A Guide to Festive Activities Across London: For Guests Staying in Our Short or Mid-Term Accommodations this Christmas

London has a reputation for encapsulating a historic festive charm. For those in short to mid-term letting or staying in flexible serviced accommodation, there is no better time to wander through winding streets astir with festive ambience. Here, we offer a tailored guide to the best festive activities across our property locations in Chelsea, Westminster, Camden Town, Putney, Battersea and Notting Hill.

Chelsea

Chelsea at Christmas reflects a refined and elegant charm, with Sloane Street Winter Wonderland hosting holiday performances, markets and activities for all, ranging from cookie decorating to mulled wine tastings. Be sure not to miss the complimentary Horse and Carriage Rides every Saturday until mid-December, where you can admire Chelsea’s illuminated streets from the comfort of a cosy carriage.

The Duke of York Square Food Market is also a Saturday highlight not to be missed, with festive foods and artisanal gifts for your Christmas shopping. Families will love the glimmering Santa’s Grotto at Peter Jones once again, where even dogs can enjoy a ‘Santa Paws’ session too.

For those staying in our serviced apartments in Chelsea, these activities are within easy reach, offering a touch of holiday luxury to your short or mid-term letting experience. 

Westminster

Westminster always shines brightly during Christmas, with its renowned attractions and boutique hidden gems. Although most know of Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park with ice skating, thrilling rides and festive treats, not many know of the Mandarin Oriental Christmas fair, usually in mid-December; there you can find live carols in Knightbridge’s luxurious setting, to provide a Christmas atmosphere as you browse artisan gifts.

For a unique holiday experience, try the Fork N Film dining experience, where culinary courses are exquisitely paired to popular films and at this time of year, Christmas classics. Flexible hosting accommodation in Westminster put you in the heart of these experiences, making it ideal for guests seeking both a prime location and holiday spirit. 

Camden

Camden Town is a festive wonderland over the winter period, with its distinct, eclectic vibe. If you’re struggling to find a gift for a certain someone, we recommend heading to the Camden Christmas Market where there are local crafts and holiday treasures, besides live music and seasonal workshops. After some shopping, perhaps head to Kenwood House for a more traditional touch, where there are seasonal events against a breathtaking historical backdrop. For something more unconventional, it’s worth visiting the Humbug Immersive Dive Bar for a quirky Christmas bar experience. Guests in our accommodation will appreciate Camden’s lively and diverse festive options, perfect for exploring during a longer stay. 

King’s Cross

King’s Cross, especially Coal Drops Yard, is a festive haven. To start, we recommend a mince pie boat trip on the narrowboat Long Tom, where you can meander through London’s longest canal tunnel with a warm fruit punch in hand, aside a locally-baked mince pie.

In the Christmas Canopy Market, there are handcrafted gifts alongside festive food, with live music and workshops such as Christmas wreath making. Afterwards, perhaps head to the London Canal Museum where there are often carols by candle-light, and Edwardian themed demonstrations like ice-cream making.

Alternatively, the Charles Dickens Museum also offers their own range of performances, if you fancy delving into the more literary side of Christmas. Especially if you are keen to explore a more traditional Christmas, Kings Cross offers an array of activities to those staying in short or mid-term accommodation with us.

Battersea

Battersea is home to a riverside celebration of Christmas, particularly at Battersea Power Station which comes into its own at this time of year. From seasonal decorations to skating rinks against an iconic backdrop and Santa’s Grotto, there’s something for everyone; alongside festive pop-up dining and dazzling light displays to add to the experience. Then, if you’re in need of warming up after, we recommend going to the JOIA Rooftop Film Club where they are showing festive films with panoramic views of London from the 16th floor. Perhaps also book into a Christmas Cruise Along the Thames to capture London’s illuminated landmarks from the water. All in all, Battersea’s charm is just perfect for guests looking for a blend of both tradition and modernity this Christmas.

Putney

While quieter than some areas, Putney still exudes its own Christmas charm. Fulham Palace offers a delightful array of holiday activities, with a spectacular light trail and a magical Santa’s Grotto. The Putney Arts Theatre adds to the festivities with performances of classic Winter tales enchanting audiences with festive cheer.

Book lovers can visit Hurlingham Books, one of the oldest independent bookshops in South West London, perhaps to pick up a cherished Christmas classic. Putney is also known for its scenic riverside walks, adorned with seasonal lights, which pairs well with a hot chocolate in hand to revel in London’s festive spirit.

Notting Hill

Notting Hill offers Christmas with a bohemian twist: of course, we can’t ignore the iconic Portobello Road Christmas Market with seasonal stalls, perfect for distinctive gifts and festive foods. Around this area, there are a plethora of pop-up winter bars where you can celebrate with family or friends over holiday-themed cocktails in cosy settings.

Another excellent spot for gift shopping is the landmark Notting Hill Bookshop, a charming experience in itself too. Then, we recommend the classic Electric Cinema where they are offering Christmas films in their luxurious vintage setting.  For those staying in Notting Hill, the area’s vibrant Christmas scene provides endless entertainment. 

Christmas is one of the best occasions to be in London and if you are staying in one of our short or mid-term lets this year, then it is the perfect opportunity to become immersed in the seasonal festivities. With our accommodations offering Christmas home comfort as well as proximity to all manner of festive events; whether you’re in Chelsea for its elegance, Camden for its edge, or Battersea for its riverside charm, London is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable Christmas.