The Most Festive London Hotels at Christmastime

Nowhere is quite as magical as London at Christmastime. The British city loves to celebrate the festive season with Christmas lights, specialty shops, and vibrant decorations appearing each year. Every London neighborhood comes with its own cheery activities and sights. Stroll through Covent Garden to get a glimpse of the towering Christmas tree. Wander Kew Gardens after dark, when the Christmas at Kew event illuminates the grounds in extraordinary color. Near Mayfair, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland offers rides and games for some family-friendly fun. 

All this holiday cheer can also be found in some of London’s best hotels, which host themed afternoon teas, serve up festive meals, and take their decorations very seriously. Read on to discover our picks for the London hotels that go above and beyond during the Christmas season.

Best London Hotels at Christmastime

• Editor’s Pick: The Connaught
• The Langham
• The Goring
• The Stafford London
• The Dorchester
• The Savoy
• Claridge's
• The Mayfair Townhouse
• Covent Garden Hotel
• Corinthia London
• Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
• The Twenty Two
  

Editor’s Pick: The Connaught

Why We Chose It

This refined hotel in the heart of Mayfair welcomes the holidays with carols and a Christmas tree.

 Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Aman spa, Bang & Olufsen speakers, Bamford toiletries

Hotel Description

Each year, The Connaught puts up an artist-designed Christmas tree outside its doors on Mayfair’s Mount Street, signaling the arrival of the holiday season. Inside, the luxury property goes all-in with its decor and festivities, including Christmas carols and themed menus at one of the hotel’s four restaurants. Don’t miss the martini trolley in the Connaught Bar, and be sure to book a table for a whimsical afternoon tea at Jean-Georges. If you happen to be there on Christmas Day, a horse-drawn carriage ride awaits.

The Langham, London

Why We Chose It

This grand luxury property is a hop away from Oxford Street shopping and has one of the best cocktail bars in town.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Spa, indoor pool, gym, children’s program

Hotel Description

Each year, The Langham, which sits just north of Oxford Street, goes full holiday glitz and glam. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea in Palm Court, one of the hotel's restaurants, or grab a table at Artesia, an award-winning bar with both classic and custom cocktails. For 2022, the hotel’s Christmas theme is The Langham Musical Christmas, in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Music, with special events and activities through New Year’s Eve.

The Goring

Why We Chose It

This old-school London hotel, which holds a Royal Warrant of Appointment, embraces tradition in a memorable way.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Fitness room, complimentary shoeshine, children’s amenities

Hotel Description

No one does English luxury like The Goring, and the royal family's favorite hotel doesn't hold back at Christmastime. Located in Belgravia, near Buckingham Palace, the hotel becomes the epitome of elegance around the holidays. Enjoy a joyful meal in The Dining Room, and don’t skimp on the famed Goring Christmas pudding. For a different sort of treat, the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a short walk away through St. James Park.

The Stafford

Why We Chose It

This stately hotel is adjacent to Mayfair and Green Park and features stylish rooms perfect for a Christmas celebration.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Nespresso machine, gym, 17th-century wine cellar 

Hotel Description

London crowds during the Christmas season are notorious, but The Stafford — set in St. James’s just off Green Park — is the perfect holiday haven. The hotel greets guests with lights, multiple Christmas trees, and room after room of seasonal decor. Whether you're cozying up in The American Bar, mulled wine in hand, or indulging in a delicious meal at The Game Bird, a stay at The Stafford will leave you feeling exactly how you should during the holiday season: warm and merry.

As any visitor will tell you, exploring London will take you ages. A weekend trip is barely enough time to see all of the main sights. If you stay somewhere in the heart of things (in this case, right next to Buckingham Palace) you'll be able to soak up more of what the "Big Smoke" has to offer. The Rubens at the Palace is old school — think deep hues, velvets, and a penchant for British heritage — and, as any guest will tell you, the property's dining experiences will get anyone in the Christmas spirit. You can't visit the United Kingdom without enjoying an afternoon tea, so you'll have to save room for The Rubens' "Winter Wonderland" Afternoon Tea. The 90-minute experience includes bottomless mulled wine, speculoos fruit scones, and pastries aptly named Santa's Log and Rudolph's Cupcake.

The Dorchester

Why We Chose It

Known as one of London’s best luxury hotels, this historic property comes with high-end amenities and unparalleled park views.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Babysitting and pet-sitting services, in-house tailor, chauffeur-driven luxury cars

Hotel Description

Expect nothing less than sheer glamor at The Dorchester at Christmastime. The hotel has ornate decor and a strong sense of tradition. Dressing up is a must, as is ordering from the seasonal menus at The Grill and Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester. Indulge in afternoon tea or take a festive master class, which encourages guests to make their own mulled wine and Christmas pudding. Additionally, The Dorchester is only steps from Hyde Park, where you can experience the Winter Wonderland festivities.

The Savoy

Why We Chose It

One the city’s most majestic and historic hotels offers a prime location for the holiday season. 

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Penhaligon’s toiletries, 24-hour gym, indoor pool, chauffeur-driven luxury cars

Hotel Description

The Savoy, which has overlooked the Thames for more than 130 years, is one of London’s most historic hotels, meaning that the luxury property takes the holiday tradition very seriously. Expect elegant decor throughout the lobby and grandiose Thames Foyer, where the hotel offers a seasonal version of its high-end afternoon tea service. Enjoy a festive cocktail at the American Bar or dinner in the Thames Foyer, which serves up a special menu for the holidays on select evenings. The hotel’s location, adjacent to Covent Garden, means easy access to one of the city’s most festive neighborhoods.

Claridge's Hotel

Why We Chose It

This chic Mayfair property is known for its annual Christmas tree and its high-end service. 

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Bose Bluetooth portable speakers, spa, chauffeur-driven luxury cars

Hotel Description

Claridge's has been around since the 1850s, maintaining its status as an icon and a must-visit, especially during the holidays. The hotel displays the Claridge's tree, designed each year by a different artist. To get the full Claridge’s Christmas experience, you'll want to book afternoon tea or an overnight stay on Christmas Eve itself, which includes a visit from Santa. The hotel’s Mayfair location, a quick walk to Regent Street and Oxford Circus, ensures Christmas lights and shopping galore.

The Mayfair Townhouse

Why We Chose It

The central location and prestigious address make for a stylish and convenient stay around the holidays.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary minibar, gym, Noble Isle toiletries

Hotel Description

Located across from Green Park, in the southern part of Mayfair, The Mayfair Townhouse makes an ideal home base for exploring London at Christmas. The rooms are modern with great amenities and large TVs, and the breakfast service is a nice touch. During the holiday season, expect a cozy, festive atmosphere and easy access to nearby shopping spots. While the hotel doesn’t serve afternoon tea, its sister property, 11 Cadogan Gardens, offers a delightfully classic service that’s worth a trip.

Covent Garden Hotel

Why We Chose It

Immerse yourself in Covent Garden at this hip, modern hotel, which is a favorite of the entertainment industry. 

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Gym, screening room, RikRak by Kit Kemp toiletries, children’s amenities, treatment rooms

Hotel Description

Covent Garden is perhaps London’s best neighborhood during Christmastime, with twinkling lights, its own tree, and shopping as far as the eye can see. Grab a room at the Covent Garden Hotel to make the most of the area’s holiday cheer. Dine at Brasserie Max or indulge in afternoon tea before heading out to explore. The chic hotel is also notably family friendly, perfect for travelers with little ones.

Corinthia London

Why We Chose It

This hotel pairs a prime location with a relaxed atmosphere and London’s best spa.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

ESPA Life spa with indoor pool, 24-hour gym, business center

Hotel Description

Unwind at Corinthia London, a luxury property just steps away from the Thames. The hotel goes all out at Christmas with festive menus in all the restaurants and a memorable themed afternoon tea, served in the dramatic Crystal Moon Lounge from November through January. The location, near Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus, is perfect for holiday shopping, but the hotel’s unparalleled spa might keep you indoors.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London

Why We Chose It

This Hyde Park-adjacent luxury hotel pulls out all the stops for the holidays and has a prime location for gift shopping.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Diptyque toiletries, indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, pillow menu

Hotel Description

The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, an elegant, well-appointed property, goes big at Christmastime and puts you in a perfect location for the holiday. It offers easy access to shopping at Harrods and in Knightsbridge, should you need to buy gifts for family and friends, and it’s right across the street from the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland celebrations. When you’re back at the hotel, warm up in the spa, or go for afternoon tea in The Rosebery. For an extra-special treat, reserve a table at the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, which features clever dishes based on the history of gastronomy.

The Twenty Two

Why We Chose It

This discreet boutique hotel feels like a hidden hideaway amid bustling central London. 

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort Fee: No
• Room Rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Butler service, private members’ club, complimentary gym passes

Hotel Description

The Twenty Two, a new secret on Grosvenor Square, is equal parts members club and hotel, with a creative vibe that will suit travelers looking for something special over the holiday season. Grab a hearty bite to eat at The Restaurant at the Twenty Two, which serves Mediterranean-inspired British cuisine, or sip a festive cocktail in the members club bar. The hotel’s location in the heart of Mayfair puts you within walking distance of the city’s best shopping, as well as the lights of Bond Street and Oxford Circus.

Final Verdict

London has several amazing Christmas hotels, all of which embrace the cheer and joy of the season. For a particularly festive stay, book into our top pick, The Connaught, to make this your best Christmas ever. The Goring also ensures guests will have a delightful holiday visit. For something more boutique — but no less magical — the Covent Garden Hotel boasts the city’s best address for Christmas shopping and West End shows. For those who want to really splurge, The Savoy makes for a memorable stay that marries history with high-end luxury. 

Know Before You Go

• Each London neighborhood has its own Christmas lights display, so be sure to explore beyond your immediate environs. Look for the best lights on New Bond Street, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Marylebone High Street, and around Covent Garden and Seven Dials.
• London has several outdoor ice-skating rinks during the holidays, including at Somerset House and the Queen's House in Greenwich. Don’t miss the new rink outside Battersea Power Station.
• Winter in London can be chilly and unpredictable, with the possibility of rain or even snow. It’s best to pack accordingly and to bring along lots of layers, especially if you’re going to spend time outside. Find more planning tips in our London Travel Guide.

How We Chose These Hotels

We evaluated around 20 hotels in London before choosing the best for Christmastime. We considered various elements, including the property’s reputation and quality of service, its location within the city, and notable amenities like restaurants, bars, and spas. We also specifically considered each hotel’s Christmas offerings and what kinds of experiences are available to guests around the holidays. In determining this list, we drew on personal experience, recent accolades, and independent guest reviews.