Oxford Street attracts over 200 million visitors every year and is home to some of the London’s best-known shops, including department stores and flagship outposts.
Formerly a residential area, with raucous pubs, theatres and a gallows for public executions at the Marble Arch end, it was redeveloped towards the end of the 19th century. John Lewis opened in 1864, Selfridges in 1909, Debenhams in 1919 and House of Fraser in 1935.
Other significant buildings lining the street include The 100 Club, a gig venue which was a major player in the London punk scene.
The Christmas lights are an annual tradition that has been running since 1959.
