Fleet Street Quarter, one of London’s most historic and characterful districts, was transformed into a beacon of festive joy on Wednesday 19 November 2025, as writer, comedian, presenter and singer Alexander Armstrong officially switched on the Fleet Street Quarter Christmas Lights, marking the start of the launch of a long-term partnership between the Fleet Street Quarter Business Improvement District and the National Literacy Trust, of which Armstrong is a long-standing ambassador, and its Festive Fleet Street Quarter 2025 programme.
The evening also saw the unveiling of the Fleet Street Quarter ‘Snoopy in the City’ Sculpture Trail, created in partnership with Wild in Art and Peanuts™, celebrating 75 years of Peanuts and the enduring legacy of the world’s most beloved beagle. From 19 November 2025 to 16 January 2026, twelve artist-designed Snoopy sculptures will be displayed across Fleet Street Quarter in a free trail. Each one is inspired by the spirit of imagination and storytelling that connects both the area’s rich publishing heritage and the mission of the National Literacy Trust.
A celebration of stories, light and community, the event took place at Ludgate Circus, the heart of Fleet Street Quarter. The switch-on moment was met with cheers from Londoners, workers and visitors who gathered to witness the historic district come alive with light, sound and festive spectacle.=
Armstrong led the countdown before illuminating the twinkling lights that now light up the Quarter, creating a dazzling backdrop for a season of celebration.
Alexander Armstrong said:
“As someone who believes deeply in the power of words and imagination, it’s a real honour to help Fleet Street Quarter shine this Christmas and to celebrate the launch of its partnership with the National Literacy Trust. This is a place built on storytelling, and what better way to mark that than by lighting it up for all to enjoy.”
The 2025 celebrations proudly mark the beginning of a landmark partnership; Fleet Street Quarter’s long-term partnership with the National Literacy Trust, a charity dedicated to improving reading, writing and communication skills in disadvantaged communities across the UK. The partnership brings the charity’s vital mission to the historic heart of British journalism and publishing. As the birthplace of the nation’s printed press and a district shaped by centuries of literary and media innovation, Fleet Street Quarter provides a uniquely powerful backdrop for championing the importance of reading, writing and communication.
With the area now entering an exciting new chapter, including looking ahead to its second literary festival ‘Festival of Words’ in 2026 and a strengthened commitment to culture, creativity and community engagement, this partnership creates an authentic connection between Fleet Street’s storied past and its dynamic future.
Lady Lucy French OBE, Chief Executive of Fleet Street Quarter, commented:
“Fleet Street Quarter is a place where stories have always been born, from newspapers to novels, poetry to publishing. The launch of our partnership with the National Literacy Trust celebrates that legacy, making the world of words and stories accessible to everyone, connecting our cultural past with a brighter future for all. We’re thrilled to welcome Alexander Armstrong to launch this very special festive season.”
Together with the National Literacy Trust, Fleet Street Quarter will celebrate the power of words, inspire the next generation of storytellers and reaffirm the district’s role as a place where ideas, learning and imagination thrive.
