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The festive season is here and no one does Christmas like London town. People from all over the globe – including those of us in the Middle East – flock to this magnificent city to catch a glimpse of its holiday cheer. The atmosphere is ignited with a sense of festive magic, whether you’re taking a stroll by Soho and Oxford Street or buying year-end presents at Bond Street, the vibrant displays will surely get your attention.
By the end of this GRAZIA travel guide, we are almost certain you’ll be packing your bags to catch the earliest flight to London. So, make sure to add these spots to your notes app whilst you celebrate Christmas in London.
Places to stay in London
Corinthia Hotel
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Set in the heart of London, Corinthia is the place to stay when you arrive in the city. Enjoy the festive season at Corinthia with their range of delectable Festive Afternoon Tea to their mouthwatering Christmas Day dinner. They are also offering you the chance to enjoy a tranquil day at their spa, ESPA. If you think it can’t get any better than this, the hotel is near Trafalgar Square, St. James Park, Big Ben and many more attractions that are only a walk away.
For bookings or more information, click here.
The Carlton Tower Jumeirah
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Nestled in the luxe region of Knightsbridge, the Carlton Tower Jumeirah is just around the corner from the high-end department store, Harrods and Hyde Park. The hotel is making you an offer that you can’t resist. Upon arrival, you are greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne and special Festive Welcome Treats. You also have the opportunity to have preferential access to Santa’s Grotto by Anya Hindmarch. Enjoy carefully curated menu options for their Festive Italian Dining and their Festive Afternoon Tea. Offers that will make your stay in London worthwhile.
For bookings or more information, click here.
Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
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With stunning views that overlook the cityscapes as well as the famed Tower Bridge, the Four Seasons Hotel oozes luxury right at the entrance. Enjoy an extravagant night with your friends or family at the two Michelin-star French restaurant La Dame De Pic with their festive menu or at their Chinese and Japanese restaurant Mei Ume. You can also enjoy their ‘Sweetmas Afternoon Tea’ with their appetizing British pastries and drinks at Rotunda Bar and Lounge.
For bookings or more information, click here
Things to do
Winter Wonderland
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Winter Wonderland is a staple during the holiday season in London. With much to do here, they offer thrilling rides such as the Ice Mountain and the Euro Coaster exclusive shows like the Cirque Berserk and the Zippos Christmas Circus, countless food stalls with flavourful food and beverages and lastly Santaland, which has regular parades, kid-friendly rides and a Santa’s Grotto for you and your loved ones to visit.
For bookings or more information, click here
Somerset House
Christmas in London wouldn’t be complete without ice skating at Somerset House. Glide across the 900 square metre ice rink set in an impressive neoclassical courtyard, with a striking 40ft Christmas tree placed amidst it. This year the rink has opted for Swiss-themed décor in collaboration with Switzerland Tourism. Explore the new restaurant Chalet Suisse and a skate lounge by Whispering Angel, making this an Instagram-worthy blend of skating, Swiss culture and festive vibes.
For bookings or more information, click here
Nutcracker show
Catch this classical ballet’s captivating performance, which has managed to capture their audiences for 100 years. The enthralling performance by over 100 dancers and musicians will dazzle you as it features, Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy which will certainly leave you awestruck. Watch the rendition of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker by the English National Ballet at the London Coliseum this Christmas.
For bookings or more information, click here
Christmas Markets
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If London wasn’t lively enough with their markets, the festive season invokes a sense of holiday spirit in these markets. Whether it be the Covent Garden Christmas Village or Southbank Centre Winter Market. These spots will guarantee to lift your spirits for the festive season. With snow showers, an appetizing choice of food and beverages, and countless stalls you can shop from, you certainly would have an unforgettable time here.
Places to Eat
Bacchanalia
Enjoy breathtaking interiors as you dine at London’s most expensive restaurant. Taste tantalizing Greco-Roman delicacies and fine wines as you enjoy the festive season with your loved ones. The interior itself makes for a great conversation starter. If you looking to entertain a large crowd in private you can opt for their private dining room, Artemis.
For bookings or more information, click here
Jacuzzi
If you have been to any of the Big Mama restaurants you know their food, interiors and vibes are unforgettable. The chef has specially curated a delectable menu with mouth-watering Italian cuisines for the holiday season. From their Spaghetti Al Tartufo in the Wheel of Cheese to their classic Italian desserts like Tiramisu, you can’t help but feel spoilt with choices.
For bookings or more information, click here
Harrods Dining Hall
Using the historic and picturesque background as its setting the Dining Hall at Harrods will take you on a journey. The Dining Hall consists of six restaurants that guarantee you a gastronomy experience that you won’t forget. Whether you’re craving Japanese, Italian or British, the Dining Hall at Harrods has you covered. Let’s not forget the added live entertainment that comes with the side of your main course that will surely make your Christmas in London a time to remember.
For bookings or more information, click here
Ralph’S Coffee
Located on Bond Street, Ralph’s Coffee and Bar overlooks the stunning street décor as well as the Cartier showroom that is decked in all shades of Christmas colours. Take a quick break from all the sightseeing and shopping to stop for a quick cup of coffee at this designer café.
Gaia
This homegrown Dubai restaurant has made its way to London. Located in Mayfair, Greek-Mediterranean fine dining restaurant Gaia combines history and ambience to create the perfect atmosphere for you. Their fresh ingredients and traditional flavours aim to capture the essence of cuisine in its truest form. A tempting menu that offers you an authentic Greek experience in the heart of London.
For bookings or more information, click here
Places to shop
Harrods
Trips to London entail splurging on shopping and what better place to begin with than the iconic Harrods department store? Discover the ultimate shopping experience with Harrods this Christmas as you browse through their endless racks of designer goods, holiday décor and delicious Christmas food. An experience you can’t get online.
Selfridges
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Stop by Selfridges to buy yourself and your loved ones a special treat. Got a Christmas party to attend? The store has five floors full of the most fashionable clothes and accessories that you simply can’t resist. Take a shopping break and head on over to one of their restaurants that serve the most flavoursome delicacies. If shopping isn’t on your list then you can simply visit to have a look at their gorgeous Christmas décor that features Stella McCartney’s sustainable designs this year.
Regent Street
Despite the country’s cloudy demeanour, the city is brightly lit with these stunning decorations that you see flooding your Instagram and TikTok feeds every year. The pictures rarely do any justice to how they look in person. End your Christmas in London by walking through the most iconic street in town and maybe visit a few stores for some last-minute shopping. You can also hop on the Big Bus and get a tour of the Christmas lights displayed across the city.
Read More: What To Do In Dubai In December: The Festive Edition
