I’ve lived in London for 10 years and have watched it change and grow. Christmas time, in particular, has become a highlight in the UK capital, with each area boasting beautiful lights and decorations from November. The brands also get creative with their storefronts, especially in Mayfair where many luxurious and glamorous stores are located. That’s why I’ve designed this Christmas walk to help you soak in all the festive magic Mayfair has to offer.
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON invites you to follow this route in 11 stops and enjoy every festive highlight!
1. Piccadilly, Fortnum & Mason
We’ll start this Christmas walk at Piccadilly Circus, easily accessible by tube. Take Piccadilly Avenue and head towards Fortnum & Mason.
This renowned department store displays a giant advent calendar on its facade each year. It’s unmissable and quite elegant, especially at night.
If you get closer to the entrance, you’ll discover the storefronts, which feature new displays and themes each year – usually automated, they capture the interest of passerby, especially the youngest visitors.
But the magic doesn’t stop there! Step inside Fortnum’s to find an incredible Christmas installation. Located at the heart of the store, right in the center of the staircase, it’s the star attraction! This year, you will be mesmerised by the shimmering festive pinecones seemingly floating through the air – it is truly a sight to behold!
And of course, Fortnum & Mason is a dream destination for Christmas shopping! From their iconic hampers brimming with scrumptious treats to their irresistible biscuit tins (my favourites!), and exquisite Christmas and home decorations, there’s so much to explore. With four levels of gift ideas, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list!
2. Piccadilly, the Burlington Arcade
Once you’re done with exploring Fortnum’s, let’s go to the Burlington Arcade (on the other side of the road, next to the Royal Academy of Arts.
With its timeless British charm, this covered shopping arcade is such a great way to start the festive season! You’ll be welcomed by Ladurée at the entrance and the Burlington Beadles (I just learned that’s what they’re called while writing this post!).
The sparkling decorations, twinkling Christmas trees, and festive music make strolling through this arcade feel truly magical. Take your time to soak it all in – browse the luxurious brands, grab a coffee, or even get your shoes polished. It’s all part of the experience!
3. New Bond Street
At the end of Burlington Arcade, turn left and you’ll step onto New Bond Street, famous for its array of luxurious and glamorous fashion and jewellery brands!
Explore the dazzling Christmas displays of Mayfair’s finest brands on this famous street!
Stop for a coffee at Ralph Lauren, admire the festive decorations at Tiffany’s, Cartier, and Dior, and finish your stroll at Hermes. This is the perfect time of year to wander these streets. Make sure to visit at night as well when the Christmas lights and decorations truly come to life!
4. Annabel’s
After reaching the Hermes store, turn left onto Bruton Street (by the way, take a moment to admire the charming British Coach and Horses Pub as you stroll by and why not pop in for a drink if you fancy?).
Annabel’s is a real showstopper in Mayfair! This London club’s giant decorations never fail to catch the eye of both tourists and locals. Their Christmas displays are absolutely stunning, making it a must-see both during the day and at night. Look at this beautiful magical peacock!
Take your time to admire it – and if you can, try to avoid the peak hours when the crowd can be overwhelming (I came either early morning or after 7pm).
5. The Connaught
From Annabel’s, walk north on Berkeley Square, then turn left onto Mount Street and continue straight until you reach The Connaught on Carlos Place. This is my absolute favourite place in Mayfair!
There, you can enjoy a festive dessert at The Connaught Patisserie, soak in the street holiday lights, and step inside the hotel to admire their Christmas tree!
Connaught Village is a buzzing spot in Mayfair, and it’s full of festive charm during Christmas. Absolutely perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
6. Hedonism Wines
After visiting The Connaught, turn right onto Mount Row and walk to the end of the street. On your right, you’ll spot Hedonism Wines, famous for its large choice of wines and spirits …and also for its stunning Christmas displays!
This year’s highlight is an incredible giant gingerbread house advent calendar. A true showstopper that’s interactive too! Everyone can open the little gingerbread houses to discover a delightful Christmas treat inside.
It’s a magical experience that only London knows how to offer.
7. Neill Strain Floral Couture
In front of Hedonism Wines, there’s Neill Strain Floral Couture shop featuring luxurious floral bouquets and stunning Christmas decorations.
It’s such a magical spot for Christmas shopping and soaking up the festive vibes!
Everywhere you turn, there are gorgeous decorations and flowers, making it a total treat for your eyes! This is such a gorgeous place to browse for flowers, little gifts or souvenirs.
8. Koyn restaurant
Continue a bit further, then turn left onto Grosvenor Street to see the cutest Christmas car in London, right in front of KOYN!
I discovered it this year and was so amazed by the stunning Christmas decorations both inside and outside this cute little mini! If you’re open to trying Asian cuisine, you also have the opportunity to step inside Koyn (I don’t know the place yet but will hopefully try it soon).
9. The Claridge’s Hotel
Return to Davies Street, turn left, then right onto Brook Street: admire the outdoor Christmas decorations at the Claridge’s first, then step inside to see the Christmas Tree which has been decorated by Sir Paul Smith this year!
Claridge’s is always at its best at Christmas, and it’s such a pleasure to step inside and contemplate the beautiful Christmas decorations and the luxurious, festive vibes!
10. The Twenty Two Hotel
Once out of the Claridge’s, head left towards Grosvenor Square, and walk by until you see the Twenty Two Hotel. I came across another hotel on this walking route while exploring Mayfair, and I’m so glad I did!
Some people on Instagram mentioned they were put off by the black bow (which is often associated with sadness), which I totally understand, but I personnally found it to be quite original and elegant. What do you think?
11. The Ever After Garden
This is our last stop in Mayfair, and certainly not the least. The Ever After Garden is in Grosvenor Square. it is a breathtaking tribute to love, loss, and hope. Created in support of the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, this luminous installation shines with thousands of glowing white roses, each carrying a personal dedication.
I loved walking through this peaceful sanctuary in the heart of London – it’s such a moving place and a magical way to support life-saving cancer research and care. It is also magical at night.
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All these places have been featured on my instagram account, feel free to have a look and subscribe!
You’ll find more ideas on how to explore London at Christmas here!
Fortnum’s and Mason: 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER.
Website.
Burlington Arcade: 51 Piccadilly, London W1J 0QJ.
Website.
Ralph Lauren coffee stand: 1, New, Bond St, London W1S 3RL.
Website.
Annabel’s: 46 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AT.
Website.
The Connaught: The Connaught, Carlos Pl, London W1K 2AL.
Website.
Hedonism Wines: 3-7 Davies St, London W1K 3DJ.
Website.
Neill Strain Floral Couture: 11 W Halkin St, Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8JL.
Website.
Koyn restaurant: 38 Grosvenor St, London W1K 4QA.
Website.
Claridge’s Hotel: Brook St, London W1K 4HR.
Website.
The Twenty Two Hotel: 22 Grosvenor Sq, London W1K 6LF.
Website.
The Ever After Garden: W1K, Grosvenor Sq, London W1K 6LD.
Website.
