Winter Light returns to London’s Southbank with dazzling new riverside installations

London’s Winter Light trail is back at the Southbank Centre for the festive season, transforming the Thames riverside into a glowing open-air gallery of colour, reflection and creativity - running now until Sunday 18th January 2026.

This year’s edition features six brand-new installations alongside returning crowd favourites, making it one of the capital’s must-see free winter experiences. From dusk till late, the Southbank will be illuminated by bold, shimmering artworks that play with light, architecture and movement, offering the perfect excuse for an evening stroll by the water.

Among the new highlights is Beacon by acclaimed designer Lee Broom, positioned just outside the Royal Festival Hall. Shaped like a chandelier and synchronised to Big Ben’s hourly chime, it delivers a glittering light show every hour. Other additions include France-Lise McGurn’s neon pieces, inspired by 1990s fashion adverts, and vibrant window artworks from Polish artist Otecki.

Returning favourites also make a comeback, including Nathaniel Rackowe’s Desire Lines, stretching through the riverside trees in a ribbon of glowing light, and Jakob Kvist’s Dichroic Sphere, a stunning geometric dome that’s become a Winter Light signature.

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Header image credit: southbankcentre.co.uk