How to Visit London During the Holidays-Christmas Markets and Decked-out Hotels Included

"Sipping mulled wine as the Bond Street light installations flicker on, tucking into a festive Sunday roast at a neighborhood pub, picking up Christmas crackers at Fortnum & Mason, and stopping for a photo in front of the tree in Covent Garden are all quintessential holiday experiences. The British capital is at its most cheerful from late November through the New Year."

"Ben Malpass, former head concierge at The Hari London and current managing director of Liberty Rock Concierge, describes the atmosphere as "buzzing," adding that "the city is packed with tourists and locals alike enjoying all the festive events and rushing to finish their Christmas shopping." Another local expert, Alan Noone-who serves as the executive head concierge at The Stafford London-says that this period is one where London "feels both classic and contemporary, full of tradition and modernity, inviting all to revel in its holiday magic.""

London is especially lively during the holiday season, peaking from late November through the New Year. Seasonal activities include sipping mulled wine beneath Bond Street lights, enjoying festive Sunday roasts in neighborhood pubs, buying Christmas crackers at Fortnum & Mason, and photographing the Covent Garden tree. The city hosts major festive attractions such as Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with markets, rides, ice skating, and seasonal food stalls. The streets and department stores—from Piccadilly Circus to Harrods—are elaborately decorated. Visitors can also skate at Somerset House and experience a mix of tradition and modern holiday events across the city.

Read at Travel + Leisure