Christmas in London

Begin your day with a festive breakfast or brunch at Covent Garden’s Balthazar, an iconic venue that evokes the spirit of a classic French Brasserie with a menu of decadent egg dishes, buttery pastries, and signature almond waffles. Despite its grand location in the historic Flower Cellars building, imposing dimensions, and famously eye-catching decorations, this stylish dining destination offers a laid-back luxury approach to the most important meal of the day, making it the ideal prelude to a day that's as jam-packed as richly satisfying as the plate of croissants in front of you.

Following breakfast, you'll find yourself in the heart of London's famous Covent Garden Market: a realm of Christmassy opulence. The air is filled with seasonal allure, and festive exuberance seeps into every nook and cranny between the numerous stalls, shops, and cafes. Peruse the market's wares to pick up a trinket or two, or simply grab yourself a cinnamon-spiced hot drink and admire the dazzling decorations that twinkle all around you. Heading into the main market square, you'll be equally dazzled by the selection of talented street performers that encircle the towering Christmas tree. If you didn't get your fill of fancy French patisserie, neighbouring Ladurée is famed for its pretty macaron delicacies straight from the rues of Paris (and offers fabulous gift boxes for those 'hard to buy for' people on your list).

You'll be positioned right in the middle of London's festive spectacular, so the options for how to spend the first part of the afternoon are varied. Any little ones in your party will surely love to spend a moment or two with Santa, and this year, The Ritz is offering perhaps the chicest way to do just that. Shake hands with the big man himself on an immersive 'Journey Through Christmas' at this gorgeous London landmark. Otherwise, why not stop by Carnaby Street to pick out a gift (or something for yourself, we're not here to judge) from one of its many under-cool shops? Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is also right around the corner and offers something for the whole gang to enjoy, including enough festive fare to put your belt buckle to the test.

If you have time, take the short detour to view another mesmerising Christmas display — this time courtesy of food-lovers' paradise Fortnum and Mason. Step through the bauble-adorned doorway into an otherworldly wonderland of Christmas whimsy. Resist the temptation (or don't!) to splurge on some of the countless treasure troves of tastebud-tingling delights that fill the main shopping galleries as you make for the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon: the timelessly elegant home of a famed London afternoon tea experience. After stopping in for a winter warmer, continue on to Bond Street, where more ultra-luxe shopping awaits. 

One of the most enchanting things about London at Christmas time is the constellation of lights which illuminate streets both big and small — and the best way to appreciate them truly is simply by strolling around on foot. Embark on a luminous journey through the heart of some of the capital's most emblematic sights, starting from the enchanting Covent Garden. Weave a path from Leicester Square to Piccadilly, perhaps passing through either Hyde Park or St. James's Park to take in the inimitable atmosphere of London's green spaces in winter before winding your way toward the iconic glow of the Harrods shopfront at Christmas: a world-renowned spectacle that heralds the start of the festive season in the minds of many Londoners.

Immerse yourself in the quintessence of Christmas magic with a must-do ice-skating experience at the Natural History Museum. Beneath the majestic facade, the rink offers a dreamlike setting for winter revelry. Glide under the stars, surrounded by the museum's glorious Gothic splendour, as the festive lights cast a shimmering glow upon the ice. It's not merely ice skating; it's a dance on ice in the heart of London, where the historic charm converges with seasonal enchantment against a spellbinding backdrop. A cherished yuletide tradition, this experience at the Natural History Museum is a quintessential celebration, capturing the spirit of Christmas in every graceful twirl and joyful moment.

Following an hour or two on the ice, rehydrate with a frosty pint or a glass of something cool at the ever-popular Churchill Arms in Kensington while warming your chilled chestnuts in its cosy environs. This traditional pub is an old-school Christmas cracker that, thanks to its upmarket location and reputation for great service, remains a favourite among Londoners looking for a no-fuss tipple. It really comes into its own at Christmas, however, and is widely regarded as one of the capital's most festive watering holes (You need only to take a look at the outside to see why). Alternatively, for something swankier, The Fumoir at Claridge's transports you back to the 1930s, providing the perfect space to sip first-rate cocktails in opulent surroundings.

A festive meal at Scott's on Mount Street isn't just dining; it's a quintessential London experience. This institution epitomises British fine dining, making it a Christmas must-do for the discerning palette. Opt for the heated outdoor terrace, a front-row seat to city elegance, relishing fresh oysters or the famed seafood platters, or head inside to the private rooms that offer an intimate setting where every Christmas wish is fulfilled. Scott's weaves culinary excellence with seasonal splendour, ensuring your holiday celebration reaches the pinnacle of sophistication, making it an unforgettable highlight in the heart of London. Opt for an earlier meal if you plan on following dinner with a show.

London is of course known the world over for its stellar offering of shows and first-rate productions. At Christmas time in particular, the stage comes alive with festive tales, heartwarming classics, and dazzling performances. If travelling with children, opt for a family-friendly show such as The Lion King, Frozen and Elf - back by demand for the festive season. Or, for something more grown-up, why not get into the spirit of things at some of the capital's salubrious cabaret clubs? Your cheeks will soon be blushing like Rudolph's nose.

For those not quite ready to call it a night, The Connaught Bar in well-heeled Mayfair is a candle-lit establishment that consistently makes it into shortlists of the 'Best Bars in the World'. It's perfect for late-night cocktails, with expert mixologists ready to shake up your evening and add a touch of festive revelry to proceedings. Sample the Nocciola from their 'of the moment' menu that champions the flavours of Christmas, or just enjoy your favourite timeless classics done to perfection. If you're after cocktail artistry, you'll find it here.

After all that, you'll be ready for a silent (and exceedingly comfortable) night spent at the stylish Corinthia Hotel, where you'll find sumptuous interiors, tranquil terraces, and spectacular city views.

Our Personal Travel Manager, Dean, enjoyed a festive stay at this London icon: “My wife and I enjoyed a special evening for two here. It got us in the festive spirit with a huge tree in the main lobby and everywhere was decorated so stylishly. They even had a singer and guitarist belting out Christmas classics, creating a wonderful atmosphere.”