Do you want to experience London in all its festive glory? The capital is currently gearing into full festive mode with plenty of things to see and do, from beautiful Christmas markets to fabulous festive shopping.
Christmas Shopping
Christmas shopping in London is undoubtedly some of the best in the world. You will find a huge range of some of the largest department stores selling a huge array of very unique christmas gifts and decorations. Our favourites, hands down, are Liberty of London and Selfridges. Exit the tube at Bond Street for a dedicated christmas shopping experience.
Liberty’s Christmas hall is extraordinary and is the place to go to get your Christmas on. Selfridges is also a great place for some luxury shopping, with some of the best brands showcased in suitably glossy surroundings. After, head down to Oxford street and Regents street where you will find excellent apparel shopping at the flagship stores of the likes of H&M, Topshop and Forever21.
Festive Food
Ready to refuel and recharge? Head on over to the vibrant St Christopher’s Place, just off Barrett Street where you will find a huge range of affordable cuisine from around the world. There is so much to choose from but one of our favourites has to be Ping Pong which serves really great Dim Sum in sumptuously dark surroundings. The set menus are great value, serving all the classics from mixed vegetable rolls to delicious chicken and garlic dumplings. The set menus start at £9.50 per person and can be taken as a healthy mix or great vegetarian version.
Alternatively, for a very special treat, book for an extravagant afternoon tea at one of London’s luxury restaurants or hotels such as the Ritz or the Savoy. Pricey yes but a very special festive treat.
Getting your Xmas On
A very short bus or tube ride away is Hyde Park’s supremely festive Winter Wonderland Christmas extravaganza. Here you can browse countless wooden chalets for Christmas decorations, gifts, sip mulled wine, enjoy freshly prepared German sausage and even go for a skate on the ice rink. This is a perfect day out for families, with several child friendly rides, the highlight of which being the observation wheel where you will be able to enjoy truly breathtaking views over the Park and beyond.
Something for the Evening
We would suggest heading to Covent Garden for the evening. This time of year you will find the beautiful Victorian Plaza lit up along with an impressive twinkling Christmas tree right in the centre. Covent Garden is a great place for unique and interesting shopping; make sure you do not miss the absolutely adorable Moomins shop. You will also find great food at affordable prices. Our absolute favourite place for dinner is Dishoom, which serves absolutely delicious canteen-style Indian food from Bombay.
Later, why not head over to the frenetic Trafalgar Square, where you can cosy up with a hot drink and listen to classic carols during December. Here you will also find the world-famous Christmas tree- an annual gift from Norway since the end of the Second World War.
Lastly, for a very special Christmas treat, we suggest seeing one of the world-class ballets at the Royal Opera House or London Coliseum. This year both feature the spellbinding Nutcracker.
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