Christmas in London: A Round-Up

Lifestyle

Press pause on mulled wine and mince pies and venture outside to see what London has to offer this Christmas

It’s the final curtain call for 2024 and the holiday season is officially in full swing. Twinkling lights, wintery windows, and Christmas markets galore. Whether you’re spending time with loved ones or preparing for a whirlwind of occasions, we’ve rounded up our favourite activities with festive appeal.

Annual favourites include ice skating at Somerset House and the capital’s endless list of Christmas markets. These are ones not to miss.

Christmas Markets

Over the coming month, locals and tourists alike are spoiled for choice between the endless list of Christmas markets in London. Mouth-watering food, pop-up bars and stands full-to-the-brim with festive delights. Favourites include Covent Garden (note the twinkling 60ft tree), Spitalfields Market, and the Southbank Winter market – officially running for its 10th year. Grab a mulled wine and amble round the stalls to find your last-minute gift additions.

Drinks & Dining

Never one to do things by half, London’s best bars and restaurants go all out for the festive season. Just a stroll from Oxford Street, The Nest in The Treehouse combines seasonal bar bites and cocktails with 360-degree skyline views. Sunday in Brooklyn returns with its wintery pop-up bar, while Mayfair’s Sketch makes dining an otherworldly affair – think intricate artwork and giant gingerbread houses. Julie’s in Notting Hill has a year-round cosy feel, or for more casual occasions, stop by the capital’s ultimate pop-up, Fire & Fromage on the South Bank.

Arts & Culture

Nothing says Christmas quite like a dose of culture. Head to The Royal Ballet for favoured classics brought to life, from The Nutcracker to Cinderella. The season isn’t complete without carols at the Royal Albert Hall, or indulge in guilty pleasures with Eventim Apollo’s orchestral screening of Love Actually. The capital’s museums are getting in the spirit too. Take part in Yuletide activities at The Natural History Museum; explore festive fossils soundtracked by a harpist, or say hello to the animatronic T Rex, all kitted out in its Christmas jumper.

Ice skating

‘Tis the season for ice skating rinks aplenty. The neoclassical courtyard of Somerset House allows skating well into the night to sets from resident DJs. Après skate? Opt for the three-course Alpine-inspired feast or rink-side drinks courtesy of Whispering Angel. Looking to twirl on the ice post-present-shopping? There’s the Moana-themed ice rink at Westfield or take in views of the Thames from three-interconnecting rinks at Battersea Power Station.

Seasonal Guest Services

Whether it’s setting the scene with showstopping décor or sourcing a private chef, our guest services team can sort it. We’ll curate bespoke experiences for the season, from classic Christmas dinners to visits from Santa himself. Whatever you need to make your stay special.