Curator’s statement
London is one of my favorite cities to visit and what better time to go than during the Christmas season? If you’re in the mood for some glitz and glam then London is the perfect place to be. Whether you’re going for a quick getaway with friends or staying over for the holidays. London offers everything you could want and more in the way of entertainment and holiday joy for you and your loved ones. Read on below for some of my tips on how to enjoy your best Christmas ever in sparkly London.
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Where to stay in England
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Things to do in England
Kew Gardens is beautiful any time of year but at Christmas the gardens are transformed by twinkly lights and Christmas music. What better way to get into the spirit of the season? Make sure to check out the food vendors along your route.
Shopping at Fortnum and Mason is one of the most magical experiences during the holidays. The sights, sounds and smells are enough to put even Ebenezer Scrooge in the holiday spirit. Make sure to grab some of their Best of British picks for anyone you may be shopping for (& don’t forget yourself too!) — don’t forget to enjoy a holiday tea with some of their seasonal treats!
What would Christmas be without watching A Christmas Carol? Over the years there have been many versions of this Charles Dickens classic, but you can watch it yourself at The Old Vic. This year the Jack Thorne adaptation stars Christopher Eccleston as Ebenezer Scrooge and is sure to be an evening to remember.
Borough Market is a must-see any time of the year, but at Christmas you cannot miss it. Come with an empty stomach and your shopping lists ready because there’s something for everyone in this incredible place.
Christmas markets in Bath. If you haven’t had enough Christmas spirit already, then shopping in the historic city of Bath, while it’s all bedecked in its winter finery (snowy chalets anyone?) will get you there. Make sure to visit the Roman Baths while you’re there.
Day Trips
Rochester Dicken’s Victorian Christmas Festival. This beautiful city is the place to be in early December, if you’re a fan of Charles Dickens. It’s overflowing with Victorian festivities, parades and a cathedral. The beautiful Norman castle is not to be missed; neither are the many Dickens sites. Be sure to go first thing in the month so you don’t miss out.
Places to eat & drink in England
A holiday meal at Duke of Sussex could be one of the highlights of your trip to London. Their beautifully crafted meals are sure to be talked about long after your trip is over.
Choose from one of their many festive Christmas menus. They even have a lovely terrace you can have your meal on if you’d like.
Eat at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet St. This pub was rebuilt in 1667, after the original one was burned down by the Great Fire of London in 1666. Charles Dickens bragged about their fare and even featured the pub in A Tale of Two Cities. Make sure to try their Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce and Clotted Cream, to die for.
Travel Advisor
Jennifer Isom
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Seven Days Exploring Classic and Ancient Ireland.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to England.