Hotels near Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree

Every year since 1947, the city of Oslo has given London a Norwegian spruce for Trafalgar Square as thanks for British support during the Second World War. The tree is lit in early December and stands until early January, with carol singing beneath it on most evenings during Advent.

In recent years a small Christmas market has also set up on the square. The tree itself is decorated simply, in Norwegian style, with vertical strings of white lights.

Trafalgar Square sits between Westminster, the West End and the river, so it is easy to fit into any route between the other London Christmas markets. The National Gallery, free to enter, faces the square from the north side.

Pro Tip: Come in the early evening during Advent to hear carols under the tree, then step into the National Gallery, which is free and a welcome warm-up on a cold night.