The Most Festive London Hotels to Visit Around Christmas

Nowhere is quite as magical as London around the holidays. Every year, there's a towering Christmas tree in Covent Garden, a spectacular light display at Wander Kew Gardens, and wintry carnival rides and games in Hyde Park. But the holiday cheer can also be found in some of London’s best hotels.

Festive hotel offerings range from themed afternoon teas to special meals and decorations galore. Read on to discover our picks for the London hotels that go above and beyond for the Christmas season.

Best London Hotels at Christmastime

• Editor’s Pick: The Connaught
• The Langham
• The Goring
• The Stafford
• The Rubens at the Palace
• The Dorchester
• The Savoy
• Claridge's Hotel
• The Mayfair Townhouse
• Covent Garden Hotel
• Corinthia London
• Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
• 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

The Connaught is hands down one of the best hotels in London. Every year, it 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 out 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 at The Connaught on Christmas Day, a horse-drawn carriage ride awaits.

The Langham

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 programs

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 or grab a table at Artesian, an award-winning bar with both classic and custom cocktails. The on-site restaurants start offering special holiday meals starting in early November.

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, 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 beautiful 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

In-room Nespresso machines, gym, 17th-century wine cellar 

Hotel Description

London is notorious for attracting a holiday crowd, but The Stafford — set in St. James’s just off Green Park — is the perfect holiday haven. The hotel greets guests with lights, Christmas trees, and seasonal decor everywhere you look. Whether you're sipping on mulled wine at The American Bar or indulging in a delicious meal at The Game Bird, a stay at The Stafford will leave you feeling warm and merry.

The Rubens at the Palace

Why We Chose It

This heritage property offers exquisite accommodations and fine dining in the heart of the city, right on Buckingham Palace Road.

Key Specs

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

Notable Amenities

In-room spa treatments, food and cocktail experiences, and personalized fitness programs

Hotel Description

You could spend weeks — months or years, even — exploring London, so staying somewhere in the heart of things will help you squeeze a good amount into your limited time in the city. The Rubens at the Palace is across the street from Buckingham Palace, which means you'll be a short walk from Westminster Cathedral, Hyde Park, and the banks of the River Thames. The old-school hotel, decorated in deep hues and rich velvets, celebrates the holidays with an annual "Winter Wonderland" afternoon tea. The experience includes a glass of mulled wine and Christmas-themed bites.

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

Chauffeur-driven luxury cars, sauna, gym

Hotel Description

Expect nothing less than sheer glamour 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. Indulge in afternoon tea or the mini mince pies at Vesper Bar. 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 since 1889, is one of London’s most historic hotels. 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 as well as special dinner menus on select evenings. Enjoy a festive cocktail at the American Bar after spending the day shopping for Christmas gifts in nearby Covent Garden.

Claridge's Hotel

Why We Chose It

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

Key Specs

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

Notable Amenities

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 holiday experience, time your visit to be at Claridge's on Christmas Day, when Santa pays a visit. The hotel’s Mayfair location, a quick walk to Regent Street and Oxford Circus, ensures access to light displays 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

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, a favorite in 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 the holidays, 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 one of London’s best spas.

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 for the holidays with festive menus in the restaurants and afternoon tea served in the dramatic Crystal Moon Lounge. 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

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, 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 serves 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, welcome drinks on arrival

Hotel Description

The Twenty Two, a hidden gem 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 on-site restaurant, 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 hotels to visit during the holidays, 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. 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

• Most London neighborhoods have their own Christmas lights displays, 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 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 bring along lots of layers, especially if you’re going to spend time outside.

How We Chose These Hotels

We evaluated around 20 hotels in London before choosing the best to visit during the holidays. 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 holiday offerings and the experiences available to guests during this season. In determining this list, we drew on personal experience, recent accolades, and independent guest reviews.