UPDATE: Central London is engulfed in chaos as massive crowds flock to Oxford Street just days before Christmas. Shoppers are reporting that navigating the area has become nearly impossible, with videos circulating on social media showcasing shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. With December 22, 2025 marking one of the busiest shopping days, shoppers are being warned to remain vigilant against pickpockets.
Footage shared online shows the overwhelming number of people trying to traverse the city, with pedestrians forced off the pavements and onto the roads. One TikTok user exclaimed, “I thought it would be busy but god d***,” highlighting the sheer volume of shoppers. This surge in foot traffic is exacerbated by a reported 9% increase in high street footfall compared to last year.
The scenes of chaos extend beyond Oxford Street. At Winter Wonderland, a viral video captured a packed beer hall where staff struggled to maintain order amid the crowd. In Covent Garden, the atmosphere was described as “hell” as shoppers clutched each other to navigate through the throngs.
With the festive crowds, the risk of pickpocketing has surged. Shoppers like Teonie, 22, and her boyfriend Finlay, 19, who traveled from Nottingham, expressed their concerns. Teonie revealed her anxiety, stating, “I keep my bag under my coat and even that has a lock on it.” The couple is among many who are taking precautions as reports of thefts increase.
Another shopper from Oxford shared her strategy of only bringing a zip-up bag to prevent theft, stating, “It’s so crowded here, it’s a nightmare.” The concern over safety is palpable, with local authorities urging shoppers to remain vigilant.
Transportation systems are also feeling the strain. Reports indicate that King’s Cross station had a queue of over 15 minutes just to access the Underground, with many travelers describing the situation as “carnage.” One traveler noted the chaotic scenes at the station, emphasizing how packed it was on a Sunday morning.
As Christmas shopping peaks, experts predict that UK consumers will spend an astonishing £3.4 billion on last-minute gifts. The AA has warned that this holiday season is set to be the busiest on record, with an estimated 37.5 million leisure car trips planned from December 17 to Christmas Eve.
Travel disruptions are further complicating the situation, as train services experience delays and cancellations, forcing travelers into crowded conditions. Shoppers are advised to plan their journeys carefully and remain aware of their surroundings.
As London braces for the final weekend before Christmas, the chaos is only expected to intensify. Authorities recommend that shoppers stay alert and secure their belongings to avoid becoming victims of theft during this bustling holiday period.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as London navigates this unprecedented holiday rush.
