If you’re not new around here, there’s a ~95% chance you’ve heard us bang on about Leadenhall Market – the stunningly picturesque interior that was used to represent Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and dates back to the 14th century. In fact, the Lord Mayor Richard ‘Dick’ Whittington even gifted the place to the City of London all the way back in 1411!
It looks like a dream all year round, but there’s something that gives it a whole other layer of brilliance come Christmas time. Yes, it’s another Christmas display, but it’s another that falls under the essential festive viewing category. And, you’ll be filled with joy to learn that we now know when the sparkle will be coming back to Leadenhall Market.
Last week, Leadenhall Market unveiled their effervescent light display with an appearance from the current Lord Mayor to do the honours of switching them on. Visitors to the Grade II*-listed building were treated to a spectacle-filled night as the switch was flipped. Guests will now be wooed into the main room via a brand-new light tunnel sprinkled with snow, before being treated to various performances and events happening inside.
Oh yeah, the tree. The tree itself is the spectacular centrepiece of the space, and will tower eight feet above the historic ground of Leadenhall Market. LED lights cover it, changing their colours as quick as you can release the “oooo” and “ahhhh” out of your mouths. There are also baubles covering the fir. Who doesn’t love a bauble when it’s done right? Not you and certainly not I.
The festive season at Leadenhall Market
But this is just the start of Christmas at Leadenhall. Throughout the winter, revellers can wander through and – aside from getting a shot for the ‘gram in front of the LED-light bedecked Christmas tree – pick out the perfect Christmas decorations from Windsor Flowers.
The Victorian market has also announced a line-up of joyful pop-ups that will put even the Scrooge-iest if Scrooges in a good mood. Visitors can expect the likes of wreath-making workshops, live music from brass bands and choirs, an alpine lodge to cosy up in and – wait for it – a toy museum. Yep, Leadenhall Market is getting the full North Pole treatment.
Guests can also take part in one of Leadenhall Market’s popular guided walks to learn about the roots and history of the attraction with a festive theme. This year, it’s about the past and present of the market, taking you all the way back to Roman times towards the days of Dick Whittington, before diving into the Dickensian festivities in the Victorian period. These take place each Wednesday at 6:30pm – 8pm between November 22 – December 13.
Learn more about Leadenhall Market’s Christmas workshops and festive guided walks at their website.
