Festive Season in London
Written by Isabella Symonds Willmott
Step into a season of elegance and enchantment, where London’s historic charm meets the glamour of the holidays. From glittering streets and grand hotel lobbies to champagne toasts on rooftop terraces, the city comes alive with unforgettable moments.
At Christmas, London dazzles. The city becomes a winter jewel wrapped in golden lights! Iconic streets shimmer with stunning Christmas lights and shop window displays are mesmerizing, and five-star hotels unveil grand trees and sparkling chandeliers. Dip between rooftop bars serving champagne or a cosy English pub serving a warm glass of mulled wine, London gives you it all! From ice rinks beneath centuries-old architecture, to lavish afternoon teas and midnight strolls past Palaces, London at Christmas is pure enchantment, its sophisticated, sparkly, and unforgettable.
TIPS FOR A FESTIVE LONDON VISIT
Plan ahead: Make a list of all the places you want to see and double-check how far they are from each other. London is big, and it's surprisingly easy to underestimate travel times and distances!
Go classic: Skip the Uber, hop in a black cab for the full London experience. There's nothing like a ride with a real cabbie who knows every shortcut (and probably has a story or two).
Fashion meets function: Pack your most comfortable and fabulous boots. You’ll be walking a lot, and there’s no reason you can’t look great while doing it. Also bring warm coats!
The perfect bag: Opt. for a medium-sized handbag, big enough to carry your essentials but light enough to stay easy on your shoulders. Make sure it zips or closes securely for peace of mind while you explore.
Jet lag fix: Bring melatonin if you're flying in from afar. You’ll want to be well-rested to make the most of every magical moment in the city.
Style & Brand Picks:
Sandro & Maje: Perfect for capturing that effortlessly chic London winter look.
Charlotte Simone: Known for standout coats that blend style and warmth—ideal for making an impression.
Massimo Dutti: Reliable staples and layers that keep you cozy without sacrificing elegance in typical London weather.
Films to Watch Before You Go:
Get in the London Christmas spirit with these timeless favorites:
Love Actually — a heartwarming holiday classic filled with London charm.
The Holiday — a cozy romantic escape perfect for festive vibes.
Notting Hill — a charming love story set in one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
Playlist: Michael Bublé’s Christmas Album
Yes, it’s a classic... everyone knows, but it perfectly captures that warm, traditional English Christmas spirit.
Local Flavors to Try:
Mince pie & an English Breakfast tea. Truly British in every bite and sip.
Sunday Roast at the Pub. With all the trimmings, a must, the ultimate experience.
The Lanesborough
EXPERT TIPS
Whitney Hawkings
Bettina Prentice, a native New Yorker based in London, is an independent curator, advisor and cultural strategist. A founding curator of The Peninsula Hotels’ global “Art in Resonance” from 2018 to 2024, she now serves as a Global Cultural Advisor to the brand. She is currently at work on several curatorial projects including a film with multidisciplinary artists Gerard & Kelly.
Prentice has advised some of the world’s foremost artists, cultural institutions, galleries and luxury brands including Google, Tiffany & Co., Christie’s and Hermés. She serves on the Board of Directors of Creative Time and is a founding member of the Artemis Council of the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York.
IN FLIGHT ESSENTIALS: Thank goodness for Sisley-Paris Black Rose Cream Mask before landing!
PACKING TIPS: Luxury to me is a physical copy of The New Yorker for the long form articles so do pick one up at the airport. I invariably must ask someone else for a pencil for the crossword, this almost always initiates a meaningful conversation of some kind or another.
I find great joy in supporting local craftspeople throughout New York State. I just made a pilgrimage to Behida Dolic in Hudson (90 miles North of NYC) for the most elegant of handmade straw hats!
THE FILM TO WATCH/BOOK TO READ BEFORE DEPARTURE: “Ninth Street Women” by Mary Gabriel looks at the female artists who shaped culture against all odds in post-war America. You will look at everything differently on your trip to MoMA.
Watch Julian Schnabel’s brilliant 1996 film “Basquiat” for its poetic visual journey through the gritty downtown New York of my childhood. And we can all agree the casting is a thrill!
FAVORITE HOTEL: Peninsula New York is my home away from home. Tell them I sent you. Property is newly renovated with a brilliant spa and the pool has views up and down 5th avenue that are simply unbeatable.
MEMORABLE MEALS: We lived on Gramercy Park and were lucky enough to have Union Square Cafe in the neighborhood. Everything they do is wonderful.
As a family we are unanimous that nothing beats a pizza from John’s of Bleecker Street (founded in 1929). We all know a proper slice of pizza must be folded in half.
THE DRINK TO ORDER: Fresh iced tea everywhere. You rarely find one in London and I am just jonesing.
BAR OF CHOICE: Jon Neidich’s The Nines is the place we go to see all our friends.
FAVORITE SHOP: PORTA in Brooklyn for dinnerware, glassware and linens
WELLNESS TREATMENT TO TRY: Any woman struggling with reproductive health should see reflexologist Vera Krijn. Her name is passed from one New York woman to another with great love and reverence. Now you have it too.
PRO TIP: Smile at strangers! Say thank you and make eye contact. And tip generously - lots of folks struggling to pay their bills in New York.
STAY
Some say London feels like a storybook at Christmas — twinkling lights, crisp air, and that unmistakable holiday magic around every corner. And with the sheer number of incredible hotels to choose from, you’d think it was a city built for cozy winter retreats. Here are some of the best places to stay this festive season…
SAVOR
The only problem with dining in London at Christmas is choosing where to go — the city is overflowing with festive bites, cozy pubs, elegant dining rooms, and twinkly seasonal menus. From mince pies to Michelin stars and everything in between, London truly shines as a food lover’s winter wonderland.
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thomascubitt.com
Address: 44 Elizabeth Street, Belgravia, London SW1W 9PA
Phone: +44 20 7730 6760If you’re looking for a British pub but with some class, Thomas Cubitt is it. Nestled in the charming streets of Belgravia, this classic London pub is traditional warmth. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, seasonal British menu, and drinks (of course), it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. All the food is made fresh from scratch in-house, serving simple yet delicious British classics with quality ingredients. It offers a lively yet cosy and relaxed vibe, Thomas Cubitt delivers authentic London charm with great food and drinks!
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theledbury.com
Address: 127 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AQ
Phone: +44 20 7792 9090
Nestled into a cozy townhouse in the West Village, The Waverly Inn is the sort of institution that feels both old school and trendy all at once. The hotspot opened in 2006 and has remained an A-List go-to ever since, serving up delicious New York classics alongside excellent people watching. From their house made biscuits to the truffle mac and cheese and the Waverly burger, this is NYC comfort food at its best. -
34mayfair.co.uk
Address: 34 Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, London W1K 2HR
Phone: +44 20 7499 2234Yes it’s a tourist destination but if you look closely you’ll also spot locals lining up to pick up their pastrami, corned beef and loaves of rye bread too. Katz’s shot to stardom in the “I’ll have what she’s having” scene of When Harry Met Sally, but it has been open on the Lower East Side since 1888 and locals in the know have been getting their deli mainstays there ever since. If having a classic New York City pastrami, corned beef sandwich or bowl of matzo ball soup is on your hit list then this is the place to do it.
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rivercafe.co.uk
Address: Thames Wharf, Rainville Road, London W6 9HA
Phone: +44 20 7386 4200
The River Café is more than just a restaurant, it’s a London institution. Famed for its vibrant menu and seasonally led dishes, this riverside gem serves food that’s as simple as it is exquisite, that has made it world-renowned. Beloved by chefs, creatives, and celebrities, The River Café has long been a magnet for high-profile diners looking for unfussy food done to absolute perfection. Chic and place you want to tell others you’ve been too, where A-listers dine shoulder to shoulder with locals, all drawn by the same thing: the food. -
ottolenghi.co.uk
Address: Notting Hill, Marylebone & BelgraviaLed by renowned chef and cookbook author Yotam Ottolenghi, these cafés are anything but ordinary. Perfect for a quick, beautiful lunch on the go and known for bold, vibrant flavours and Middle Eastern–inspired dishes and salads, they offer the kind of food that feels casual but tastes exceptional. And of course, the sweet counter that makes your eyes sparkly and mouth water - pure magic. If its not for a full lunch, a MUST for a cake!!
Credit: Thomas Cubitt Pub
Credit: 34 Mayfair
Royal Albert Hall
Royal Albert Hall
EXPLORE
A walk through Covent Garden, a black cab ride, a West End show, a ride on the London Eye, or watching the Changing of the Guard — these may sound like London clichés, but they’re classics for a reason. Add in a few of the standout experiences below for a truly magical Christmas trip:
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Clive Steps, King Charles St, London SW1A 2AQ
+44 20 7930 6961
iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-roomsStep beneath the streets of Westminster into the hidden bunker where Winston Churchill and his inner circle directed WWII. Frozen in time, the War Rooms reveal the grit, urgency, and strategy behind Britain’s finest hour. A powerful journey into leadership under fire, and history at its most human.
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Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB
+44 20 3166 6000
hrp.org.uk/tower-of-londonFrom glittering crowns to ghost stories, the Tower is where British history gets bold. Marvel at the Crown Jewels, meet the legendary ravens, and walk the paths of kings, queens and traitors. With drama, mystery, and just the right amount of gore, it’s a thrilling day out for families and history lovers alike.
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Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
+44 20 7942 2000
vam.ac.ukFrom couture fashion to Renaissance sculpture, its vast and varied collections celebrate human creativity across centuries and continents. Housed in an architectural masterpiece, the V&A invites curious minds to explore the intersection of history, innovation, and aesthetic excellence. A cultural sanctuary for those who appreciate beauty with depth and meaning.
They usually have incredible visiting exhibitions so look out for what is there when you visit.
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Walk Through Centuries of Royal History
Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX
+44 20 3166 6000
hrp.org.uk/kensington-palaceIf you want to enter a palace that is still an active home to royals, and to walk the very floors and rooms that have witnessed some of the most intimate and significant moments in history, Kensington Palace is unparalleled. You can enter the exact room where one of the most famous queens in history was birthed and lived, Queen Victoria.
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London’s Legendary Stage of Glamour & Grandeur
Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP
+44 20 7589 8212
royalalberthall.comStep into a theatre of true spectacle, the Royal Albert Hall, where timeless elegance meets breathtaking performances. Under the iconic domed roof, immerse yourself in nights filled with soaring music, dazzling lights, and star-studded events. From classical masterpieces to chart-topping concerts, every show is a glamorous celebration of art and culture. Catch the Christmas Carols that will make listening to any other carols forthcoming incomparable!
FESTIVE ACTIVITES
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Kew, Richmond, London TW9 3AE
+44 20 8332 5655
kew.orgAs winter falls, Kew Gardens transforms into a magical world of twinkling lights and festive wonder. Perfect for families, little ones will delight in sparkling trails, glowing trees, and captivating light displays that bring the garden to life. For couples also, a truly romantic atmosphere! It’s a marvel to see the effort and creativity for the artistry and Christmas spirt.
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Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
winterwonderland.londonGet ready for non-stop fun at Winter Wonderland! Think sparkling lights, thrilling rides, ice skating, circus acts, and mouth-watering street food—all wrapped up in one magical holiday party. Advice, it gets busy, so to dodge the crowds aim to arrive early, around 5:30pm. Therefore, no queuing - straight in and enjoy!!
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Already mentioned in “new and on our radar” – a must! Very iconic, what better place to go for a Christmas market than the palace gardens itself!
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Claridge’s, Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR
+44 20 7493 8181
claridges.co.ukCelebrate the season with timeless elegance at Claridge’s renowned wreath-making workshop. Set in the heart of Mayfair, this hands-on experience invites you to create your own beautiful, bespoke Christmas wreath using the finest seasonal foliage and festive decorations. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a special way to get into the holiday spirit!
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Strand, London WC2R 1LA
+44 20 7845 4600
somersethouse.org.ukGlide beneath the stunning classical architecture of Somerset House, one of London’s most iconic winter experiences. The seasonal ice rink offers a perfect blend of festive charm and elegance, with music, twinkling lights, and a magical atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, Somerset is suitable for all, fun with friends, family, or couples.
Ice Skating at Somerset House
DAY TRIPS OR NIGHT AWAY FROM LONDON
Windsor Castle
Step into royal history with a visit to Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. Explore its magnificent state apartments, stunning grounds, and get a glimpse into the life of the British monarchy.
The Cotswolds
For a taste of timeless English charm, stay at Estelle Manor, a stunning, luxurious Old English manor that makes you feel like royalty. Think Downton Abbey glamour combined with impeccable service and attention to detail.
While in the area, don’t miss the UK’s first Restoration Hardware store — but this isn’t your typical RH. Housed in a converted English country home, it’s breathtakingly beautiful inside and out. Nearby, one of my favourite restaurants awaits: a sunlit orangery meticulously restored to showcase authentic 18th-century architecture. The food here is outstanding — fresh, local produce from nearby farms, with the best rotisserie chicken I’ve ever tasted. No fuss, just honest, delicious cuisine served in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
Also, a visit to the iconic and most breathtaking Palace in the UK – Blenheim Palace. They have their Christmas Lights Trail which is very romantic and also fun for families.
SHOPPING
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Mayfair
Stroll through one of London’s most elegant shopping streets, you’ll find flagship boutiques like the Dior and the iconic Ralph Lauren flagship in full Christmas spirt! The glittering impressive Christmas lights blend of tradition, glamour, and festive cheer. Whether you're shopping or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it's pure Mayfair magic.
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51 Piccadilly, London W1J 0QJ
burlingtonarcade.comJust off the glitzy New Bond Street is this very special Burlington Arcade where you feel you step back intime. London’s original luxury shopping gallery since 1819. Lined with antique jewellers, perfumers, and bespoke artisans, it offers a rare glimpse of old-world elegance. Patrolled by beadles in top hats, and full of magical festive charm.
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87–135 Brompton Road, London SW1X 7XL
harrods.comWhen winter arrives, the iconic Harrods transforms into the ultimate festive spectacle. Its famous Christmas window displays are legendary, bursting with imagination! Outside, the building sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights, turning Brompton Road into a fairy-tale boulevard. While inside, the magic continues with the enchanting Christmas Grotto, a wondrous escape where childhood dreams come alive, weather you’re a child or adult you can appreciate the grotto!
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181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER
fortnumandmason.comStep inside Fortnum & Mason and prepare to be dazzled for its lavish homeware décor and hampers packed with creative and traditional teas, chocolates, and bubbly, this iconic emporium turns Christmas into a deliciously decadent celebration.
Whether hunting for that perfect gift or indulging in seasonal treats, Fortnum’s is a wonderland of classic British charm and mouthwatering luxury.
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4th - 6th December
Mayfair Townhouse, 31 Brook St, London W1K 4HFDiscover an exclusive selection of the season’s most coveted boutique brands at Senses’ pop-up event. From avant-garde fashion labels to cutting-edge jewellery and lifestyle designers, this is the destination for luxury shoppers who crave the latest trends and passionate up and coming fashion designers and entrepreneurs. Elevate your own collection with pieces that define modern elegance and style! Or extraordinary and unique Christmas gifts for loved ones.
Harrods
Surrenne Belgravia
WELLNESS TIP
Surrenne Belgravia
Old Barrack Yard, London SW1X 7NP
+44 20 7862 5387
surrenne.com
Surrenne is a hidden wellness gem in the heart of Belgravia, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s pace. Spread across four beautifully designed floors, it features a stunning 22-meter pool, a fully equipped gym, and a traditional hammam to relax and recharge. With expert-led treatments and a focus on overall wellbeing, Surrenne creates a calm, luxurious space to unwind and rejuvenate. Intimate, peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a refined and restful retreat within London.
ON OUR RADAR
Crisp Pizza, Mayfair: Opening their new bigger sister restaurant in prime location is Crisp! London isn’t exactly famous for pizza… but, if you are looking for the best pizza in town — no exaggeration. Set inside a classic English pub, it’s the perfect mix of very casual, cosy and cool.
Buckingham Palace Christmas Market: For the first time ever, the Palace is opening its private gardens to host a Christmas market. A rare chance to stroll through royal grounds with mulled wine in hand? Yes, please.
Carbone London: New York’s cult Italian is landing in London, and the buzz is real. Expect old-school red sauce classics, big energy, and a crowd that knows how to dress. If you know, you know.
Carbone London
PLANNING SERVICES
Let Glimpse founder Jordan Rhodes help you plan your next vacation.
As an advisor independently affiliated with Brownell Travel, a luxury, Forbes endorsed, Virtuoso Agency, Jordan has a whole team helping plan her clients’ vacations.
