London is a hotspot at Christmas time, with endless markets, pantomimes, shopping and of course, Winter Wonderland. There is nothing better than walking down Carnaby Street with a hot coffee warming your hands. Going into the shops, hearing the Christmas music and seeing the lights turn on. If you’re lucky, you may even see some snow!

The week running up to Christmas Day is always manic, however going a few weekends before, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer in a calmer environment. In this post, I have listed hotels, places to eat and tourist attractions that are perfect for making your Christmassy weekend away extra special.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Saint

A room with a view - the Hotel Saint is a 4-star hotel located in Aldgate, only a 10 minute walk away from the Sky Garden and Tower Bridge. On the 14th floor, there is a rooftop bar called the Jin Bo Law Skybar which has incredible views, overlooking the city of London. The hotel is reasonably priced given the central location. It’s the perfect place to stay with most of the tourist attractions being within walking distance. Aldgate tube station is also next door to the hotel.

art’otel Battersea Power Station

Staying at art’otel Battersea over Christmas feels like checking into a festive hideaway with serious style. The rooftop pool might be a little too chilly in December, but that’s exactly why they’ve got the hot tub—steamy, skyline views and all. With Battersea Power Station lit up for the season just next door, it’s the perfect base for a wintery London weekend.

Sunborn Yacht Hotel

If you can stretch your budget a bit further then how about staying on a yacht for the weekend? The Sunborn Yacht Hotel is located next to the Excel Arena, at the Custom House DLR. It’s just a few minutes away from the O2 arena and Canary Wharf by train. The interior is spectacular, plus every room has a balcony overlooking The Thames.

WHERE TO EAT

London’s Southbank

At Christmas time, London’s Southbank is home to many markets and street entertainment. Food stalls with every cuisine available, including crepes and delicious fast food. Rekorderlig also has a huge pop-up bar where you can taste all of their ciders. It’s the perfect place to relax with friends, overlooking the London Eye.

Madison Rooftop Restaurant

Madison Rooftop restaurant is one of my favourite places in the city, in the summer and the winter. There is a huge outside space to wine, dine and take in the impressive views of the city and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Live musicians, singers and bands play and keep you entertained whilst you’re warming up around the pyramid fire heaters.

The Coppa Club

The Coppa Club is a restaurant made up of cosy igloos, situated on the River Thames overlooking Tower Bridge. They have a delicious menu including pizzas, grilled dishes and healthy salads. It’s the perfect place to snuggle up with your loved ones after a long day of adventuring around the city.

Getting Around

Using the underground is the most cost-effective and easiest way to travel around the city. You can either use a contactless bank card or an Oyster Card to tap in and out of the stations. If you’re planning on seeing many sights then buying the London Pass will be beneficial and will save you a lot of money. It includes attractions like The Tower of London and The View from The Shard. All the information is on their website www.londonpass.com. There is also a night tube which runs on Friday and Saturday nights on the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines.

Attractions

Pantomimes, Winter Wonderland & Ice-Skating

Every Christmas time, the UK is famous for its pantomimes up and down the country. The London shows are especially great with many celebrities playing the lead roles. The London Palladium and other West End theatres are home to the top-rated pantos. Whether you’re a parent or not, they’re great fun for all the family. West End shows including The Lion King, Wicked and Les Miserables also continue throughout the festive period.

Located in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is THE ultimate place to get into the Christmas spirit. With free entry, you get access to all the markets, food stands, ice-rink and fairground. If you’re planning to go just before Christmas then it will be super busy! I suggest going late evening or during the week to avoid the huge crowds. It’s open from 3pm until midnight.

The National History Museum builds an ice rink every winter season. It’s another great activity to get you into the festive feels. Take a loved one with you, or grab a penguin just in case you’re unsteady on the ice! Open every day from 10am - 9pm except for Christmas Day.

Shopping

Every year I make a special Christmas shopping trip to London. Even if I don’t buy anything - hearing the music and seeing the decorations in the shops and on the streets, is an amazing way to start the holidays. Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Regent Street and Covent Garden are all my favourites.