Perhaps I’ve seen Love Actually and the Holiday a few too many times, but to me, London is the ideal place to visit during the festive season.  

From late November to early January, London is decked out in elaborate lights, trees, and window displays perfect for getting you in the Christmas spirit!  

Here are 10 festive things to do and experience in London this winter: 

1. Check out the Christmas lights

I’d hate to see London’s electric bill in December! Pick your favorite neighborhood and go for an evening walk. The displays on Regent, Oxford, and Carnaby are highlights each year.

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2. Enjoy festive tea 

High tea is a bucket list item for any London vacation, so why not experience it at Christmas? Most locations offer a festive tea, complete with themed pastries. Try the Ritz for the classic experience and the Chesterfield for a more family-friendly experience. Pictured below are the Langham and the famous Sketch bathrooms, dressed in their Christmas best.

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3. Go tree hopping

London’s hotels take their Christmas trees very seriously. Decorated to perfection, let a London hotel tree serve as the backdrop for your family Christmas card this year. Claridges in particular is an annual treat. They have a new guest artist each year with recent trees designed by Karl Lagerfield, Dianne Von Furstenburg, Christian Louboutin, and Dior.

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4. Have a pint at the Churchill Arms in Notting Hill

A cold pint in a warm pub just tastes better in winter! For a festive location, try the Churchill Arms pub in Notting Hill. Typically covered in seasonal florals, the pub is decked out head to tow in Christmas trees during winter. Explore the Portobello Road winter festival when you’re done.

5. Stop by Cartier on New Bond Street

Whether you’re buying a love bracelet or taking a selfie for Instagram, this store is worth a visit. It’s always beautifully decorated with a red bow (in case anyone needs reminding that Cartier is ALWAYS the perfect gift) and the classic red phone booth out front makes it the perfect photo spot. If you enjoy luxury shopping, plan to spend at least an hour or two on New Bond Street checking off your Christmas shopping list!  

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6. Take a photo at Anabelle’s in Mayfair

Since this is a members-only club, you’re not getting inside unless you’re a member or a member’s guest. However, the exterior alone is worth dropping by to check out. Anabelles holiday decorations are over the top and differ each year.

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7. Have dinner in Covent Garden

Have dinner or go shopping in this beautifully decorated area of town. Explore the Covent Garden Christmas market and their giant Christmas tree.

8. Treat yourself at Peggy Porschen

Enjoy something sweet at London’s most Instagramable bakery.

9. Take a day trip (or longer) to the Cotswalds

If you share my previously mentioned obsession with the movie the Holiday, rent a car, drive to the Cotswolds, and live out all your cinematic dreams. The Cotwolds is a charming part of the UK not far outside of London that has been designated as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”. There are many Cotswolds towns to explore. Here are a couple of recommendations: Castle Combe, Upper & Lower Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water.

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10. Drink mulled wine in Hyde Park

From November to early January, Hyde Park is the home of London’s Christmas market and Winter Wonderland. Fun for the family with carnival-style rides and games.   

Comment Below!

These are only 10 of the many fun things to do in London during Christmas. Comment below with your recommendations for enjoying London during the festive season!

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