Where to See the Best Christmas Trees in London 🎄

If twinkly Christmas trees make your heart flutter (same), then London in December is your kind of wonderland. From 60-foot Nordic spruces to tiny, tasteful firs in hotel lobbies, the city is packed with trees dressed to impress.

Whether you’re chasing photo ops, planning a festive walk, or just want to soak up those cosy December vibes, here’s where to see the best Christmas trees in London this winter.

I’m Hazel, a London-obsessed travel blogger who will happily zigzag across the city just to see a beautifully lit pine. Here are my top picks for trees that sparkle, glow, and bring the festive drama.

Trafalgar Square 🎄

Trafalgar Square’s tree is a tradition. It’s a gift from Norway to the UK every year since 1947.

It’s tall, elegant, and, admittedly, slightly minimalist compared to some of the showier trees in town. Still, it’s iconic, especially when lit up against the backdrop of the National Gallery and the fountains below.

Tip: Swing by in the evening when local choirs often sing carols beneath it.

Covent Garden 🎁

Covent Garden goes big. The tree here is one of the largest in London, with thousands of twinkly lights, giant red bows, and a whole square of festive energy around it.

Add in mistletoe chandeliers, buskers, and snow machines (it snows every hour on the hour!), and it’s pretty much impossible not to feel Christmassy.

Come early for photos – it gets super busy later in the day.

St Pancras International ✨

This indoor tree is a showstopper every single year – from a floral explosion to a giant stack of books or a beauty-product-themed marvel.

Sponsored by different brands annually, it’s more of an art installation than a traditional pine, but it’s always very cool. This year’s tree has a charitable aim for Great Ormond Street Hospital.

It’s right in the station concourse, so perfect if you’re arriving by train or just fancy a warm, indoor dose of sparkle (you don’t need a train ticket).

👉 Read more: London St Pancras International Christmas Trees: A Festive Flashback.

Claridge’s Hotel 🎀

Each year, Claridge’s unveils a one-of-a-kind tree designed by a famous fashion house – past years have seen trees by Dior, Karl Lagerfeld, and Dolce & Gabbana.

It’s always completely unique, often unexpected, and very fancy.

You don’t have to be a guest to peek in the lobby, but do dress nicely and maybe grab a cocktail at the bar while you’re there.

The Connaught, Mayfair 🌟

Just around the corner from Claridge’s, The Connaught does a very different take on festive decor.

Each year, their outdoor Christmas tree is designed by a renowned contemporary artist – past creatives have included Tracey Emin, Dame Rachel Whiteread, and Damien Hirst, turning this into more of a cultural moment than your average spruce.

Expect something minimalist but stunning – glowing circles, geometric lanterns, or even neon poetry in the branches.

It’s a quieter, classier photo spot, and right near some of Mayfair’s prettiest boutique shop displays.

Leadenhall Market 🎅

In the heart of the City of London, Leadenhall Market is gorgeous year-round, but at Christmas it really shines.

The tree here glows under the market’s Victorian arches, surrounded by bauble-bedecked shopfronts and festive lunch crowds.

It’s a great midweek stop if you’re exploring the City or heading toward Tower Bridge.

Somerset House Ice Rink Tree ⛸️

Set in the grand courtyard of Somerset House, this tree is surrounded by skaters, fairy lights, and festive music. It’s beautifully styled, and the setting makes it feel straight out of a Christmas romcom.

Book a skate session or just come to watch and sip mulled wine from the rink-side café. There are skating rinks all over London at Christmas, but this one is the most popular.

The Ritz London 🎩

If you’re after festive glamour, the tree at The Ritz never disappoints. It’s all gold ribbon, crystal ornaments, and a level of opulence that only The Ritz can pull off.

Step into the Palm Court to see it up close (ideal if you’re heading in for afternoon tea). It’s a tree with serious ‘main character energy’, and the whole hotel is dressed to the nines for the season.

Winter by the River Tree 🎡

Set between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, Winter by the River has one of the most photogenic trees in the city, with Tower Bridge twinkling in the background.

It’s part of the Southbank’s festive market stretch, with mulled wine stalls, food huts, and unbeatable views over the Thames. A great stop on a riverside Christmas walk.

King’s Cross Coal Drops Yard 🌲

This newer shopping and dining area always puts up something a little different – a sustainable tree, a glowing geometric installation, or a modern twist on the classic spruce.

Less touristy than Covent Garden, and full of great little cafés and indie shops. Wrap your hands around a hot drink and enjoy the arty vibes.

Coal Drops also has two wonderful classic pine trees (and a fun Curling pop-up too) for the festive season.

Final thoughts ✨

London does Christmas trees with flair – from centuries-old traditions to modern marvels covered in LEDs. Whether you’re tree-hopping across the city or just want a few sparkly moments between London hot chocolate stops, these stops are guaranteed to give you that warm festive fuzz.