornhill, London EC3V 3LR
• Pan Pacific Christmas Tree
  Outside Pan Pacific London, Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4QH

• Bankside Christmas Tree
  Near Tower Bridge, Bankside, London SE1 9PP

• Hay’s Galleria Christmas Tree
  Hay’s Galleria, Tooley Street, London SE1 2HD

• Somerset House Christmas Tree
  Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA

• One New Change Christmas Spot
  One New Change, Cheapside, London EC4M 9AF

• Battersea Power Station Christmas Trees

  • Piazza Tree: Battersea Power Station Piazza, London SW8 5BH

  • Ice Rink Tree: Battersea Power Station Ice Rink, London SW8 5BH

• St Christopher’s Place (“St Christmas Place”)
  St Christopher’s Place, London W1U 1NQ

• Duke of York Square Christmas Tree
  Duke of York Square, Chelsea, King’s Road, London SW3 4LY

• The Connaught Christmas Tree
  The Connaught, Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL