There is nothing more exciting than filling your diary with all your 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 the magic lying in store for you this Christmas…
1. See The Spirits of Christmas
Famed as the first ever festive light display in the country, ‘The Spirits of Christmas’ will be lighting up Regent Street and St James’s from November 7. The beautiful decorations will be switched on every evening, with visitors able to enjoy the twinkling displays until January 5.
In search of even more festive illuminations? Wander over to St James’s Market to visit the ‘Wishing Tree’ where visitors can simply tap to make a donation and watch as the tree comes to life with lights. All proceeds will go directly to The Felix Project, an organisation dedicated to distributing food to help feed communities across London.
2. 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. Shop for toys at the famous Hamleys flagship, choose chic fragrances and beauty at Molton Brown or Aesop, or find delicious stocking fillers in the form of Prestat’s handcrafted chocolates. For your bookworm friends and family, pick out some pageturners 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!
3. Indulge in delicious festive fare
One of the best things about Christmas is the food, and this year you should prepare to festively feast your way around the world-class eateries across Regent Street and St James’s.
Ambassador’s Clubhouse 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, Scully, and Sael or try Regent Street favourites such as Aqua and Brasserie Zedel, or Bentley’s on Swallow Street.
4. 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. Or visit the Royal Academy of Arts, the ICA and Christie’s for some breathtaking artwork.