There is nothing more exciting than filling your diary with pre-Christmas rituals. From shopping for presents under the twinkle of Christmas lights displays, to indulging in treats from seasonal menus, the magic of the festive period just never gets old. And where better to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year than the stunning historic neighbourhoods of Regent Street and St James’s? This is just some of what lies in store for you this Christmas…
See The Spirits of Christmas
Famed as the first ever scheme in the country and largest light display in central London, ‘The Spirits of Christmas’ will be lighting up Regent Street and St James’s from November 9. These intricate, three dimensional sculptures, switched on from 3pm-11pm daily, will be spreading their impressive 17 metre wing spans even further afield this year. As well as their usual locations, you can expect to see new decorations on Glasshouse Street, Quadrant Arcade, St James’s Market and Swallow Street.
Tick off your Christmas shopping list
Even the pickiest of family members are a pleasure to shop for under those gorgeous twinkling lights. And with an abundance of flagship stores and lovely independent boutiques at your disposal, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gift for each and everyone.
From exquisite hampers to high end fashion and homeware, you’ll find a treasure trove of indulgent gifts in department stores Fortnum & Mason and Liberty London. You can also shop chic Spanish street wear at Bimba Y Lola and personalised engraved gifts at Mulberry or Molton Brown. Prestat’s handcrafted chocolates are the ultimate treat to fill stockings, or you can pick out the best books from the shelves of Hatchards, Picadilly’s 18th century bookshop. And don’t forget to pick up some luxurious artisan cheese from Paxton & Whitfield to pair with an award-winning wine from Berry Bros. & Rudd – perfect to serve at a festive soirée!
Pick out the perfect festive party outfit
It wouldn’t be Christmas without some festive soirées to get dressed up for, and this year you can find a fabulous pre-loved outfit to show off at Luxe Dressing. This sustainable, second hand designer clothes pop-up is full to the brim with to-die-for high end items with great discounts, and is open until early 2024. Get your hands on everything from Hermes belts to Prada heels – and don’t forget to sign up as a seller yourself if you have your own pre-loved designer pieces to pass on! 4 Conduit Street W1S 2XE
Indulge in delicious seasonal treats
Get ready to feast your way around London’s most festive neighbourhoods this Christmas, with delicious food and drink available across Regent Street and St James’s world-class eateries. Heddon Street Kitchen’s terrace or the Treehouse Hotel rooftop are wonderful places to enjoy a Christmassy cocktail after some shopping. Or why not go all out with a mouth watering Christmas feast with all the trimmings at Hotel Café Royal? Venchi’s flagship store is on hand to satisfy all of your sweet cravings with gelato, crepes and hot chocolate, and there are plenty of excellent options for celebratory meals out with family and friends. Check out the foodie corner of St James’s Market for spots such as Fallow and Scully, or try Regent Street favourites such as Aqua and Brasserie Zedel.
Check out the fantastic cultural offering
If you’re hoping to plan a fun, festive outing with family or friends, you’ll not be short of great activities in Regent Street in St James’s. Across these bustling cultural hubs you can enjoy everything from theatre and cinema to world-class art and photography. Watch the iconic musical, Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre or catch a play at Jermyn Street Theatre. Movie fanatics can catch the latest blockbusters at the Regent Street Cinema, regarded as the birthplace of British cinema. And Stern Pisarro, David Messum Fine Art and the Centre for British Photography are fantastic places to admire some of the best art and photography in London!