Lady Reveals the Loveliest London Shopping Arcades at Christmas

London is abuzz with Christmas cheer. It’s also busy with last-minute Christmas shopping. Every time I venture into the heart of Oxford Street, I’m overwhelmed by crowds. But there’s a silver lining to this mayhem, and that’s the city’s seasonal decorations. For me, the best of these can be seen in London’s shopping arcades at Christmas.

London Shopping Arcades at Christmas

London’s main arcades are in Mayfair and St James’s. Up Bond Street and along Piccadilly, they often fly under the radar.

But during the Christmas season they come alive with lights and baubles. Seeing their festive regalia is worth a trip in itself, but the shops they hold—many of which are very traditional British ones—are worth a browse, too.

Royal Arcade

First up is the Royal Arcade. Hiding in plain sight on Bond Street, this is my favorite place to soak up the season.

The dramatic upper story is Christmassy in itself, but the addition of trees and garlands gives it the perfect festive touches.

Add to that shops selling delicious chocolates and other gifts, and it’s hard to stay away from this place during the run-up to December 25th.

Burlington Arcade

A few steps away from the Royal Arcade, Burlington Arcade is one of the best-known London shopping arcades at Christmas and beyond.

I love the fact that the decorations here change every year. They bring a magical aura to the arcade and never fail to lure me in with their colors.

There are plenty of fun shops to explore here, too. If anyone in your life loves luxury goods, this is a great place to pick up unique gifts.

Piccadilly Arcade

Just across the road, Piccadilly Arcade is another of the prettiest shopping arcades at Christmas.

I love how the lanterns along the domed ceiling are enhanced with festive lights, and that the shops are graced with garlands.

This arcade has good boutiques, too. There are plenty of independent ones selling all kinds of fun gifts.

Princes Arcade

Just down the street from Piccadilly Arcade, Princes Arcade is perhaps the most hidden of all. But those who find it are rewarded with the sight of beautiful decorations and an abundance of seasonal cheer.

The baubles and lights are just the things to brighten up the day or night and get me in the seasonal spirit.

The shops are full of great gifts, and there’s a cafe here if you need to rest your legs after a big day of battling crowds.

Shopping Arcades at Christmas

And that’s what I love so much about London at this time of year—no matter how busy it gets, there’s always enough cheer to go around. I hope this blog post has inspired you to get out and see the shopping arcades this season.

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