Christmas in London: 2018
Last year I wrote a blog post about Christmas in London, this year I am doing the same! No it won't all look the same, because with each year that passes, the displays get bigger and better. Although that being said, sadly Cartier (one of my favourite festive facades) is currently undergoing renovation so no big red bow this year!
The displays start going up on 1st November, however, if you want to see the city in full decorative swing, I would wait to visit until December as this is when everyone seems ready! There seems to be pockets of the city that go all out, I would say if you want to see the best of Christmas then Mayfair is the place to go, covering Oxford Street, Regent Street and up to Hyde Park. However, you will see a few photos from outside that area, as Leadenhall Market is my favourite spot throughout December.
I got the tube straight to Oxford Circus, accidentally walked out a different exit to usual, got delirious and realised I had walked up the wrong road. Once I pulled my brain back into gear I headed straight for Liberty London, a large department star with a gorgeous facade. Hidden behind Oxford Circus you would be forgiven for missing it completely, but this is one definitely for the Christmas lovers. Head up to the fourth floor and find a beautiful Christmas shop filled with the most beautiful decorations! There is also a stunning Christmas display with a large hot air balloon filling the hollow space between floors. Continue down Maddox Street and your head will be turned by the beautiful flower front of the Maddox Gallery, with every season they make a huge effort to make their gallery stand out, it is always successful.
A short walk from here is Claridges, a well-renowned luxury hotel, Claridges has been on the luxury London scene since the 1850s, attracting royal guests, movie icons and popstars from around the world. Christmas at Claridge's is always an exciting affair, with a hotly awaited unveiling of their Christmas tree each year it's no surprise many tourists head to the hotel to feel festive.
Next on the list was Annabel's probably 2018's most photographed display. Annabel's, a world-famous private members club have gone all out this year with a huge, lit up Christmas tree facade. If you hang around here long enough you might spot a celebrity heading through its doors.
This next display, at Pulbrook & Gould is tucked around the corner from the main street. Beware if you are easily spooked, get close to Santa and he will start moving and singing at you!
Mount Street, just up from Hyde Park is lined with brilliantly decorated shops, restaurants and private clubs. One of my favourites was George's a private club and decorated with candy canes and gingerbread men! Annoyingly it is one of those places that I think looks better in person than on camera so I guess that is a good excuse to go and see it for yourself.
Another display tucked into a quiet corner was the pink and purple festive butterfly wreath at Sophia Webster, an absolutely gorgeous designer shoe store. The butterfly wings are a great addition due to the brand's famous angel wing shoes. One day when I have won the lottery I will buy my own pair!
I then left Mayfair and got the Tube up to Old Street because my stomach was rumbling and I have a worrying addiction to Penang Curry, specifically from Grab Thai. Whilst I don't think the city has quite cottoned on as much to Christmas displays, there are a few gems hanging around. One being the Zetter Townhouse, a small hotel that always creates a charming seasonal display.
Last but not least, my favourite tree in London, Leadenhall Market! The tree is not huge but it is the perfect addition to a gorgeous covered market, one that can be spotted in Harry Potter!
