The Ultimate Guide to Visiting St James’s Park in London

Are you looking for festive things to do in London this Christmas?

From festive illuminations to late-night shopping, the city is truly a magical place in the winter months.

Check out our blog to discover 7 fun winter activities in the heart of the city…

Festive Things to Do in London | Light Trail

Step into Christmas with a luminous stroll through the city, where London's enchanting lights take centre stage.

Every year, London transforms into a magical light show, adorning every corner of the city.

This year, the festivities kick off on Thursday, 2nd November, with the illumination of Oxford and Carnaby Street. Explore the brilliantly-lit streets, and be captivated by the breathtaking displays.

Alternatively, embark on a guided Christmas lights bus tour, offering a 90-minute tour of the world-famous lights.

Enjoy Picturesque Views and Cosy Evenings

Experience riverside views from Coppa Club’s pop-up igloos.

Here, you can delight in an intimate space for you and your loved ones, enjoying delightful dinners and drinks as you cosy up under the stars.

Set with snug sheepskin blankets and a stunning vista of the London skyline, you can enjoy the Coppa Club in all weathers.

Sit back and sip on champagne while you indulge in festive snacks and sample dishes from an exclusive festive menu.

Winter Wonderland | Festive Things to Do in London

A trip to London during Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Hyde Park to experience the magic of Winter Wonderland.

The annual transformation of Hyde Park runs for six weeks, from mid November until the beginning of January.

This is the ultimate place for family and friends to enjoy when searching for festive things to do in london; from adrenaline-fuelled rides and attractions, to live entertainment and seasonal treats.

Open from 10am until 10pm, you can enjoy cosy pit bars, ice kingdoms, mulled wine, Bavarian beer and much more!

Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment.

Experience Christmas Shopping in London

There are a host of places for Christmas shopping around London; from designer stores to shopping centres.

Why not head over to Knightsbridge and experience the world-famous Harrods? The department store will be lit with 12,000 lights outside, while inside you’ll find luxurious decorations – and over 300 stores across the floors.

In the run-up to Christmas, Westfield are catering to the last-minute late night shoppers. Staying open until 10pm, you can find an array of shopping options, with over 500 shops between the White City and Stratford City centre.

From highstreet favourites to designer brands, you’ll be sure to find Christmas gifts for everyone.

Festive Things to Do in London | Theatre Performances

Embrace the festive fun with a selection of Christmas classics performed in various London theatres.

You'll find a myriad of performances throughout the city, from traditional favourites like "A Christmas Carol" and "The Snowman", to musicals such as "Frozen", as well as entertaining pantomimes.

The theatre offers a magical Christmas activity for all ages, allowing you to relax while enjoying the talents of entertainers.

Festive Things to Do in London | Culinary Delights at DUKES Hotel

Indulge in themed sweet treats and culinary delights with our festive afternoon tea here at DUKES Hotel.

Served daily between 12pm until 6pm, you can enjoy a fine selection of finger sandwiches and cakes in the comfort of our Drawing Room and Great British Restaurant.

Our festive menu in the Great British Restaurant is available from the 24th November until the 7th January, excluding Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.

Between 12pm until 9pm, you can choose from two or three courses of delectable dishes, each carefully curated by our talented kitchen staff.

Christmas at DUKES Hotel London

After a day of exploring London's Christmas wonders, relax at DUKES Hotel London, situated in the heart of St James.

Our hotel offers sophistication and luxury with attentive staff to meet your every need. Choose from modern bedrooms or thoughtfully-designed suites to ensure your London escape is exceptional.

Throughout the festive season, our hotel will be adorned with enchanting decorations to create the perfect backdrop for your Christmas celebration.

To learn more about our festivities or book your stay, please reach out to a member of our team. Alternatively, you can explore our previous blog on planning your staff Christmas party.

Are you in charge of planning a magical staff Christmas party?

Look no further than DUKES Hotel London!

From private dining areas to enchanting Christmas packages, discover our festive offerings to begin planning your seasonal celebration.

Check out our blog to find out more…

DUKES Hotel London | Staff Christmas Party

Nestled in the heart of the sophisticated St James, Mayfair, DUKES Hotel is the perfect setting for your staff Christmas party.

With our dedicated and enthusiastic staff at your service, we’re committed to ensuring your celebration is truly exceptional.

As we dive into the festive season with our Christmas offerings, we have something to suit all types of celebrations, including exclusive deals for those looking to make the most of this special occasion.

Corporate Christmas Parties at DUKES Hotel London

Step into an elegant winter wonderland here at DUKES Hotel.

With enchanting surroundings and seasonal culinary delights, we’ve crafted our Christmas package to provide you with an unforgettable Christmas party.

Our events team will assist you in planning out the perfect evening for you and your colleagues, to help you celebrate the festive season in style.

Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a large affair, our festive package can be tailored to suit your needs.

For smaller party sizes, you can indulge in our festive menu within our Great British Restaurant.

Served between noon until 9:30pm, our offerings include 2 courses for £49 or 3 courses for £65.

Private Dining Options

We have a variety of elegant private dining rooms, each of which we'll transform into your very own wonderland for the occasion.

With a choice from delectable British dishes, an extensive wine selection, and delicious crafted cocktails, it will truly be a staff Christmas party to remember!

Set against the tranquil Little St James’s Street, our Sheridan Suite offers a stunning mahogany table, suited for intimate dining affairs. This space is fully air-conditioned, and can fit 12 guests for dining!

Our Event Space

Our historic Drawing Room caters for larger group sizes who’re looking for a more casual atmosphere.

Flushed with natural light, this room flows into the beautiful conservatory, which leads into our exclusive Cognac and Cigar garden.

Accommodating 35 guests, you can hire the Drawing Room exclusively to host your magical staff Christmas Party.

Alternatively, with a capacity of 80 guests, the St James Suite may be better suited for you. This elegant, spacious venue can be used for fine dining, cocktail parties, and much more.

Providing you with a private space to celebrate the festive season, you’ll experience exclusivity and elegance in the St James Suite.

Make a Night of your Staff Christmas Party

The experience doesn’t have to end when the music stops!

Why not make a night of your much-anticipated staff Christmas party, and book an overnight stay in one of our luxurious rooms?

With exclusive room rates for booking your event space, we aim to make your stay memorable.

Each of our guest rooms feature a stunning marble en suite bathroom and timeless classic decor, promising a restful nights’ sleep after an evening of dancing.

The following morning, reminisce on last night’s party as you delight in our Great British Restaurant, where you can divulge in a scrumptious full English breakfast — available from 7am - 11am.

Why not round off your stay with a stroll around Mayfair, and experience the stunning scenery that London has to offer?

Book Your Unforgettable Staff Christmas Party

Get ahead of the game and treat your staff to a memorable Christmas party at DUKES Hotel London.

With a range of event spaces and Christmas offerings available, what are you waiting for?

To begin planning this year's festive celebrations, please contact a dedicated member of our team.

Alternatively, why not take a look at our current offers?

Are you in need of a little retail therapy?

When you’ve had a busy week, sometimes all you need is to escape to the city for a weekend of excellent shopping (and cocktails back at the hotel after, of course!).

So, we’re sharing our ultimate guide to shopping in Mayfair, to help you start planning your trip early…

Why Choose to Go Shopping in Mayfair?

Nestled in the heart of London's vibrant landscape, Mayfair finds itself amidst the bustling energy of the City of Westminster.

Defined by its proximity to some of London's most iconic streets — Park lane, Piccadilly, Regent Street, and Oxford Street — it’s one of the most prestigious shopping destinations in the UK.

From the high-end boutiques of Burlington Arcade to the charming allure of Shepherd Market, you’ll be in haute-couture-heaven from the moment you step into the district.

Just some of our favourite shops include:

Fortnum and Mason

With everything you could possibly need, from delicious snacks to diamond-studded jewellery, a visit to Fortnum & Mason is a delightful treat for those visiting London.

Splurge on a little something — be it chocolates or a new scarf — and carry it away in the iconic turquoise bag that’ll be sure to bring a smile to your face every time you re-use it.

The Burlington Arcade

Inside the Burlington Arcade, you’ll find exquisite stores just waiting for you to be spoiled and pampered…

From Michael Rose to Manolo Blahnik, it’s brimming with beautiful boutique stores, filled with treasures of every desire.

Pearls for your ears, diamonds for your feet, cashmere for your back — the jewellery, clothes, accessories, and shoes are breathtaking, and will certainly hit the spot when it comes to retail therapy.

Paxton and Whitfield

Cheese might not be top of your list when shopping in Mayfair, but it should be!

Paxton and Whitfield offers a mesmerising display of all kinds of cheese; perfect for taking home and using for meals, cheese boards, picnics, and even fondues.

And, if cheese is your kryptonite, you could even consider joining the Paxton’s cheese club.

Designer Brands

Fall in love with your wardrobe all over again, by treating yourself to staple items from the most famous brand flagships, such as:

• Gucci;
• Louis Vuitton;
• Chanel;
• Hermes;
• Dior;
• And more.

Sophisticated and stylish, these are more than just shops; they’re experiences — and ones you’ll likely never forget, as you make your way through Mayfair’s most luxurious names.

Luxury Homeware

From cushions and candles to wine glasses and vases, Mayfair is bursting with exquisite homeware stores.

So, why not commemorate your weekend away in London by choosing some items to give your home a little lift?

Thomas Goode is a luxurious household name, offering glassware, china, and silverware. And, with two royal warrants to supply the British royal household, you too can live like royalty.

For soft furnishings such as bedding and throws, Frette offers classic, timeless designs that’ll elevate the rooms in your home and wow any guests.

Arts and Antiques

If vintage is more your vibe, Mayfair has you covered there, too.

With plenty of charming antique stores housing gorgeous, dated items — such as the Mayfair Gallery — you’ll be certain to find a piece or two amongst the troves of treasure.

Or, if you’re looking for gorgeous artwork, Mayfair is home to an array of exceptional galleries, displaying elegant paintings and sculptures on every wall.

For quirky and bright, we recommend Maddox Gallery, while for classics we suggest Clarendon Fine Art.

“Wine” Down After Shopping in Mayfair

After spending a day shopping in Mayfair, we know just how tired your feet will be!

Head back to DUKES London, and we’ll look after your every need, from an exquisite wine dinner in GBR to refreshing cocktails in DUKES Bar.

And, our stylish rooms are so comfortable, you can sink into a peaceful slumber before rejoining us the next morning for a hearty breakfast to refuel.

If you’d like to book your much-needed weekend getaway, please contact a member of our team.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for green spaces to rejuvenate after shopping in Mayfair, why not take a look at our previous blog to discover our ultimate guide to visiting St James’s Park?

Now that you’ve booked your stay with us here at DUKES, are you looking for inspiration for some of the best days out in London?

If so, you’ve come to the right place.

In this blog, we’re sharing our favourite places to play, learn, explore and eat in England’s historic capital:

Play | Best Days Out in London

Whether you’re 7 or 77, no trip to the big city would be complete without visiting some of our world-renowned

Royal Parks

Described as places of discovery, imagination and wonder, these glorious green spaces are free for all to enjoy and easily accessible using public transport.

With 14 Royal Park playgrounds, children of all ages and abilities can have the best day out in London, whether that be spent making mud pies, exploring the timber trails, or reaching for the sky on the swings.

The

Diana Memorial Playground

The Royal Parks make a conscious effort to ensure their green spaces are accessible to all. The

Gloucester Gate playground

Learn | Best Days Out in London

If a day of play isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of museums to visit in the capital, providing a fun and engaging learning experience for both adults and children alike.

The

Natural History Museum

Based in Covent Garden, the

London Transport Museum

If you’re more interested in science than history, look no further than the

Science Museum

Explore | Best Days Out in London

For any young (or young-at-heart!) explorers in your party, the

Great DUKES Adventure Scavenger Hunt

Leading you and your loved ones on a fascinating journey through the winding streets of the big city, unveiling iconic landmarks and hidden gems, this is one scavenger hunt that will leave you feeling deeply satisfied and accomplished.  

Your activity kit will feature a map, an instant camera, and of course, our adorable mascot DUKESY.

Eat | Best Days Out in London

After such busy days playing, learning and exploring, your stomach will surely be rumbling!

Fear not: here at DUKES London, we have different dining options to suit every taste and mood. For evening meals at

Great British Restaurant

If you return to the hotel earlier than anticipated in need of a pre-dinner pick-me-up, why not indulge in one of our decadent

afternoon teas

If you haven’t booked your stay with us yet, what are you waiting for?

Make your reservation now

For those who may need further convincing, you can learn more about why DUKES is the best luxury family hotel for your family city break from our recent blog.