Lights twinkling on Oxford Street, Christmas markets scented by mulled wine and couples holding hands on ice rinks: any Londoner will tell you that their city comes alive at Christmastime. In fact, it’s our favourite time of year to be in the capital. There’s a buzz in the air (as well as a nip), with everyone seemingly in a good mood. Pubs are full to bursting, cheesy Christmas hits blast out on the radio in taxis, and someone might even give up their seat for you on the Tube if you’ve got too many shopping bags (but probably not). And there’s a seemingly endless list of festive fun to be had, whether that’s watching The Muppet Christmas Carol for the hundredth time at a pop-up cinema, riding the Big Wheel at Winter Wonderland, or shouting ‘he’s behind you’ at an ex-Eastenders star doing pantomime on the West End. Add in the crisp evenings perfect for strolling along the South Bank with a hot chocolate in hand, the glow of fairy lights reflected in the Thames, and it really is – to quote Andy Williams – the most wonderful time of the year. And especially in London.
Where to Stay in London this Christmas: Pubs with Rooms, Full of Festive Charm
Yet those who don’t live in our beloved city needn’t miss out. In fact, it’s a great time to plan a city break, staying in one of Cubitt House’s three pubs with rooms. Perfectly located in the centre of London, each one is the ideal base for exploring the best that the city has to offer at this time of year, whether you choose The Princess Royal in Notting Hill, The Orange in Belgravia or The Grazing Goat in Marylebone. Each is beautifully decorated, with boutique style interiors inspired by the local area and utilising furnishings and décor sourced from British artisans.
The Orange Pub & Boutique Hotel: Shop, Stroll and Stay in Belgravia
For those looking for the quintessential Christmas shopping experience, The Orange is ideal. A stone’s throw from the high-end shopping streets of Belgravia and Knightsbridge, you can do all your present-buying from cute boutique shops (or the designer ones, if you’ve got the budget). A trip to Harrods is a must – even if it’s just to see the famous shop windows – though we do recommend heading to the basement for decorations and souvenirs galore. And don’t forget the kids toy floor, which will appease any weary little shoppers. Slightly further afield you will find the ice rink at the Natural History Museum, which is always a good idea – even if you are like Bambi on ice.
Boutique Hotel Comfort Near London’s Most Iconic Christmas Shopping Streets & Hyde Park
Head to The Grazing Goat if you want to be close to the action in Hyde Park, with romantic walking trails galore, not to mention the extremely popular Winter Wonderland, with its ice rink, German beer hall, fairground rides and traditional market stalls. It’s also the prime location for the big department stores of Oxford Street, including Selfridge’s and John Lewis, or Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly, plus all that our delightful British high street has to offer. Shopaholics, this is the place for you. And when your arms are laden with shopping bags and you’ve had your fill of festive crowds, there’s nothing better than returning to the calm of The Grazing Goat, where dinner and a glass of mulled wine are waiting.
A Dreamy December Stay in Notting Hill’s Most Charming Boutique Pub
Notting Hill is one of the city’s most beloved and famous neighbourhoods for a reason, and it’s got a really magical vibe in December. Those staying at The Princess Royal can head to the Portobello Road Market for antiques and other goodies (it’s great for buying presents), or maybe take in a festive favourite at the beautiful Electric Cinema – one of the oldest in the UK. We also just recommend wandering the streets admiring the fairy lights on the pastel-hued houses, it’s truly one of the prettiest spots in the city. You’re also handily located on the Central Line, which means you can get in to central or across to East London quickly and easily.
Festive Menu in London? Think Roasts, Mulled Wine and a Bed Upstairs
The best part of staying in one of our pubs for a cosy Christmas city break? The menu, of course! Think seasonal favourites and hearty pub fare for the festive season, including Pies, Roasts and classic snacks like Scotch Eggs, Sausage Rolls and even Oysters, for when you’re feeling particularly celebratory. And don’t forget the drinks too: we’ll start warming the mulled wine for you now. There’s something really comforting about being able to just wander up to bed after a restorative dinner here and a few nightcaps, before being able to pop back down again for breakfast the next day. It feels indulgent but homely all at once – exactly what a festive escape should be.
Book your festive city break at The Orange, The Princess Royal or The Grazing Goat now to avoid disappointment. With limited rooms available and London at its most charming, there’s no better time to make a weekend of it.
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