Wednesday 22 November, even more of Marylebone’s charming streets were transformed for the Christmas season as the neighbourhood launched a series of new dazzling festive lights. The displays include an illuminated festive door on George Street which captured the imagination of all passers-by. Further along George Street joyful festoon lighting blanketed the sky at George’s Pocket Park, the street’s quiet courtyard public space.
A brand-new installation of twinkling lights was added to the canopy adjoining Marylebone Station and the Landmark Hotel, adding to the area’s festive makeover with a warm glow to a new location. New motifs inspired by local architecture are featured on the lamppost columns along Baker Street, Harewood Avenue and Melcombe Street giving more of the area’s streets the chance to shine.
The ever-popular geese on the Baker Street and Marylebone Road junction have also returned this year. This display, inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s only Sherlock Holmes Christmas story, ‘The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle’, will not only perch on columns this Christmas, they will also be taking flight on the roof of The Wonderpass – the vibrant cultural crossing that connects Baker Street Station to South Marylebone Road. These unique lights provide a festive backdrop for visitors to experience the magical season throughout this renowned destination.
Portman Square saw the return of the glittering giant bauble in a brand-new colour scheme and the beautiful gardens of Manchester Square and Portman Square are now warmly illuminated to enhance the beauty furthermore.
To revel in the full experience, visitors can enjoy a free festive Christmas lights walk on Tuesday 5 December at 6pm where a professional guide will talk through the stories and history of these illuminated locations. Tickets are free and bookable in advance via the www.makeitmarylebone.co.uk.
Once again, the festive lights are environmentally conscious, designed with energy efficient LEDs. In an effort to conserve even further energy, the displays are set on reduced timers from 4pm – 11pm each day, still providing plenty of time to explore the magical displays.
The Baker Street Quarter’s displays complete Marylebone’s coverage of lights. Visitors are also encouraged to explore Marylebone Village which has a brand-new Christmas lights display this year. With sustainability at the forefront, the new lights are made out of 19,269 plastic recycled bottles and are as strikingly beautiful as they are sustainable. Also look out for Portman Marylebone’s festive activities which are be sure to dazzle visitors to their streets.
Brimming with historical beauty, the Marylebone area cared for Baker Street Quarter boasts over 75 world class brands and over 120 restaurants, cafes and bars – twelve with Michelin stars, along with a breadth of cultural experiences including the Marylebone Theatre, Madame Tussauds and The Wallace Collection – making it a one stop spot for Christmas exploring, shopping and dining needs. Celebrate the Christmas cheer with special festive offers and experiences from the many shops and restaurants.
Kirsty Tullett-Jones, Head of Marketing and Communications at Baker Street Quarter Partnership, commented: “We’re excited to have launched an extended new festive light display throughout our wonderful streets of Marylebone this season, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors to get into the Christmas spirit.
“We encourage everyone to visit our new lights whilst they do a spot of shopping, dining and exploring. The abundance and variety of retailers across Marylebone provides visitors with the perfect destination for all their Christmas shopping needs, and the plethora of delicious dining opportunities means there’s a place for everyone to celebrate with friends, colleagues and loved ones.”
Marylebone is a stone’s throw away from five transport hubs including Baker Street, Marylebone, Marble Arch, Bond Street and Paddington, – making it easily accessible to its neighbouring London boroughs and those farther afield.
