Celebrate the festive season at Strand Palace, ideally located in the heart of London right by the twinkling lights of Covent Garden, just moments from the Southbank’s festive markets and near Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.

1 - Covent Garden Piazza

Located just a short walk from Strand Palace, Covent Garden transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland each year. The cobbled streets come alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and street performers that add to the charm. The main piazza is especially captivating, featuring a towering Christmas tree, as well as market stalls selling unique gifts, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. The area also hosts a variety of live performances, from Christmas carollers to world-class theatre shows, like The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House. For those looking to enjoy a festive meal or drink, Covent Garden offers a wealth of options, including cozy cafés and top-tier restaurants.

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2 - Winter Wonderland

A short trip from Strand Palace, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of London’s most iconic Christmas attractions. This festive extravaganza brings together a winter fair, ice skating rink, circus shows, and thrilling rides, making it a great spot for both families and couples. You can shop for unique gifts in the Christmas markets, indulge in mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the magical winter atmosphere. For those seeking a unique experience, the Ice Kingdom is a must-see: a dazzling exhibition of ice sculptures, beautifully lit and sculpted into festive scenes. From the traditional Christmas markets to the fun of the fairground rides, Winter Wonderland offers something for everyone, and it’s a short journey from Strand Palace by public transport or even a pleasant winter stroll.

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3 - Southbank Centre

Just a short walk across the river from Strand Palace, the Southbank Centre becomes a hub for festive activity during the Christmas season. With a stunning view of the Thames and the London Eye, this cultural venue hosts Christmas markets, live performances, and seasonal events. The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers a charming selection of artisanal goods and festive foods, while you can also enjoy a variety of concerts, theatre productions, and dance performances. With its vibrant atmosphere and picturesque riverside setting, Southbank Centre is the perfect spot to soak up some holiday spirit while taking in the beauty of London’s cultural scene. Whether you’re enjoying a festive show or exploring the Christmas market, it’s a local gem to add to your itinerary.

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4 - Snow Palace Afternoon Tea

For a truly unique Christmas experience, indulge in a Snow Palace Afternoon Tea at the iconic Strand Palace Hotel. This festive twist on the classic British tradition of afternoon tea. Served daily in The Palace Tea Parlour at 12:30 and 3pm, both adult and children’s menus feature indulgent festive-themed sweet treats, savouries and scones on an eye-catching tiered Snowman. Snow Palace Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing or to simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends and family. Don't forget to snap some photos of the live ballerina on select weekends in November and Father Christmas on select weekends in December.

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5 - SKATE at Somerset House

Somerset House, a short 4 minute walk from Strand Palace, is home to one of London’s most picturesque ice-skating rinks, which takes on an extra layer of magic during Christmas. Set against the backdrop of the stunning neoclassical architecture and twinkling lights, the rink is a top destination for festive fun. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a first timer, the rink offers a fantastic atmosphere to enjoy winter sports. For an extra special experience, you can book a private skate session or sip hot chocolate in the rink side café while watching skaters glide by. The Christmas spirit is in full swing here, and it’s a must-visit activity for anyone staying at Strand Palace looking for some wintertime fun in central London.

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6 -Trafalgar Square Christmas Market

Trafalgar Square, just around the corner from the Strand Palace, hosts one of London’s most beloved Christmas markets. With the iconic Christmas tree at its centre — a gift from Norway — the square becomes a festive hub full of charm. The Christmas market is filled with traditional wooden chalets offering an array of handmade gifts, seasonal food, mulled wine, and festive treats. Visitors can enjoy browsing the artisanal stalls, or simply soak in the holiday atmosphere while admiring the lights and decorations. The market is also home to live performances and events, adding to the lively vibe of the area. Whether you’re looking for unique presents or a place to enjoy some Christmas cheer, Trafalgar Square’s market is an unmissable stop for holiday visitors.

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7 - Christmas Day Lunch at Strand Palace

For guests staying at Strand Palace, enjoying a Christmas Day lunch in the hotel is a convenient and luxurious experience. The hotel’s festive dining options offer a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, including roast turkey, seasonal vegetables, and delicious desserts like Christmas pudding. The festive atmosphere, complete with Christmas decorations and holiday music, makes it a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re spending Christmas with family or friends, the hotel’s attentive service and delicious seasonal menu make it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a stress-free, festive meal in a central location.

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8 - Theatre in the West End

Staying at Strand Palace puts you in the heart of London’s vibrant theatre district, with many of the West End’s top shows offering special Christmas performances. From classic Christmas musicals like The Nutcracker to newer productions, there’s no shortage of festive entertainment options. Popular shows include Les Misérables, The Lion King, and the iconic A Christmas Carol, offering something for every taste. The West End comes alive with holiday cheer, and booking a Christmas performance is a fantastic way to spend an evening in London. With the Strand Palace located so close, you’ll have easy access to the best theatres, making this a must-do experience for the season.

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9 - Christmas Lights at Regent Street

A short walk or tube ride from Strand Palace, Regent Street is renowned for its spectacular Christmas lights. Every year, the street is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a dazzling display that stretches from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus. The lights take on a theme each year, adding to the magic and charm of the city. Shopping along Regent Street becomes a festive experience, as the holiday decorations create a wonderful atmosphere for those looking to pick up gifts or enjoy the seasonal window displays. Don’t forget to snap a photo under the shimmering lights for a perfect London Christmas memory!

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10. St. Martin-in-the-Fields Christmas Concerts

Located just a stone’s throw from Strand Palace, St. Martin-in-the-Fields is one of London’s most iconic churches, offering a variety of beautiful Christmas concerts throughout the holiday season. The concerts feature renowned choirs, orchestras, and soloists, providing a magical soundtrack to your Christmas experience in London. Whether you choose a traditional carol concert or a performance of Handel’s Messiah, the acoustics of this historic church will leave you spellbound. It’s the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit and enjoy some holiday music in one of the city’s most beautiful settings.

These 10 activities provide a perfect blend of classic Christmas traditions and festive fun, all within easy reach of the Strand Palace Hotel. Whether you're looking to shop, skate, or indulge in delicious seasonal treats, London offers an unforgettable Christmas experience.