London Christmas Lights Bus Tour

What is the London Christmas Lights bus tour?

London Christmas Lights bus tours offer a magical, hassle-free way to experience the city's festive splendor from open-top double-deckers. These tours showcase iconic illuminations, including Regent Street's angels, Oxford Street's stars, and Trafalgar Square's Christmas tree, while live guides share entertaining festive stories. Lasting 45-90 minutes, they provide comfortable seating with blankets, family-friendly pricing, and close-up views from 4 meters high. It's an effortless way to see multiple spectacular light displays and famous landmarks in one enchanting evening.

Why should you choose a London Christmas Lights bus tour

Central London Christmas tree with festive lights on a night bus tour.

Magical views of London’s Christmas sparkle

London’s streets are a sight to witness during the festive season, appearing as though they have been dusted with glitter with its immense display of warm lighting and decorated windows. You are cruising straight into your personal Christmas fairy tale!

Tower Bridge illuminated with Christmas lights during a night bus tour in London.

Famous landmarks dressed for the holidays

Seeing London’s markets during the day is already special, but imagine at night? It’s pure magic! You need to keep your eyes out for sustainable stars on Oxford Street, the picture-perfect views of the London Eye bathed in light, and the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree.

Vintage bus touring London's Christmas lights at night.

The best of both decks

Need to stay warm? Snuggle up on the lower deck with heating and AC. Feeling a little adventurous? Head to the open-top upper deck for front-row seats to London’s festive charm.

Double-decker bus touring London Christmas lights on Regent Street.

A guide who makes it fun

These Christmas Light night tours are not just about the glitz and glam; you’re getting the inside scoop from a live guide who brings the city’s stories to life. Think of it as hanging out with your super-knowledgeable friend who knows all the insider secrets and tips.

Double-decker bus touring London Christmas lights on Tootbus route.

A festive treat for kids (and the kid in you)

Santa’s voice narrating the journey? Yes, please! Some of the tours offer live commentary by Father Christmas himself. Add in a Christmas playlist packed with holiday classics handpicked for the tour, and then tis’ the season to be jolly, for both the kids and the adults.

Quick fun without the rush

Fret not, if you don’t have all night. These tours last 60-90 minutes, ensuring that you will soak up all of the Christmas magic without committing your whole evening.

Your ticket options explained

Tour

Starting Point

Timings

Duration

Seating

Guide

Amenities

Tootbus Christmas Lights Bus Tour

Coventry Street, London W1D 6BH

First bus: 4:30pm Last bus: 8pm

60 minutes

First-come, first-served basis

Audio and live

- Audio guides in 9 languages -Earphones provided - Mobile app with map and bus tracking -Christmas playlist

Golden Tours: London Christmas Lights Night Bus Tour

LonAccdon Eye, Victoria, Green Park

Varied timings between 4:15pm to 9pm

90 minutes

Booked in advance

Live

- Access to upper and lower deck (as selected) - Wheelchair and stroller accessible

Big Bus: London Christmas Lights Night Bus Tour

London Eye, Eastbound

First bus: 4pm Last bus: 8pm

90 minutes

First-come, first-serve basis

Live

- Covers several iconic landmarks - Access to both decks (as per choice)

City Sightseeing: London Christmas Lights Bus Tour

Haymarket, outside Tiger Tiger restaurant

Varied timings between 3:30pm 8:10pm

90 minutes

First-come, first-serve basis

Audio

- Christmas playlist - Audio commentary by Santa

What will you see on the London Christmas Lights bus tour?

Christmas-themed double-decker bus tour in New York City with festive decorations.

Piccadilly Circus

This is a popular road junction that connects several smaller streets to London’s West End. During the Christmas season, the air is filled with the melody of carols, the subtle rustling of gift bags, and twinkling lights. Considered the holiday heart of London, this junction reminds you of the joyful spirit of Christmas and how it should be celebrated.

Trafalgar Square

Another one of London’s historic squares that transforms into a lively, bustling market at night. Make sure to visit during the first week of December, particularly on the first Thursday of the month, to experience the annual lighting of the 25-meter Christmas tree, followed by performances from the Salvation Army and poetry readings.

London Eye

During Christmas, the London Eye is a stunning spectacle against the London skyline. During the 10 days leading up to Christmas, the London Eye showcases a light show, lighting up the Ferris wheel in festive colors. This is the perfect time to click those Instagram-worthy selfies.

Westminster Abbey

Built in 1560, Westminster Abbey is one of London’s oldest Gothic churches, beautifully adorned with garlands, wreaths, and warm Christmas lights during the festive season. Don’t miss the annual Together at Christmas carol service in early December, where the world-famous Westminster Abbey Choir fills the historic space with beloved holiday melodies.

Plan your visit

Tips

Accessibility

Restaurants/Cafes to visit

Leicester Square phone booth with Christmas lights and decorations in London.

Eating and drinking any food you may be carrying is not allowed on the bus. So grab something before you get on the bus.
These are single-loop tours, not a hop-on hop-off bus tour, so they cover shorter distances over 60-90 minutes. In case you want to check out any of the attractions/landmarks covered during the tour, feel free to visit them at your leisure.
Traffic may be heavy in London during the Christmas holidays, so the tour may be slightly longer than expected. Expect a 20-minute delay.
Barring one of the experiences where you can book your ticket beforehand, the tours offer seating on a first-come, first-serve basis. You cannot transfer between seating in the upper and lower deck.
Make sure to dress in snug, warm, and comfortable clothing, especially if you’re planning to sit on the upper deck. London can get quite chilly and windy during the Christmas season.

London Christmas Lights illuminating streets during night bus tour.

The buses are wheelchair and stroller accessible. However, each bus only has space for one wheelchair/stroller on the lower deck. Please speak to individual bus operators to check for availability.
For the experiences where seating is offered on a first-come-first-serve basis, children under the age of 4 can travel for free and will not be given a separate seat. If you do require a seat, please purchase a ‘child ticket’.
Small, well-behaved pets are welcome on the bus. Please remember that you are responsible for your furry friend.

Burger & Lobster: Try their festive Garlic Butter Fountain, served fondue-style with lobster, prawn skewers, and fries, available until year’s end.
The Spaniards Inn: For a Dickensian vibe, enjoy a five-course Christmas dinner in this historic 1585 pub, featuring roast turkey, beef Wellington, and buttery scallops.
Sketch: This West End bar dazzles with gingerbread houses, floral displays, and whimsical décor, perfect for an indulgent Christmas meal.
Butcher’s Hook and Cleaver: A local pub serving classic British Christmas dishes like roast turkey and apple-smoked trout, ideal for a cozy holiday meal.

Frequently asked questions about London Christmas Lights bus tour

Do the London Christmas Lights bus tours run in all weather conditions?

Yes, the tours operate in most weather conditions but be prepared for London’s unpredictable winter. Dress warmly and bring waterproof gear if rain is expected. Open-top decks are available for the adventurous, while heated lower decks provide a cozy alternative.

What happens if there’s heavy traffic during the London Christmas Lights bus tours?

London’s traffic can be busier during the holiday season, which might slightly extend the tour duration. It’s a good idea to allow some buffer time in your evening plans to account for potential delays.

How should I dress for a Christmas lights tour in London?

London winters can be cold and windy, especially on the open-top decks. Wear warm, layered clothing, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you might explore nearby attractions before or after the tour.

Can I combine the bus tour with other Christmas activities in London?

Absolutely! Pair the bus tour with a visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park or an evening stroll along Covent Garden’s festive displays. Some tours start or end near popular attractions, making it easy to extend your holiday adventure.

From happy customers

Daniel

Romania

Jul, 2026

I had a great experience using Headout to book my Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter ticket for July 5th. The entire booking process was smooth, intuitive, and very fast. I received my confirmation promptly, and all the information I needed was clearly explained, including entry details and instructions for the day of the visit. The ticket worked perfectly without any issues, making the experience completely stress-free. I also appreciated how easy it was to navigate the app and access my booking at any time. The prices were competitive, and the platform felt reliable and trustworthy throughout the process. Visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour was an unforgettable experience, and Headout played an important role in making everything so seamless. I would definitely use Headout again for future trips and attractions, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a convenient, secure, and user-friendly way to book tickets for popular destinations.

From London: Harry Potter™ Warner Bros. Studio Tickets with Coach Transfers

Marco

Jul, 2026

+ 1 more

Accurate and punctual schedules, a welcoming staff, and freedom of movement during the visit. Even when the agency was closed, they were available by phone and provided accurate information.

View original review in Italian

From London: Harry Potter™ Warner Bros. Studio Tickets with Coach Transfers

Peter

United Kingdom

Jul, 2026

Really easy to book London Eye tickets with Headout. Best bit, our two tickets appeared on one screen, so easy to scan. Got to London Eye 30mins early, but there was no problem joining the Fast Track queue. My lad was a bit apprehensive before we "boarded", but we both had a great time enjoying the towering views of London, near and far.

Christmas at the London Eye

Fathima

Jul, 2026

Hassle free straight forward booking process. Acceptable queuing time, not too long. Nice views. Great experience overall.

Christmas at the London Eye

Mollie

United Kingdom

Jul, 2026

+ 2 more

Our tour guide Emily was brilliant! My mum was nervous as she isnt the best with heights and she made her feel ALOT more at ease, even going through a couple of things twice 🤣

Up at the O2 Snow Globe Experience

David

United Kingdom

Jul, 2026

We arrived a little late. But the ladies there were amazing and got us onto the next booking. The climb was tough I get it about switching sides to climb for wear and tear but mist people a predominantly right handed so was tough to kinda switch hands. The view was amazing. And the guide Rebecca was so knowledgeable not just about up but all of London and most importantly where the pub was. My only real bug bear is the stupid shoes. I had brand new sketchers on and apparently didn't have enough grip. I get it climbing shoes but damn there uncomfortable. And the price. Like staff wages. Wear tear of all equipment insurance. But nearly 90 quid for 2 people means Ur doing 450 quid every 15 mins. Fir a view of London yeah great still think you should bake it 20

Up at the O2 Snow Globe Experience

Agnieszka

Poland

Jun, 2026

Official website prices. Free cancellation 24 hrs before. No problem with entry. Everything went smoothly and we spend in Legoland Windsor great time. We're there on Friday so no so many people which was great for my kids with autism spectrum disorder. Highly recommend :) Thank you :)

Christmas at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

Esra

Turkey

Jun, 2026

Legoland is the sound evidence of being for all ages. It was a very joyful day with the kids. Awesome details such as brick fries, Lego squirrels on trees, royal ceremony in Lego Buckhingam Palace among many others...

Christmas at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort