Lifestyle -- 1 day ago
Everyone’s favourite party season has arrived, as in December the winter gloves come off and the merriment begins. As busy as we all might be in the last dash to Christmas, we have put together our picks for the month to really get you into the spirit of fun. Whether you want to be transported to the Alps, a Bavarian village, a bejewelled champagne nook or some glitzy Christmas nostalgia, there is something for everyone. Let’s not forget the impending new year, so get booking and discover our pick of the best things to do in London this month…
The Delaunay Festive Alpine Takeover
This festive season, The Delaunay has taken it upon itself to bring the slopes to the heart of London’s theatreland, transforming the space into a stunning Alpine retreat. Transport yourself to a European winter escape without buying a plane ticket with their calendar of live music, Alpine-inspired Christmas decorations, and a new cocktail menu, Alpine Tales, inspired by the myths and folklore of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps. Embrace your inner whimsy with tipples such as the Mountain Nymph, made with Barsol pisco, Champagne and cardamom cordial, or the Alpenglow, mixed with No. 3 London Dry Gin, Cocchi Torino vermouth and pomegranate molasses. The merriment continues as guests can also enjoy a limited-edition festive afternoon tea from 6 December, featuring intricate cakes by Head Pastry Chef Regis Negrier.
Where? 55 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BB
Ralph's Coffee
Ralph Lauren has stepped up once again to present the wintry Ralph’s Coffee in our favourite Chelsea Square, offering an immersive holiday-themed pop-up kitted out with festive crafts, their classic gifting, a florist-in-residence and, of course, an outpost serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and hot dogs. Like something out of a movie set, the twinkling lights and alpine theme provide the perfect dose of festive cheer ahead of our inevitable spree down the King’s Road. In residence for six weeks, it is not only the ideal Christmas backdrop, but 10 percent of proceeds from all activities will also benefit The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
When? Until December 24th
Where? Sloane Square
Veuve Clicquot X The British Pullman
Trains really are the only way to travel, and we can't think of a better way to do it than on a Belmond train aboard the British Pullman. Veuve Clicquot is capturing the magic of Christmas on the railway with a seasonal five-course lunch experience running from 14 November to 21 December, departing from and returning to London Victoria Station. Raise a glass to the festive season with your nearest and dearest while travelling in pure style through the British countryside this winter. Guests will enjoy a Champagne reception courtesy of Veuve Clicquot, followed by a British table d’hôte five-course seasonal menu paired with wines chosen by the British Pullman’s renowned sommelier. The main course is accompanied by a special Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2018 pairing, with coffee, tea, and petit fours served before your fond farewell to this magical journey.
When? 14 November - 21 December
Where? Departure from London Victoria Station
How much? From £595 per passenger
Dovetale’s Winter Village
Looking for a Christmas grotto to quench your thirst and quell your hunger? Look no further than the 1 Hotel Mayfair’s Dovetale terrace and courtyard, which has transformed into a picture-perfect Winter Village in the heart of Mayfair. This year, they have partnered with Maker’s Mark, Guinness, and Puffy Cookies to create the ultimate winter haven. In the four woodland huts, you will find Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky serving Spiced Cider and Mulled Wine; the nation’s favourite, Guinness, pouring draught pints and offering drinkers the chance to have pictures printed on top; the Puffy Hut, serving cookies from the renowned Parisian brand, including their festive Pumpkin Spice Caramel Pecan special; and finally, the Bavarian grotto, home to a Big Green Egg and serving up endless bratwurst and pretzels.
Where? 1 Dover Yard at 1 Hotel Mayfair, London, W1J 8DJ
Santa Claws at J. Sheekey
A touch of mischief has crept into Covent Garden with the Santa Claws takeover of J. Sheekey this Christmas. Expect tangled lights, the odd runaway bauble and a few shifty-looking lobsters lurking about. Visit this iconic seafood restaurant to celebrate the season with sparkle and festive cheer, all while keeping an eye out for those cheeky lobster claws. For the season of entertaining, J. Sheekey has partnered with Perrier-Jouët, one of France’s most historic Champagne houses. It is the perfect time to indulge in something truly special, with a curated selection of Grand Brut N.V., Blason Rosé N.V., Blanc de Blancs N.V. and Belle Époque 2014 available by the glass or bottle. Pair your bubbles with their Festive Set Menu, featuring favourites such as the Twice-Baked Cheddar Soufflé and their signature Prawn Cocktail, along with new seasonal additions like a Gingerbread Ice Cream Coupe with clementines or a Christmas Pudding Soufflé. For an evening of seafood, sparkle and a little playful mischief, join Santa Claws in town and visit J. Sheekey.
When? Until 4th of January
Where? 28-32 St Martin's Ct, London WC2N 4AL
The Ned's Christmas Tree with The Macallan
A Christmas tree tells you a lot about a person, and The Ned’s collaboration with The Macallan for their inaugural collaborative Christmas tree is a spectacular symbol of heritage, craftsmanship, and seasonal celebration. Unveiled in The Ned’s grand banking hall, this exclusive installation is inspired by The Macallan’s rich Scotch whisky heritage and the natural beauty of Speyside. Designed in partnership with Grandirosa, the impressive 22ft tree draws upon the warmth and character of the distillery, transporting you to the Highlands without leaving the heart of the city. Adorned in The Macallan’s signature red, the tree is dressed with copper baubles that echo the distillery’s copper stills, and guests can enjoy bespoke whisky experiences throughout the season as they admire it.
When? 24 November – 27 December 2025
Where? The Ned, 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ
Tower House, Richmond
This December, there is a new neighbour on the Richmond riverside. Taking over a mid-19th-century clock tower, Tower House is the latest modern Mediterranean opening from the team behind Gold Notting Hill, offering a contemporary riverside restaurant and bar with an ethos rooted in warmth and relaxed intimacy. Seasonality and simplicity are its defining traits, with reimagined dishes ranging from chargrilled vegetables to hand-rolled parcels of silky pasta to wood-roasted whole turbot. Outside, the beauty of the borough is elevated by the Riverside Garden, which offers sweeping views of a tree-lined curve of the River Thames. It is perfectly situated for a post-lunch park walk to unwind and digest the delights.
When? From 1st December
Where? 11 Bridge St, Richmond TW9 1TQ
The Jewel of the Season with De Beers London
London is home to a fantastic twinkling display of Christmas lights, but nothing quite stops you in your tracks like the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. It has all the glitz and glamour on the outside, but inside you will also find their festive partnership with De Beers London, the embodiment of sparkle. Taking over the hotel’s lobby, The Enchanted Lotus Bar is an immersive celebration of artistry, heritage, and craftsmanship. The Champagne and caviar bar draws its inspiration from the lotus flower, a signature motif of the De Beers Enchanted Lotus collection, and is serving exceptional Champagnes including Ruinart, Krug, and Dom Pérignon, all paired with King’s Caviar, of course. It is the ultimate luxury we all deserve in the sparkliest of seasons.
Where? 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA
Scarlet Season at Scott's Mayfair
Everyone’s favourite Mount Street establishment has done it once again, as Scott’s Mayfair has adorned itself in crimson and baubles for its festive edition. This year they have partnered with Nyetimber and The Lakes Distillery for an extra-special season of service. The soft glow of candlelight can be enjoyed alongside grilled lobster or mixed roasted shellfish paired with 1086 by Nyetimber Rosé, and fresh oysters accompanied by Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs. This year Nyetimber won Champion Sparkling Wine at the International Wine Challenge, and Scott’s is doing all it can to celebrate this victory, with guests even able to sign off the meal with the Nyetimber Twinkle Sorbet. While there, why not dabble in a Santa’s Remedy featuring The Lakes Signature Single Malt, and enjoy all the indulgences Scott’s has to offer.
Where? 20 Mount Street, London, W1K 2HE
Miracle at Henrietta
With gorgeous traditional Christmas decorations on every corner in London, the inner Christmas child in us might still feel that something is missing, as it simply isn’t the holidays without a touch of kitschy magic. Enter Experimental, the French-born contemporary hospitality group, who is delighted to announce the return of Miracle, the much-loved festive pop-up bar from the U.S. that embodies all things bright, retro and loud. Now in its eighth London instalment, guests can step into a festive wonderland filled with nostalgic ornaments, candy canes, fairy lights and copious amounts of glittering tinsel. Put your senses into overdrive in all the best ways and enjoy playful servings of the Snowball Old-Fashioned, Christmasaurus and the Christmapolitan, all presented in their whimsical glassware with a flourish of glitter and garnish.
Where? 10 Henrietta Street, London WC2E 8PS
Miracle at Henrietta
Casa Felicia Queen's Park
New to the North-West London gastronomy scene is the charming and elevated trattoria, Casa Felicia. A cosy and immediately welcoming atmosphere greets diners before two hours of energetic Italian hospitality unfold. The cocktail menu is extensive (with Campari playing a starring role), and Head Chef Francesco Sarvonio’s Naples-inspired dishes - a hearty mix of individual and sharing plates - offer tastebuds a fleeting but delicious escape to Southern Italy. The menu champions traditionally made pasta (just semola and water) and standout features include Felicia’s Lasagna (made from Sarvonio’s Nonna’s recipe), Linguine alla Nerano and Ziti alla Genovese. A generous parting shot of Vecchio Amaro del Capo is all but mandatory, making Casa Felicia a must-visit for those seeking a local yet special dining experience.
Where? 79 Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NH
New Years at Dove
New Year’s can be a stressful time of year, whether you are scrambling to find a table at an overpriced bar or desperately trying to sneak a glimpse of London’s fireworks. That is why our pick would be an intimate restaurant with fine food and excellent company to ring in the new year. This December 31, the acclaimed Dove in Notting Hill is hosting its first New Year’s Eve feast, showcasing the beauty of seasonal British produce. Jackson Boxer’s Dove is the reinvention of the award-winning Orasay, and the four-course celebration includes highlights such as Isle of Mull scallops, Cornish crab and a flourless chocolate cake, along with an array of special pours exclusively for the night. Enjoy New Year’s in the elevated fashion it deserves and start your year right.
Where? 31 Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2EU
Can't get enough of what London has to offer? Get to know this iconic London neighbourhood...
