4 Christmas Experiences in England to Build a Day Around

1.London by Night Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and Live Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,040 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $41Our pick

Ride from the London Eye through The Strand, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Fortnum & Mason, and Big Ben. A live English-speaking guide adds history, jokes, and Christmas traditions. The open top gives the best views, but seats are first come, first served and the bus does not stop during the 60 to 90-minute route.

“This was a great tour to do of the city on the first couple of days upon arriving. Getting to see a lay of the land and the beautiful Christmas time lights was lovely. I would 100% recommend getting there well before the 15-minute suggestion on the instructions. The earlier you are the more likely you are to pick your preferred seating, as it first comes first serve and you are not necessarily guaranteed a spot on the top/open part of the double bus to see all the lights. I would also suggest booking the tour during a time where there is not rush hour, or don't book anything after…”

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2.London Christmas Lights Tour by Vintage Double-Decker Bus

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 135 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes (approx.) · from $43

Ride through central London on a restored 50-year-old double-decker bus while a local guide points out Christmas lights, royal landmarks, and famous streets. You’ll pass Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Harrods, Oxford Street, and Regent Street. Guides such as Steve, John, and Magnus add history and humor, but upper-deck seating is not guaranteed.

“Tour route was great. Could’ve been accompanied with Xmas music and less tour guide droning about the economy and acting like everyone was unfamiliar with the concept of Christmas”

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3.London Christmas Lights Guided Tour With Christmas Music

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 118 reviews · 1 hour 45 minutes (approx.) · from $40Top rated

Walk through central London’s brightest Christmas displays with a guide, silent disco headset, and festive music. The route includes Oxford Street, Neal’s Yard, Seven Dials, Leicester Square, Regent Street, and Soho. Kris is one named host associated with the tour. Expect singing, dancing, photo stops, and a lively 1-hour-45-minute group outing.

“My friends and I had a really great time definitely recommend and want to try one of the other ones soon”

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4.Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 106 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $17Best value

Start beside York Minster at 4 pm for a 90-minute English walking tour with guides such as Sarah. Hear how Roman Saturnalia, Viking mid-winter customs, medieval beliefs, Victorian literature, and York chocolate shaped Christmas, then finish by the Christmas Market on Parliament Street.

“Don't miss this heart-warming and fascinating Christmas tour. Sarah was fantastic with her mix of history, Christmas tales, and stories behinds the holiday traditions that brought the season to life. It made me see York in a wonderful way and better understand and appreciate the Christmas traditions I hold dear in my family. We took the tour our first night in York and it set the stage for our next three days of an unforgettable vacation.”

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