7 Best Festive Hotels in London for Christmas
Wondering where to stay in London at Christmas? The possibilities are endless because there are so many festive hotels. London really goes all out for Christmas. It’s my favorite time of year there. You really can’t go wrong with where to stay as long as you’re near a tube station. This guide goes into the very best hotels in London for Christmas!
Also, even if you don’t stay at one of these hotels, I recommend visiting just for the Christmas atmosphere. Most have Christmas-themed afternoon tea, which gives you an excuse to visit as a non-guest! Also, a lot of them you can just admire for their festive displays.
Just a heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Your support helps me continue doing what I love ♡. Thank you! Read our Affiliate Disclosure here.
Best Area to Stay in London at Christmas
The best areas to stay in London at Christmas are Covent Garden, Mayfair (luxury), Knightsbridge, or Southbank.
My top pick is Covent Garden. You’ll find it beautifully decorated for Christmas with its giant tree, cobbled streets, and festive markets. Plus, you’re right in the heart of central London’s theatre, shopping, and dining scene, which is ideal for short stays. The only con is that this area can become very busy.
Read my full guide on the Best Area to Stay in London for First Time Visitors
7 Best Festive Hotels in London for Christmas
1. Corinthia
Corinthia is a 5-star hotel located centrally in London, moments away from Trafalgar Square and the River Thames.
At Christmas, the hotel feels especially festive. The lobby is beautifully decorated with a big tree and festive lights. I absolutely love their Christmas afternoon tea, so don’t miss it even if you aren’t a guest here. Its location makes it easy to walk to Covent Garden, Leicester Square, or the Southbank Christmas Market, so it’s a great base if you want to see the city’s lights by walking.
If you’re looking for festive hotels in London for Christmas then this is one of the best.
2. The Biltmore
The Biltmore Mayfair is located on Grosvenor Square, surrounded by Christmas lights and decorations. Last year, the hotel went all in on festive cheer, filling the lobby with teddy bears, baubles, and Christmas trees. It was one of the best Christmas displays in London
It’s a great choice if you like being close to Oxford Street and Bond Street for shopping, but still want somewhere calm to come back to afterwards.
The Terrace restaurant usually offers a festive menu, and the bar is a nice spot for a winter cocktail after a day out in the city.
3. Claridges
Claridge’s is one of London’s most famous hotels, and it’s iconic to stay here at Christmas. In fact, it’s one of the top hotels in London for Christmas. Every year, the hotel unveils a new designer Christmas tree, which has become a bit of an event in itself. Past ones have been created by names like Dior and Jimmy Choo.
The lobby decorations are always impressive but never feel too much, and there’s a steady festive atmosphere from the moment you walk in.
The Claridge’s Bar and The Foyer & Reading Room both serve seasonal menus, and the afternoon tea here is one of the best-known in the city. It’s a classic London Christmas experience, right in the heart of Mayfair.
4. The Milestone
The Milestone is a smaller, boutique-style hotel right next to Kensington Palace and Hyde Park, which makes it perfect if you want something a bit quieter but still central.
At Christmas, the hotel goes all out with festive decorations. The lobby is full of Christmas trees, wreaths, and twinkling lights. Their afternoon tea often comes with seasonal treats, and the staff make a point of creating a warm, personal touch that makes you feel at home.
It’s a great spot if you want to explore Hyde Park Winter Wonderland or wander around Knightsbridge for the Christmas lights.
5. Cheval Three Quays
While this one isn’t Christmas themed, per se, it’s a dream to stay here. I went with a couple of girlfriends since it’s a two-bedroom and is huge.
Although the price seems steep at first, if you split it with friends, it’s super affordable. We stayed in and had pizza and champagne in front of this gorgeous view.
6. The Ritz
The Ritz London is one of the most iconic hotels in the city, and at Christmas it is decorated from the outside to the inside. The gorgeous wreaths cover the pathway just outside the hotel next to Green Park Station.
The lobby is decorated with a huge Christmas tree, garlands, and lights, giving it that classic London holiday feel. Their afternoon tea is a holiday highlight, often featuring seasonal pastries and treats, and the restaurant serves a special festive menu.
Staying here puts you right near Green Park and Piccadilly, making it easy to walk to the city’s Christmas lights, shopping, and theatres.
7. The Connaught Hotel
The Connaught in Mayfair is a stylish, luxury hotel that feels especially welcoming at Christmas. The lobby is decorated with trees, wreaths, and subtle festive touches. Their restaurants and bars often have seasonal menus and cocktails.
It’s a great base if you want to explore Oxford Street, Bond Street, or the nearby Hyde Park Christmas markets.
For more reading, you may also like:
🏨 Best Area to Stay in London for First Time Visitors
🫖 Best Christmas Afternoon Teas in London
🎅 Festive Things to Do in London in December
⛄ Best Christmas Decorations in London
🎡 Guide to Winter Wonderland London
🇬🇧 Non-touristy things to do in London – from a local!
📆 A Locals Guide to 4 Days in London
🎄Best European Christmas Markets
