A nip in the air and twinkling lights all around the capital can only mean one thing - that Christmas is a magical time of year to be visiting London with your loved one!
After all, tis the season of festive frivolity, and the city is buzzing with excitement as the countdown to Christmas begins.
Add some sparkle to your winter romance this year with our guide to Romantic Christmas Dates in the capital:
Festive Afternoon Tea, The Savoy
The Savoy takes on an extra layer of magic this Christmas. Its festive afternoon tea is planned with such finesse, every little detail is perfect as you enter the Thames Foyer of the hotel.
The Traditional High Tea includes festive favourites such as Coronation Turkey Sandwiches on Cranberry Bread, and Oak Smoked Salmon with Lemon Butter on Multi-Grain Bread. However, it’s in the sweet delicacies as to where the Christmas twist to The Savoy’s High Tea truly stands out.
You’ll be squabbling with your loved one over the Chocolate Christmas Tree with Peppermint Ganache and the extremely more-ish, bright red, Rudolf’s Nose. But worry not, there’s plenty to try as you sit back, relax, and absorb the festive atmosphere with your glass of Louis Roederer, NV Champagne.
For those with specific dietary requirements, The Savoy also offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free alternatives, ensuring no one misses out on the any festive fun.
Christmas at The Savoy
www.TheSavoyLondon.com
02078 364 343
ICE BAR, Mayfair
At a romantically frosty -5 degrees Celsius, the ICE BAR is a sensory experience in London where all the walls, bar, tables (and even your own cocktail glass!) is made from crystal clear ice.
Don’t be too put off by drop in temperature though! You’ll each be given a warm cloak and pair of gloves to put on before you head inside. Look out for the impressive sculptures – there’s even an ice throne to take pictures on, so get practising your Ice Queen glares while you sip on a Viking Bellini.
There’s also plenty of time to snuggle up and keep warm after the icy experience. The bar neighbours an impressive Fire Bar with a dramatic backdrop of real flames. The bartenders are more than happy to whip up a creation of their own, or you can choose a drink from their extensive list of cocktails too.
We’d also recommend sharing a few bites in the bar from Yuu Kitchen. The Soy & Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Baos were a firm favourite, as was the flavoursome wok fried Sweet & Sticky Eggplant.
ICE BAR London
www.IceBarLondon.com
02074 788 910
Cedar & Spruce, Hyde Park
If you’re celebrating the winter festivities at London’s annual Winter Wonderland, you must pop into Cedar & Spruce Bar + Kitchen, headed up by chef Ani Arora, who previously worked with the Oberoi Hotel Group.
The restaurant is set in a trio of rustic, glass-like tepees, nestled in the Bavarian village with cosy fire pits and large communal tables. Each dish is a twist on traditional festive favourites. Starters include Cranberry & Brie Wontons with Chilli Cranberry Jam, and Game Samosas with Apple and Anise Chutney. Mains are more traditional, however, and include a Turkey Roulade with all the trimmings or a Classic Vegetable Pie with Spicy Gravy for vegetarians.
For those who just want to enjoy the bar area, there’s also an impressive collection of mulled wine, cider and craft beers to sip on, as you watch the hustle and bustle outside.
Cedar & Spruce is the perfect spot to take a break from the thrilling rides that have seen Hyde Park Winter Wonderland become a landmark event for visitors.
Cedar & Spruce Bar & Kitchen
www.HydeParkWinterWonderland.com/CedarSpruce
Instagram: @CedarAndSpruceBK
Ice Skating, The Queen's House Greenwich
It’s fair to say no Christmas is complete without skating in some of the capital’s most cherished venues. This year, skate hand in hand with your date at London’s newest Ice Rink! The Queen’s House is a UNESCO world Heritage Site that boasts beautiful surroundings of the Royal Museum. If you visit at night, it’ll be lit up in striking colours providing you with the ultimate festive backdrop.
Don’t forget to grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate before or after your session. Whether you pirouette like Torvill & Dean or slip around like Bambi, it’s guaranteed fun for this festive date!
Queen's House Ice Rink
www.Rmg.co.uk
02088 584 422