How to spend a festive weekend in Knightsbridge this Christmas

For the crafty, a festive weekend at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel is an ideal choice. Start with a wreath-making workshop to create a beautiful holiday centrepiece, then head out for a spot of Christmas shopping at some of Knightsbridge’s finest stores and independent boutiques. Afterwards, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at The Aubrey, offering a Japanese izakaya experience, or share a succulent Hereford prime rib at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. To round off the evening, sip on a festive cocktail inspired by the classic German jägertee, perfectly crafted to evoke the holiday spirit, before heading to your lavish suite for a peaceful night’s rest. This experience promises creativity, luxury and plenty of festive charm.

Start your evening with an early dinner at Clap, a Japanese wonderland that transports you to the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, or Studio Frantzén – which offers sweeping views of Knightsbridge from its home atop Harrods – serving exquisite Nordic gastronomy infused with selected Asian produce in a stylish setting. Once fully satiated, skip over to the majestic Royal Albert Hall for one of its enchanting festive concerts (including the must-experience Home Alone in Concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) that will set your festive spirits soaring and leave you feeling warm and fuzzy as you settle into the Knightsbridge Hotel for a soothing nightcap and cozy bed in the charming Kit Kemp-designed haven. Or if you’re not quite ready to see the night end, head to Bulgari Hotel London’s Nolita Social for live music and DJs in a setting with a New York state of mind.

If you’re after a truly opulent Knightsbridge Christmas, The Lanesborough offers an unforgettable experience. Make like Lord and Lady Bridgerton and stay at the opulent Regency hotel, where you’ll be immersed in festive splendour with sumptuous décor, seasonal displays, festive set menus and indulgent offer packages. Don’t miss its Bridgerton Festive Afternoon Tea, a collaboration with Netflix and Shondaland, complete with elegant pastries and cakes inspired by the series. With chauffeured shopping trips to Harrods, 24-hour dedicated butler service and a Christmas Gift Concierge Service in partnership with Harrods, it’s the perfect blend of festive charm and true British luxury.

There’s nothing quite like giving yourself the space to relax and rejuvenate, and The HVN wellbeing space is just the spot. Its legendary full-body exfoliation comes highly recommended and is the ideal way to kick off a peaceful walk among the trees in Hyde Park. Indulge in some self-care shopping at Holland & Barret on Brompton Road or head to Knightsbridge’s pharmacies, Viva Pharmacy, Hayatt Pharmacy and Knightsbridge Pharmacy, to fill your basket with luxury skincare before treating yourself to a delicious afternoon tea at Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley hotel, whose range of delicately decorative pastries look almost too good to eat. Book into the hotel to enjoy a range of indulgent guest perks, including temporary membership to its tranquil Surrenne Spa where you can enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment and take a well-deserved dip in its calming pool to relax your mind and body before the pizzazz of the festive season takes hold.

For those seeking pure extravagance, The Wellesley offers a luxurious stay complete with access to its exclusive heated Cigar Terrace, a sophisticated space with buttery leather seating in rich tones for an opulent evening of indulgence. Before settling down, guests can enjoy the convenience of skilled chauffeur with UKME, a six-star quality private concierge service, to escort them on a high-end shopping spree including stop-offs at Knightsbridge’s most luxury boutiques and flagships such as Dita, McLaren, GuessApple. With impeccable service and plush surroundings, this experience ensures a truly lavish festive weekend.

It’s always a treat to start the day with a delicious coffee and pastry. Head to refined French patisserie Paul, take your pick from its delectable selection and enjoy a spot of people-watching, or get your latte to-go and embark on a leisurely stroll through Knightsbridge, admiring its statues and blue plaques. Explore the art at Crane Kalman Gallery and visit nearby museums in Kensington, soaking up the rich history and culture that this storied area offers. Afterwards, indulge in Feast Off-Piste at The Berkeley‘s rooftop, which runs from 14 November to 1 January, for an authentic alpine dining experience in cosy ski gondolas, with a mouthwatering sharing-style set menu with Swiss raclette, tartiflette and indulgent chocolate fondue. With stunning views of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, it’s a festive culinary adventure not to be missed.

Words: Meehika Barua