What to do and see on Oxford Street this Christmas: the highlights
Magical moments: Don’t miss Selfridges’ twinkling light and music display, happening every 15 minutes between 5-9pm, while John Lewis has its own Santa’s grotto experience
Tasty treats and fine dining: Try LAVO’s viral 10-layer cake and head to The Nest at Treehouse Hotel for dinner and drinks with a view
Key dates: The Big Day of Joy, featuring festive offers and on-street performances, is on Sunday 7 December
Picture this: it’s a cold, crisp day and you can hear the jolly tones of your favourite Christmas carols playing in the distance; it’s getting dark early but the starry lights that hang above make the whole scene feel straight out of a movie. And you’re feeling quite pleased with yourself – you’ve stumbled across the perfect gift for that friend who’s impossible to buy for, and all that lies ahead for the evening is a cosy drink in the nook of a nearby bar. Fancy a festive day out like this? Well, Oxford Street – a Christmassy wonderland at this time of year – has you covered. Whether you’ve got the kids in tow or are looking to plan a fancy date night, there’s plenty to keep on your radar…
Magical shopping experiences abound on Oxford Street
Selfridges’ landmark store is a must-visit this festive season
Selfridges
Of course, no mention of Oxford Street can ignore its world-famous shopping credentials. There’s a reason it’s one of the most well-known streets in the country, and its huge range of brands and iconic stores have long made it the ultimate retail destination for Londoners and visitors alike. And at this time of year, there’s even more to discover.
As one of 2025’s most exciting arrivals to the street, IKEA – which has its own Christmas pop-up for the season – is a must-visit, while Selfridges’ legendary Christmas shop is dripping in festive cheer. This year, the department store has joined forces with Disney for a special collaboration featuring bedazzling window displays starring a host of beloved characters; the transformation of its façade into the one-and-only Disney castle; and a light show every 15 minutes between 5pm-9pm.
If you’re after the ultimate sanctuary for mental relaxation to recharge the mind and body, book in for a treatment at the UK’s first Rituals Mind Oasis. You can also enjoy a selection of pampering treatments with vegan products that transform, rejuvenate and revive at the LUSH Spa.
Meanwhile, John Lewis & Partners (which also boasts its own Christmas shop) is hosting a bookable Santa’s Grotto experience in partnership with Lego, where kids can meet the big man himself and receive a special gift at the end.
Immersive fun for the kids and adults alike
There’s a truly mind-bending time in store for all ages at Twist Museum
TWIST Museum
For even more family-friendly fun, head down to Oxford Street’s Big Day of Joy on 7 December, a special event with live performances, offers and festive activities on the agenda. If you can’t make that, don’t fret: there are plenty of other options for the whole family to enjoy. At Twist Museum, get immersed in a mind-bending adventure where art, science and sensory play meet via optical illusions, interactive displays and fun photo opps.
On the other end of Oxford Street, FRAMELESS’ experiential galleries – brought to life by dozens of animated masterpieces – can provide some welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Christmas crowds. As can The Outernet, which, from 10am right until 11:30pm every day, exhibits impressive digital art on its larger-than-life screens.
A romantic date to remember
The 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen is the ideal spot for a drink and a bite with a view
John Lewis
But it’s not all about families. With a host of luxury restaurants, charming bars and stylish hotels in the vicinity, it seems a pity to pay a visit to Oxford Street without revelling in the romance of it all. So why not make a date night out of it? For gorgeous views, head to the 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen. Don’t worry, there are chic, heated igloos you can book so you can enjoy the city views whatever the weather.
You’ll find another rooftop bar at Aqua Kyoto, whose menu features innovative takes on Japanese cuisine, while Aqua Nueva, next door, offers award-winning Spanish tapas in a stylish setting. For contemporary Italian fare, try Amalfi: its menu of trusty pizza and pasta might be just what you need at the end of a hectic day.
Over at Punch Room – a sophisticated cocoon of a bar with wood-panelled walls and atmospheric lighting – you’ll find a delicious menu of Southeast Asian spice-inspired punch cocktails. Those looking for a fancy meal should book a table at The Berners Tavern, Jason Atherton’s renowned restaurant. Both are located at the London EDITION, so if you’re considering a staycation in the capital, look no further than this stylish city hideaway. The Restaurant at Sanderson, another chic hotel in the area, is a great fine dining option, while The Nest, The Treehouse’s rooftop bar, boasts 360-degree skyline views. Other hotel options worth checking out include The BoTree (home to LAVO’s famous 10-layer cake) and Radisson Blu Bond Street. It might just be the perfect end to your festive day out.