As the festive season approaches, London transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, bustling markets, and heartwarming traditions. From the iconic streets lined with shimmering decorations to the cheerful notes of carolers echoing through historic squares, Christmas in London is not just an event, but an experience that captivates the soul.
The Festive Atmosphere
Walking through the city during Christmas is like stepping into a Charles Dickens novel. The air is crisp, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the streets. London’s famous landmarks, like the Tower Bridge and the London Eye, are adorned with festive lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the winter night sky.
Christmas Markets and Shopping
No Christmas in London would be complete without a visit to its renowned markets. The Southbank Centre Winter Market, set against the backdrop of the Thames, offers a delightful array of artisanal crafts and mouth-watering treats.
For those seeking the quintessential British shopping experience, London’s iconic department stores, such as Harrods and Selfridges, are festooned with extravagant Christmas displays. The window displays are a true art form, telling enchanting stories that captivate both young and old.
Exciting Events
London’s cultural scene thrives during the festive season. The Royal Albert Hall hosts an array of Christmas concerts, from classical to contemporary, providing a perfect setting for holiday entertainment. The city’s theaters come alive with performances of ‘The Nutcracker’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’, offering a magical escape into the world of theatre.
Culinary Delights
British Christmas cuisine is a highlight of the season. Traditional dishes like roast turkey, mince pies, and Christmas pudding can be found in cozy pubs and fine dining establishments across the city. Afternoon tea, a quintessentially British affair, takes a festive turn with seasonal treats and spiced teas.
London’s bakers are turning out cracking mince pies this Christmas along with less traditional takes on the festive favourite. Here’s where to get your hands on them.
Here is our list of the best mince pies in the city:
Fortitude Bakehouse
Bloomsbury – 35 Colonnade, London WC1N 1JD
Fermentation is a big thing at Dee Rettali’s Bloomsbury bakehouse and that continues with their mince pies. The fermented contents include currants, apples and even Guinness, baked into shortcrust pastry.
Follow on Instagram: @fortitudebakehouse
Paul Rhodes Bakery
Greenwich – 37 King William Walk, London SE10 9HU
Using a sweet buttery tart case, Greenwich baker Paul Rhodes’ classic mince pies are filled with a mincemeat mix made of currants, sultanas and mixed peel and an extra dash of mixed spice and citrus on top. Finished off with demerara, they come in mini and standard sizes.
Follow on Instagram: @Paulrhodesbakery
Violet Cakes
Hackney – 47 Wilton Way, London E8 3ED
Royal wedding cake baker Claire Ptak is selling mince pies from her bakery individually or in boxes of nine. They’re made with English apples, brandy-soaked sultanas, currants and raisins, with candied citrus peel and winter spices, all in a buttery sweet pastry.
Follow on Instagram: @violetcakeslondon
