London is a remarkable city all year round, but the Christmas season truly brings the city to life. London transforms into a winter oasis for locals and visitors, offering luxury and memorable Christmas memories. For those seeking the very best that the Christmas season has to offer, Encore Lifestyle can curate a selection of exclusive, bespoke activities that ensure a truly memorable festive experience. Whether you are seeking world class shopping, fine dining or looking for private access to iconic attractions and shows, Encore Lifestyle can help you make the most of Christmas in London that will be forever memorable.
Ice Skating at Somerset House
One of the most iconic Christmas activities in London is ice skating, and Somerset House offers one of London’s most spectacular settings. With its grand courtyard, classical architecture and Christmas lights, the ice rink provides an elegant backdrop for an accomplished skater or a complete novice.
For those looking for a more luxurious experience as a group, head to the Skate Lounge by Whispering Angel, giving you a front row seat in comfort. As you sip on Whispering Angel and watch the skaters go by, enjoy the colours of the new lounge produced by the Whispering Angel team. If it is a late-night skate in London you are looking for, 'Skate Lates' at Somerset House transforms the Christmas ice rink into a party, with live DJ's with all of the music coming through the Skate Lounge.
Private Christmas Shopping at Harrods & The Afternoon at The Mandarin Oriental
One of London’s most recognisable and iconic venues for shopping is Harrods. Renowned the world over, Harrods transforms into a Christmas paradise during the holiday season, with themed windows, Christmas trees and a wealth of exclusive, high end brands. Encore Lifestyle can arrange a private shopping experience, where you will have a personal shopper to guide you through the stores many floors and assist you in finding each and every special gift, whether it be bespoke fashion items or an extraordinary piece of jewellery. Plus, with VIP access, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxed luxury shopping experience this Christmas. Take advantage of the Harrods gift wrapping service, to truly prepare for Christmas Day.
Once you have gathered your Christmas presents, take a stroll to the Mandarin Oriental, where you can enjoy one of London’s finest Christmas-inspired afternoon tea at The Rosebery, with a roaring fire and a festive afternoon tea, it promises to be journey of flavours and traditions. Â
Wreath Making Workshop with Nikki Tibbles
The Christmas Wreath Making Masterclass with Nikki Tibbles from Wild at Heart offers a hands-on, festive experience for those looking to create their own stunning Christmas wreaths. Set in a beautiful environment, this expert-led workshop provides all the materials and guidance needed to design a bespoke wreath using fresh, seasonal foliage, vibrant berries, and luxurious decorations. Each guest will learn the art of wreath-making from a true professional, discovering tips and techniques to craft a professional-looking wreath that can be proudly displayed throughout the Christmas season.
Luxury Dining & Exquisite Afternoon Tea at The Dorchester, Fortnum & Mason and The Lanesborough
London is home to a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants and historic eateries, making it the ideal city for indulgent Christmas dining. Encore Lifestyle offers bespoke reservations for the most exclusive restaurants, from dining at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester to Fallow in St James (Check our Best Restaurants in London Guide). For a more relaxed yet equally luxurious experience, enjoy a traditional Christmas Afternoon Tea at some of London’s prestigious venues, such as The Dorchester, Fortnum & Mason & The Lanesborough.
The Dorchester's Christmas Afternoon Tea in The Promenade offers a festive twist on a cherished tradition. Set in the heart of Mayfair. With award-winning pastry chef Michael Kwan at the helm, guests can indulge in a selection of exquisite cakes and pastries, each beautifully crafted with bold new flavours. The atmosphere is rich with seasonal cheer, celebrating the British love of tea with a touch of festive magic, making it an afternoon to remember
For an iconic afternoon tea, it is hard to beat Fortnum & Mason for a quintessentially British affair, serving traditional Christmas treats, such as mince pies, Christmas cakes and scones. Here you can also head to the infamous top floor, where you can design a bespoke Christmas hamper for you to enjoy over the holidays.
Finally, located in one of London’s most iconic hotels, the Lanesborough is offering a truly transporting afternoon tea this Christmas, with their Bridgerton inspired Afternoon Tea, transporting guests to the Regency era and located within the Regency dining room. The Head Pastry Chef, Pierre Morvan–Benezet, has crafted the menu to pay tribute to the key families in Bridgerton Season 3.
London’s legendary Christmas Afternoon Teas are a holiday tradition in themselves. Whether you are looking to indulge in a luxurious tea experience with family or enjoy a quiet afternoon of relaxation, these venues offer an experience of unparalleled elegance.
A Royal Christmas at Buckingham Palace
Christmas in London wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the grandeur of the British monarchy. Encore Lifestyle can arrange a private, guided tour of Buckingham Palace during the Christmas season. Offering exclusive access to the State Rooms, beautifully decorated for Christmas. This experience allows you to see the lavish decorations, historical treasures, and priceless artwork while learning about the royal traditions during Christmas. If you prefer something even more intimate, Encore Lifestyle can organise a private dinner or event at an equally regal venue, ensuring that your festive experience is nothing short of majestic.
Private Theatre Box for a West End Christmas Show
London’s West End is world-famous for its outstanding theatre productions, and during Christmas, many of the shows are extra festive. With Encore Lifestyle, you can book a private box at one of London’s premier theatres to enjoy a show in ultimate comfort and style. Whether you're seeing a Christmas pantomime, a classic production like The Nutcracker, or an award-winning musical, you’ll enjoy the performance from a bespoke vantage point with gourmet dining, champagne service, and full VIP treatment.
Exquisite Christmas Hotels: The Dorchester, The Lanesborough & The Langham
Staying at The Dorchester, The Lanesborough or The Langham over Christmas offers a truly magical experience, where festive luxury meets world-class service. At The Dorchester, guests are immersed in the heart of Mayfair, surrounded by elegant decorations and Christmas cheer. The hotel's Christmas offerings include festive afternoon teas, exceptional dining, and beautifully designed rooms, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Just a short distance away, The Lanesborough promises a similarly enchanting stay, with its refined Regency style enhanced by the spirit of Christmas. Here, guests can enjoy a bespoke "Christmas in Residence" experience, complete with exceptional service, exclusive festive menus, and luxurious touches like private Christmas tree installations in-room.
The Langham, home to pure opulence since 1865 this year is teaming up with Hamley's to create a truly memorable Christmas experience for families. From a magical Festive Children’s Afternoon Tea inspired by historic toys to a one-of-a-kind Hamleys Grotto where children can meet Santa, the collaboration promises to bring the Christmas spirit to life. Guests can also enjoy a specially curated Langham and Hamleys Festive Package, offering a luxurious suite stay, grotto visit, and in-room festive treats.
Whether you choose The Dorchester, The Lanesborough or The Langham, all three hotels provide an extraordinary setting for a sophisticated and unforgettable Christmas retreat in London.
Mayfair's Dovetale Christmas Market
For those seeking a more luxurious Christmas market experience, London has plenty to offer this festive season. This year 1 Hotel Mayfair’s Dovetale courtyard transforms into a winter village, home to three woodland huts, sponsored by major brands, Guinness, Singleton Whiskey and Casamigos tequila. The huts are serving Christmas treats through the day and Dovetale’s own hut will be the largest, recreating a Bavarian grotto, grilling bratwurst and roasting chestnuts to order.
Belmond Christmas Experience
For a more adventurous way to celebrate the season, hop aboard the luxurious Belmond British Pullman for a Christmas Train Experience, which offers a picturesque journey through the British countryside, complete with festive food, live entertainment, and a truly magical atmosphere. Alternatively, if you want to take in the holiday sights, look to hop aboard Christmas Lights Tour on the Polar Express, or experience a Vintage Christmas Bus Tour to see London in all its festive glory.
The Battersea Power Station Christmas Experience
Located in Battersea is the JOIA Rooftop Movie Pop Up, overlooking the Battersea Power Station chimney, offering a magical array of Christmas films that will put all guests into the holiday spirit. Why not combine your trip with the Sunday lunch or dinner to complete a perfect day out in London. Before you take to the rooftop for the incredible outdoor cinema, why not head down to the ice rink, to enjoy a truly magical Christmas experience with the backdrop of Battersea Power Station. If skating is not your first priority, you can head to The Glass House to enjoy a Christmas tipple or a warming hot chocolate.
Christmas at Kew Gardens
For a more relaxed evening in London, head to Kew, to the infamous Christmas at Kew celebration. The gardens at Kew are transformed into a winter oasis, where guests can walk through the illuminated tree canopy and festive installations whilst enjoying seasonal treats along the way. Once you have enjoyed the splendour of Kew Gardens, visitors can head to Scott's in Richmond, a British institution, to enjoy a dinner filled with opulence and joy. What’s more, throughout November and December, every Wednesday evening enjoy a live jazz trio performing jazz standards and more throughout dinner.
A Bespoke Christmas Experience with Encore Lifestyle     Â
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At Encore Lifestyle, we take pride in finding the best experiences available in London at Christmas. Our team is on hand to arrange a bespoke Christmas experience that meets and exceeds every expectation. Our Christmas in London blog, only mentions a handful of options available, if you are looking for a specific luxury experience, do not hesitate to reach out to our team to find your perfect Christmas getaway.