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Everything you and your guests need to know about spending Christmas in London, from where to go to what to do.
Christmas in London is an experience everyone should have. There was a time, not long ago, when London might have seemed a peculiar choice for a Christmas Superyacht destination, but those are days of the past. With all its celebrated landmarks, culture and not to mention the berth options right in the heart of the city, London is one of the best places to berth around Christmas and take in the fantastic festive atmosphere.
A surge in popularity in recent years has seen London become an all-year-round Superyacht hot spot, with November and December being the best times to take in the festive atmosphere. When you look at the wide range of iconic shows, world-class restaurants, and, of course, the magical Christmas markets, it isn’t hard to see why…
Where to stay:
Depending on the size of your vessel, there’s no denying that St Katharine’s Dock is a magical place to be at Christmas time. This quaint little marina was renovated in 2017 and evolved into a thriving waterside community featuring 185 berths for vessels up to 40m. If your vessel is above 40 meters, then there are several options out on the Thames that will keep your guests occupied in the thick of London’s Christmas hustle. With Tower Bridge just a stone’s throw away from all of these berths, MGMT can even arrange a commemorative photoshoot for your Superyacht to be captured in front of this iconic backdrop, which is even more spectacular in the winter.
Elsewhere, you can’t go wrong with Central London, where you will find the best Christmas light displays (Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street, to name a few!); unbeatable shopping at landmarks such as Harrods and beloved toy shop Hamleys; and then there are the Christmas markets, all of which are a veritable treasure trove of Christmas spirit.
Which London Christmas Markets to visit:
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland is widely considered the all-singing, all-dancing leader when it comes to London’s Christmas markets. From fairy-tale ice kingdoms to Bavarian beer houses, all of the festive boxes can be ticked in this magical setting.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
One of best places to walk along the banks of the Thames, the Southbank offers a true taste of London atmosphere; never more so than at Christmas time, when it is adorned with a plethora of Christmas lights and market stalls.
Borough Market, London Bridge
Definitely one for culinary connoisseurs, Borough Market is already known as a foodie haven amongst Londoners, and this only gets more prevalent at Christmas.
Christmas activities for all the family:
‘Hogwarts in the Snow’, Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
If you want to be the most popular member of the family this Christmas, then tickets to the ever-popular, ever-enchanting ‘Hogwarts in the Snow’ is a guarantee. MGMT can even arrange a private experience, if budget and time allow!
‘Home Alone’ in Concert, Royal Albert Hall
If you didn’t think one of the world’s best Christmas movies could get any better, then how about watching it in one of the most striking concert halls in the world, with the backing of a live orchestra?!
Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum
Not only will you get to witness one of London’s most stunning feats of architecture while skating with your family, but you will also be able to take in some culture beforehand.
Read More: Four Ski Destinations Off The Beaten Track
Where to eat this Christmas in London:
‘Miracle at 34’ @ 34 Mayfair
The ultimate Christmas dining experience, 34 Mayfair made a name for itself back in 2020 when it installed 14,000 decorations, including 8,400 glittering baubles, for guests to immerse themselves in while enjoying the exquisite cuisine.
Claridge’s
If it’s fine dining you’re after, you needn’t look any further than the quintessential British cuisine at Claridge’s. While you’re there, you can also visit their world-famous Christmas tree, which takes on a different guise each year, courtesy of the world’s best fashion houses.
Coppa Club, Tower Bridge
What started as a niche idea, seeing guests dine in beautiful (extremely Instagram-worthy) private igloos, has now evolved into one of London’s most popular dining experiences, all set in front of the magnificent Southbank skyline.
Which Christmas shows to see:
The Nutcracker, London Coliseum
Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, brought to life by the English National Ballet, continues to be a festive treat for all the family, attracting thousands of theatre-goers every year.
Elf the Musical, Dominion Theatre
Based on the hit Christmas movie, ‘Elf the Musical’ has proven itself a favourite for children and adults alike, following the charming tale of Buddy the Elf as he makes his way on a journey across New York.
Carols at the Royal Albert Hall
It doesn’t get more festive than taking part in one of the most popular sing-along carol concerts in the country. You can also marvel at the beautiful setting, finished off with the finest modern decorations.
MGMT have we’ve made a fine art of helping their Superyacht clients to make the most of their London experience, so if you’ve seen anything in this article that takes your fancy, be sure to get in touch with the UK’s leading yacht agent today.
