Arguably the most highly-anticipated month in London, December brings an air of excitement that the rest of the year simply can’t rival.
There is nothing quite like London at Christmas. The streets burst to life with a twinkling array of lights, hot drinks are enjoyed in the cool night air and stores are abuzz with the excited energy of eager shoppers.
With December just around the corner, and with it, the promise of festive cheer, delicious delicacies, and of course, an impressive line up of events which bring everyone together.
From cookie decorating classes to igloo-themed experiences by the water, there are no shortage of activities for the family to indulge in this holiday season.
Discover our pick of the best Christmas events in London this year to get you in the festive spirit below.
Miracle Bar at Henrietta Hotel
For a truly magical Christmas experience, Henrietta Hotel has opened the doors to Miracle Bar - a winter wonderland in the heart of London's Covent Garden. With tinsel and twinkling lights descending from the ceiling, delicious festive-themed cocktails and a whimsy sense of holiday-themed spirit, a visit must be paid for anyone looking for a hard-hitting dose of Christmas charm.
Book here or walk in and wait to be seated, pending availability.
Liberty x The Langham
The Langham hotel has been touched by the Liberty Christmas elves, with festive charm flooding its famed hallways. Throughout November and December, The Langham, in collaboration with Liberty London, will be hosting a series of workshops and delicious food and drink offerings to get guests in the festive spirit. Book in for a sumptuous afternoon tea (£95pp), attend a wreath and cookie making class (£189pp) or enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner experience at The Wigmore.
Hampton Court Taylor's Port Pop-Up
Hampton Court's charming boutique hotel The Mitre has launched a pop-up collaboration with Taylor's Port. Guests will feel an immediate sense of warmth, enveloped by twinkling lights and roaring fires, before settling in with a glass of port, paired with some of The Mitre’s most classic fare. For something a little more experimental, try your hand at one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, including a a Porto Negroni and LBV Martini. Boasting the largest vintage post list in London, lovers of the tipple will be absolutely spoiled for choice.
Sky Garden x Moët & Chandon
Boasting 360 degree views of London’s iconic city skyline, Sky Garden is the perfect location for a little festive cheer . Collaborating with Moët & Chandon, the venue’s Sky Pod Bar will be decorated with frosted trees and twinkling lights, blending in perfectly with the surrounding foliage. Sip on one of the bespoke cocktails of the season including the Velvet Elixir, Berry Sour and Fireside Royale.
Alpine Igloos at The Sipping Room by Drake & Morgan x Grey Goose
Dotted along the water at Canary Wharf lies a winter wonderland, courtesy of The Sipping Room by Drake & Morgan. Inside three igloos overlooking the water, diners can enjoy a magical food and drink experience, complete with limited-edition Grey Goose cocktails.
Claridge’s has long been synonymous with the holiday period, delighting visitors with its annual Christmas tree installation. Each year, a different designer is invited to curate the tree, with Louis Vuitton invited to collaborate for 2023.
Inspired by the art of travel, a theme which inspires both the fashion house and the hotel, it is sure to be a spectacle not to miss. Claridge’s is also offering a Christmas special throughout the festive period, which includes a bottle of Champagne, visit from Father Christmas and a picturesque ride in a horse-drawn carriage.
Open until the end of December, Pergola Paddington will play host to a series of holiday-themed eventsincluding: Christmas sing-alongs, candlelit gospel choir performances, winter bottomless brunches, and festive movie screenings. The upper deck has transformed into a wintry forest (complete with a life size polar express train), with the lower level becoming an alpine oasis, serving a series of winter warmers such as mulled wine, alcoholic hot chocolates and cheese fondue.
From 22 November- 2 December in Holland Park, shoppers looking for unique, handmade presents can attend the Curator&Maker Christmas pop up experience for all their gifting needs. Displaying limited-edition products shoppers can expect to browse handmade glass-blown baubles, hand-knitted jumpers and ceramics with something to suit every present budget. Works have been created by 14 talented taste makers across the UK, so there’s no better place to shop local this festive season.
Hamleys
From 6-10 December between 8am-8pm, Hamleys Regent Street store will see it's Christmas Grotto come to life. The annual experience is always a crowd-pleaser for families, with the opportunity to meet Father Christmas proving too magical to miss .
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