Why a trip to London in December is worthwhile
London is always worth a trip, but especially now lures with plenty of luxury shopping, festive culinary experiences and unforgettable activities.
November 16, 2022
London has been a top destination for pre-Christmas shopping and city trips not just since the 2003 Christmas movie classic Love Actually. On the contrary, the city on the Thames has many traditions to offer around the holidays. But it also never tires of reinventing itself. What you should not miss in 2022:
The world of Dior
Check out this post on Instagram
When it comes to window dressing, you can't forget about perhaps the most famous department store in the world: Harrods. The icon of a department store surprises shoppers and onlookers alike every year with its decorations. This year, Harrods is celebrating "The Fabulous World of Dior." Two pop-up boutiques, two beauty spaces and a gourmet café are dedicated to the fashion label. You can delve even deeper into its history in the immersive exhibition on the lowest floor.
Good to know: open until January 3, 2023, thefabulousworldofdior.com
Ice skating with Moët & Chandon
Ice skating in a city is atmospheric in and of itself, but Somerset House is upping the ante! © Owen Harvey
What could be better than gliding effortlessly over glassy ice in the fresh air? London has a particularly large number of open-air skating rinks. The most famous is "Skate at Somerset House." This year, the ice rink in the heart of London is even bigger. A 12 meter high Christmas tree is its pièce de résistance. It is decorated with specially curated ornaments from Moët & Chandon. DJ sets complement the experience. To ensure you won't go hungry, there's an alpine pop-up restaurant called "Chalet Suisse." If you get thirsty, drop by the Skate Lounge by Moët & Chandon.
Good to know: open until January 15, 2023, tickets from approx. €12 incl. skate rental
Southbank Winter Festival
Strolling with a view of the Thames and skyscrapers to the right: the South Bank of the Thames makes it possible. © Shutterstock
Little lights twinkle above you. It's dark. The scent of mulled wine and street food is in the air. You can hear people laughing in the distance. At curling, someone just hit the opposing team's rock again. The mood is relaxed, easy-going: we're talking about the Southbank Winter Festival along the Thames. In addition to good food and an enchanting Winter Light Exhibition, there are exhibitions at the Hayward Gallery and a musical program as well.
Good to know: open until January 8, 2023. Through December 26, 2022, the Winter Market will be held as part of the Winter Festival with vendor booths. It opens daily at 11 a.m.
Celebrate Tea Time
At the Hotel Café Royal on Regent Street, afternoon tea is cause for celebration. © Café Royal
Afternoon tea in London is always a special experience. In the time leading up to Christmas, afternoon tea is also a good way to fortify yourself for a second (third, or fourth) round of shopping. To this day, there are stylish tea times at the noble "Langham Hotel, where the snack was supposedly invented. Afternoon tea at Hotel Café Royal is particularly Christmassy. Right here on Regent Street, you'll get a festive taste at the Oscar Wilde Lounge. The étagère features small delicacies, handmade by executive pastry chef Loic Carbonett and his team. A pear and gingerbread sorbet, smoked salmon, pumpkin panna cotta, marinated cucumbers, scones, and sweets transport you to decadent worlds.
Good to know: Festive Afternoon Tea is approx. €80 per person and €90 with a glass of champagne. Reservation recommended.
Champagne in igloo
Check out this post on Instagram
Advent in London can be quite a demanding affair. Unwind by meeting up with friends and enjoying a good meal – stress free and relaxed. A great place for that are the magical igloos at the Coppa Club. The warm and cozy bubbles offer a view of the Tower Bridge and the Shard. Thanks to a cooperation with Laurent-Perrier, special champagne cocktails are also available.
Good to know: open until January 23, 2023, reservations strongly recommended.
Christmas at Kew
After dark, you can't help but marvel at Kew Gardens. © Sarah Bray
Everyone heads to "Christmas at Kew." Every year in the run-up to Christmas, Kew Gardens is transformed into an illuminated spectacle. As soon as it gets dark, the "Winter Trail" with its flickering torches, lights and sculptures leads through the park. Along the way, you can warm up with hot chocolate, street food and a Christmas treat or two.
Good to know: open until January 8, 2023, daily from 4:20 p.m. Tickets from approx. €22. Reservation recommended.
Festive gourmet cuisine
Check out this post on Instagram
London is a hub for outstanding cuisine from around the world. During the run-up to Christmas, most of them tempt diners with special holiday menus. At the beautiful Four Seasons Trinity Square, for example, Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic serves a French-inspired menu in a sophisticated setting at La Dame de Pic. Foie gras, Bûche de Noël, Scottish langoustines and poulette de la cour d'armoise are on the festive menu.
Good to know: menus from approx. €195 per person
