Well, there may be a blue sky over London today, as we enjoy balmy 20-degree temperatures in the city, but we can’t ignore the facts: Christmas is just a matter of weeks away. And that means the city’s ice rinks are… erm… what’s the opposite of de-frosting? Freezing? And Christmas lights will soon be shining down over almost every street in the city. It also means that London’s most Christmassy pub will soon unveil its dazzling annual display.
Some say that it isn’t Christmas until the John Lewis ad drops. Others say it’s not Christmas until the big day itself. But here at Secret London, we track the arrival of the season by one important event: when the Churchill Arms (aka the city’s prettiest and most Christmas-obsessed pub) switches on its annual festive display.
Say what you will about the Fleet Street Quarter Christmas lights, or Carnaby Street’s dazzling festive display, but nothing really beats the ultra-Christmassy Churchill Arms when it’s been absolutely festooned with Christmas trees, lights, and decorations. And they’ve recently announced that they’ll be transforming the pub and flipping the switch on the lights on November 12, at 6pm.
The Churchill Arms aka London’s most Christmassy pub
Even if you’ve not visited the Churchill Arms, or don’t recognise the name, I can almost guarantee that you know which boozer I’m talking about. It’s splashed all across social media throughout the year thanks to its brilliant floral facade, which is why so many refer to it as London’s prettiest pub.
During the holiday season, the West London watering hole opts for the ‘more is more’ approach, serving up Christmas cheer by the pint-load each and every year. In previous years, the Churchill Arms’ display has featured nearly 100 Christmas trees and a gasp-inducing 135,000 fairy lights. And we’re sure this year’s decorations will be just as dazzling.
The Churchill Arms is inviting you to get started early with your Christmas celebrations. On November 12, at 6pm, they’ll be switching on their festive display. So be sure to head on down, grab a pint, and brace for a wave of Christmassy cheer!
📍 The Churchill Arms, 119 Kensington Church Street, W8 7LN.
🚇 The nearest station is Notting Hill Gate.
🎄 The Christmas lights will be switched on from November 12.
