The festive season has well and truly begun in the capital, and Christmas lights are illuminating London’s world-famous landmarks once again. However, some of the city’s most merry neighbourhoods are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street and Covent Garden. Here are some of our favourite places for the perfect Christmas day out.
Hampstead
Known for its cobbled streets and Victorian cottages, this pocket of London is steeped in history and was the setting for the BBC’s 2019 adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The grand green space of Hampstead Heath is perfect for a winter stroll, and popular coffee shop The Nook is just moments from the edge of the park. Their indulgent hot chocolate will satisfy even the sweetest tooth, and frozen fingers will be grateful for the warming treat. If you’ve worked up more of an appetite, head to The Roebuck, a traditional country pub with roaring fireplaces and a charming garden. Renowned for their delectable Sunday roast, the highlight of their Christmas menu is their selection of sharing boards.
For some festive retail therapy, explore the boutiques and gift shops dotted along Hampstead High Street. Daunt Books feels especially inviting in December, with tables stacked with seasonal reads and staff recommendations that make it easy to pick out a thoughtful gift. Lulu’s Flowers offers handmade wreaths and poinsettia arrangements, and the irresistible scent of mince pies from Karma Bakery can be smelt from streets away. As the afternoon slips into evening and the high street’s fairy lights begin to sparkle, pay a visit to Neverland at Kenwood, a magical outdoor light trail based on the story of Peter Pan.
Image above: Neverland at Kenwood House |
Image above: Christmas at Kew |
Chiswick
Set along a peaceful stretch of the River Thames, this area is perfect for those seeking a countryside experience close to the heart of the capital. Chiswick High Road offers an array of independent shops to browse, with highlights including The Chiswick Gift Company for thoughtful presents and The Old Cinema for one-of-a-kind antiques. When you’ve had your fill of shopping, head to The Hound, a cosy gastropub nestled within the walls of a historic Victorian police station. After a sumptuous roast, set off on a scenic riverside walk along one of the prettiest sections of the Thames Path, stopping off to admire the picture-perfect houses and read the blue plaques commemorating famous former residents.
If you’ve ever imagined spending Christmas in a stately home, visit the immersive Twelfth Night of Christmas experience at Chiswick House. The historic residence has been transformed into a series of live tableaux of a Georgian yuletide banquet, with each scene inspired by a verse of the classic carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas”. A trip to the Grotto is sure to captivate younger visitors, as Father Christmas tells an enchanting story and presents each child with a gift. As the night draws in, this leafy corner of the city transforms into a starlit wonderland reminiscent of a festive fairytale. If that wasn’t enough, you will find the standout seasonal event, Christmas at Kew, nearby. First opening in 2013, Kew Gardens’ spectacular display was the UK’s original light trail and has grown in both size and popularity, now spanning three kilometres, illuminating over one million individual lights and welcoming 400,000 captivated visitors each year.
Belgravia
This prestigious neighbourhood takes on an elegant festive touch during this time of year, while remaining as stylish and sophisticated as ever. A highlight is Elizabeth Street, undeniably one of the most beautiful streets in London at Christmastime, thanks to its magnificent decorative storefronts. Admire the lavish garlands outside Neill Strain Floral Couture, then stop off at boutique patisserie Peggy Porschen, known as “the prettiest bakery in the world” and our Dexters magazine cover star in Autumn 2021!
For a quintessentially British experience, The Lanesborough’s Bridgerton Afternoon Tea has been reimagined for the winter. The updated menu offers a selection of delicious spiced cocktails, a bespoke tea blend and delightful Christmas treats, including roast turkey sandwiches and eclairs topped with chocolate bows. If you’re looking for a memorable venue for your end-of-year celebration, Feast Off-Piste at The Berkeley invites diners to enjoy an authentic alpine menu from the comfort of custom-made ski gondolas. To end the day, unwind with a candlelit glass of wine at Amie Wine Studio, the perfect final touch to a winter’s day well spent.
If you’re looking for the perfect home this festive season, our local experts would be delighted to help with your property search. You can find your local office here.
