Christmas in London
A Festive Jaunt
[Up to 4 hours excluding lunch]
Winter in London is one of the most exciting times to visit the city. With sparkling lights along almost every street, as well as christmas markets selling delicious fare and glacial ice rinks full of excited children, there is so much so enjoy!
In this Inspiration Iitinerary we will walk you from the central location of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree in front of the National Gallery to the brightly coloured streets around Carnaby Street – a most illuminating jaunt! Make sure you stop for a glass of mulled wine or a hot chocolate to keep spirits elevated and fingers warm in the festive season!
Trafalgar Square & The National Gallery
The great Nordic spruce tree in London’s Trafalgar Square is perhaps one of the most iconic symbols that Christmas has arrived. Every year since 1947, in recognition of the UK’s assistance to Norway during World War II, the Norwegian government has gifted a tree to the people of Britain. At 66 feet high and draped with energy-efficient lights it is a sight to behold. From here you can also enjoy the Christmas markets that line the pedestrian space in front of the National Gallery. Full of authentic stores selling everything from decorations to mulled wine, it is not to be missed. If you need to pause and reflect on the meaning of Christmas before you set off on your festive walk, then pop into the National Gallery and check out Guido Reni’s Adoration of the Shepherds. Its monumental scale counterposes the tenderness with which Mary cradles the new born baby, as the shepherds gaze on adoringly. The Holy Child radiates light out into the darkness and illuminates the whole painting. At almost five metres high it is one of the largest paintings in the National Gallery.
From here take a turn up St. Martin’s Lane until you reach Monmouth Street. Not only the origin of the Monmouth Coffee House, one of the oldest in London, but the centre of Seven Dials – a charming star of streets radiating off a central sundial. Originally the rather down at heel area of St. Giles, today this is one of the most exciting places to eat, drink and shop. Head off into Neal’s Yard – a small brightly coloured secret courtyard for some truly stunning Christmas lights as well as the wonderful Neal’s Yard apothecary.
Seven Dials & Neal’s Yard
Carnaby Street
Only a short walk away is Carnaby Street where your walk ends. Considered to be the birthplace of the Swinging 60s in London, it is still one of the most fashionable areas. At this time of year it is fun to wander the alley ways around Carnaby Street and enjoy the stunning Christmas lights - they really go to town here! Themes range from Under the Sea to this year’s Into The Light. Briming with supremely cool boutiques and wonderful eateries such as Kingly Court, this gem of a neighbourhood is jam-packed with stuff to enjoy!
To book this itinerary with one of our expert guides, please get in touch