UPDATE: London is facing unprecedented chaos as massive crowds flood Oxford Street just days before Christmas, making it nearly impossible for shoppers to move. Videos circulating on social media show scenes of overwhelming congestion, with pedestrians shoulder-to-shoulder, forcing many to walk on the roads instead of crowded pavements.
Authorities report that foot traffic in the West End surged by 9% compared to last year’s Black Friday, contributing to the pandemonium. Eyewitness accounts describe a suffocating atmosphere, with one TikTok user exclaiming, “I couldn’t even record getting into Selfridges — it was something else!”
The chaos extends beyond Oxford Street, affecting popular destinations like Winter Wonderland and Covent Garden, where crowds have been termed “hell” due to the sheer volume of people. Videos depict chaotic scenes in beer halls, with staff struggling to maintain order as patrons nearly topple railings.
With the influx of holiday shoppers, the threat of pickpocketing has escalated. Shoppers are on high alert, with some resorting to locking their bags to avoid theft during the bustling shopping spree. Teonie, 22, and her boyfriend Finlay, 19, traveling from Nottingham, expressed their concerns after hearing about thefts in the area. “I keep my bag under my coat and even that has a lock on it,” Teonie said. “If you lose your phone as a tourist, you’re in big trouble.”
The overwhelming crowds have led to reports of traffic jams and significant delays on the London Underground. Commuters at King’s Cross faced 15-minute queues just to reach the platforms, with many expressing frustration over the congestion. As one visitor noted, “London is extremely busy but it is a nice city.”
As shoppers brace for the final weekend before Christmas, the AA warns that this holiday season will likely see record-breaking traffic, with an estimated 37.5 million leisure trips planned between December 17 and Christmas Eve. The RAC anticipates 4.2 million journeys on Christmas Eve alone, making it the busiest day of the festive period.
Travelers are also advised to anticipate congestion in airports, with Heathrow preparing for its busiest December and Christmas Day on record. CEO Thomas Woldbye stated, “We are fully prepared to deliver an exceptional Christmas experience.”
As the holiday shopping frenzy continues, shoppers should remain vigilant against pickpockets and plan their journeys carefully to navigate the bustling streets of London. The situation is developing rapidly, and updates will follow as the holiday draws closer.
