Spending Christmas in London is an experience everyone should have at least once. The city comes alive with festive cheer, Christmas lights, decorations and bustling Christmas markets. During the holiday season London transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering something for everyone—whether it’s marveling at iconic landmarks dressed in holiday splendor, shopping at world-famous department stores, or enjoying seasonal treats. This post is your guide to making the most of a Christmas trip to London, filled with tips and inspiration for an unforgettable festive adventure!
Sometimes, unexpected changes can lead to the most memorable experiences. My dad and I had a connecting flight canceled, and instead of letting it dampen our spirits, we decided to make the absolute best of the situation by exploring London during the Christmas season. And let me tell you, London at Christmas is something truly special!
From Christmas lights and festive decorations to charming afternoon tea spots that embrace the holiday spirit, this post has everything you need to make your own festive trip to London unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for tips on must-see attractions, magical locations for Christmas decor, or the best places to enjoy afternoon tea during the festive season, I’ve got you covered!
Staying at Eccleston Square Hotel in London
We chose the Eccleston Square Hotel in Bavaria for its digital-friendly amenities and convenient location near Victoria Station, perfect for our return trip to Gatwick Airport. The hotel impressed us with its modern touches—heated toilet seats, TVs in the bathroom mirrors, and incredibly comfortable Hästens beds that felt like a dream after a long travel day. If you’re looking for a mix of comfort and practicality, this is a good choice.
Breakfast at Peggy Porschen Bakery in London
Our day started with a short 5-minute walk to Peggy Porschen Bakery. Arriving at 9:00 AM just as they opened, we were lucky to secure a table without a reservation. This pink wonderland—complete with whimsical Christmas decorations featuring pink trees—is an Instagram dream. I enjoyed eggs Benedict with a matcha latte, while my dad opted for avocado toast and tea. By the time we left, every table inside and out was full. Peggy Porschen also offers afternoon tea and an array of delicious pastries, making it a must-visit.
A Stop at Biscuiteers London
Next, we visited Biscuiteers Cake Boutique, also in Bavaria. This charming spot offers gingerbread decoration sessions—something I would have loved to try if we had more time. I picked up some beautifully decorated cakes to take home and admired their creative displays, including a Bridgerton-inspired gingerbread house featuring some of the characters. It’s a fun and festive stop for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Exploring Covent Garden During Christmas
We then took the underground to Covent Garden, where we spent about 1.5 hours soaking in the festive atmosphere. The Apple Market was bustling with unique finds, and the Christmas decorations were stunning. We marveled at the giant Christmas tree, the clocks and bows adorning the ceiling, and even sat in Santa’s sleigh. Covent Garden is a perfect blend of tradition and holiday cheer.
Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London
No trip to London is complete without afternoon tea, and we were lucky to secure a last-minute reservation at the Rosewood London Hotel. The entrance was breathtaking, setting the tone for what was to come. The festive tea, inspired by John Booth’s collection, was a feast for the senses. We enjoyed sandwiches like truffle and blue cheese tart, the fluffiest scones with clotted cream and jam, and pastries designed like works of art—a pear, a bauble, and a Christmas tree.
The tea selection was another highlight. We sampled seven varieties and fell in love with the truffle & pistachio tea. For those who want to elevate the experience further, tea pairings are also available. Don’t leave without taking a moment to admire the stunning Mirror Room—it’s as beautiful as the treats themselves.
Bond Street and Mayfair Christmas Decorations
After our indulgent afternoon tea, we walked through Bond Street and Mayfair, making stops at festive spots like Annabel’s, Neill Strain floral couture, Koyn and admiring the stunning holiday displays. The gingerbread houses and illuminated streets were simply magical.
Oxford Street Christmas Lights and Regent Street Angels
We ended our day marveling at the Oxford Street Christmas star lights and the Regent Street angel displays. These iconic decorations are a must-see during the holiday season and were the perfect way to wrap up our city adventure before heading to the airport.
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Tips for Your Festive London Stopover
If you find yourself in London during Christmas, here are a few additional recommendations:
Big Ben and Tower Bridge: Iconic landmarks that are even more magical during the holidays.
Selfridges and Harrods: Perfect for Christmas shopping and admiring their extravagant window displays.
- Winter Wonderland: During Christmas, Hyde Park transforms into Winter Wonderland, London’s festive hub with lights, rides, markets, ice skating, and holiday magic!
Book Early: Many afternoon teas sell out quickly during the festive season.
London’s charm during Christmas is unmatched, and this spontaneous trip with my dad turned into an unforgettable adventure. I hope our itinerary inspires you to explore this beautiful city during the most wonderful time of the year!
Any questions about Christmas in London? Let me know in the comments below!
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