London conjures up the magic of Christmas like few other cities, with all manner of memorable events and destinations for all ages. Discover our pick of this year’s finest…

The Home of Christmas

Few places do Christmas better than Fortnum & Mason; a master of enchanting festive experiences since Victorian times. Indeed, Charles Dickens described it as ‘a perfect fairy palace’ in December 1845. They supplied woodcock pies to Edward VII and George V at Christmas for many years and the Queen Mother would insist on wrapping her own presents in the store. Its fairytale window displays and festive demonstrations, masterclasses and performances continue to captivate this season.

Theatrical Delights

The English National Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker at London Coliseum has also become a much-loved tradition since first delighting audiences in 1950. Set to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score, this year’s production is a new re-telling of the classic, brought to life by over 100 dancers and musicians.

Elsewhere, The Royal Opera House stages an enchanting production of Cinderella; a co-production between The Royal Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. While the Royal Albert Hall’s programme of festive events includes performances by Jamie Cullum, Katherine Jenkins, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and London Community Gospel Choir, as well their much-loved sing-along carols.

A Touch of Luxury

Claridge’s spectacular Christmas tree becomes a Mayfair landmark each winter. Since it was designed by John Galliano for Dior in 2009, it has become tradition that each year it is brought to life by a different eminent designer. This year, the 19ft tree is the creation of Sir Paul Smith who has filled its branches with 100 bespoke birdhouses, each with a playful twist in his signature style.

London’s hotels – from The Corinthia to The Ned – are hosting all manner of festive afternoon teas to mark the season. We recommend a visit to Harrods stalwart The Georgian, where you can enjoy an exquisite menu overseen by executive pastry chef Markus Bohr. It’s also an opportunity to admire the recent extensive refurbishment and restoration of this grand, historic venue – which first opened within the department store to much fanfare in 1911.

Time for Reflection

Nearby Grosvenor Square hosts Anya Hindmarch’s spectacular Ever After Garden which is open until mid-December. This incredible carpet of over 30,000 illuminated white roses first lit up the square in 2019 in memory of the late production designer Michael Howells. It has since served as an annual garden of remembrance in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and visitors are encouraged to dedicate a rose in exchange for a charity donation.

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