Christmas time in London allows us to be childlike for just a little while as the city becomes drenched in twinkling lights. With an endless number of Christmas markets, light trails, and festive food offerings, one thing is certain – there’s something for everyone here this winter.
We’ve selected five unique and exciting festive experiences that you may not have heard of but will be sure to make this Christmas one to remember.
Home Alone with a live orchestra
Experience a holiday classic like you’ve never seen it before, as Home Alone is transformed into a live concert with an orchestra at the iconic Royal Alber Hall.
A beloved comedy classic is shown on a big screen and features renowned composer John Williams’s delightful score performed live to picture by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and the Crouch End Festival Chorus.
Originally released in 1990, the score was nominated for two academy awards and the movie continues to be a regular fixture around the world each Christmas! The performances will run on Saturday, December 6 and 13 twice a day. We’ve seen a number of these films in concert and they are truly unforgettable.
Swiss fondue experience
Returning for 2025, the Winter Lodge at The Montague Hotel brings a taste of Alpine dining to London with all the cosy festive vibes.
The moment you step inside, you’re transported to the Swiss mountains. The rustic wooden cabin interior, the wall-mounted skis and deer head and crackling fireplace instantly whisk you away from the city into a serene winter hideaway. As someone who has tried authentic fondue in Zurich, we can confirm the Winter Lodge feels just like the real thing, minus the snow outside.
The space is filled with alpine memorabilia, spruce, twinkling lights, and seasonal crockery. Discover the rich flavours of Swiss cheeses like Emmental and Vacherin as you follow the tradition of dipping crusty bread and new potatoes into the melting pot. It’s fun, delicious, unique, and truly memorable.
You can also visit The Ski Lodge, a cosy Alpine-inspired bar with nostalgic winter charm. Both Winter and Ski Lodges are open until the end of the year.
Swan Lake afternoon tea and tour
Embark on a captivating journey behind the scenes and delve into the rich, fascinating history of Swan Lake – one of the most iconic and beloved classical ballets. This tragic tale of love and transformation has enthralled audiences for generations, and now, you have the chance to explore its legacy like never before.
The experience starts with an hour long guided tour of the Royal Opera House, offering rare insight into the world of Swan Lake and The Royal Ballet. See the original feathered tutu and headdress worn by dancers throughout the years and learn more about the artistry and history that brought this production to life.
Following the tour, indulge in an Afternoon Tea served in the elegant Balconies Restaurant within the breathtaking Paul Hamlyn Hall. Enjoy a selection of savoury delicacies and desserts, accompanied by live music from a Royal Ballet and Opera pianist – an immersive experience set in one of London’s most iconic venues.
The experience runs until 15 March 2026.
UK's highest snow globe climb
This winter, step into a real-life snow globe – 52 metres above London! It’s mounted on top of London’s most iconic landmarks – The O2. So how do you get there? Climb up!
After a guided climb across The O2’s legendary roof, tethered to a safety rail of course, you’ll reach the summit and enter the UK’s highest snow globe, complete with falling snow, festive backdrops, and panoramic views of London.
Glasses of bubbly, mulled wine and hot chocolate are available to purchase to warm up as it may be a bit chilly outside. When you’re back down to earth treat yourself with a personalised snow globe to remember the climb. It’s a magical experience for all ages and the climb is quite light and a lot of fun.
The experience is available until 4 January 2026.
Burberry Christmas tree at Claridge’s
There’s no shortage of Christmas trees in London but Claridge’s in Mayfair is famous for its bespoke designer trees that change each year. For 2025, it’s a Burberry Christmas tree. It’s a traditional 16ft tree decorated with 600 bows – a Victorian symbol of unity – made from surplus Burberry fabrics. At its base, oversized floor-standing chess pieces and cosy cushions create a playful and inviting scene.
Guests and visitors are welcomed by doormen wearing the iconic Burberry Check scarf. A check pattern also appears on room key holders, as well as in the lift, which has been redesigned with a plush sofa and cushions. In the bar guests can enjoy a specially concocted Burberry cocktail, while trolleys offering sweets wrapped in checkered cones provide festive delights.
This is the 17th year Claridge’s has invited a distinguished couture house to reinterpret the tree in its own distinctive style. The extraordinary tradition began in 2010, when the art deco hotel unveiled its first Christmas tree to be conceived by a famed fashion designer. Back then, Dior’s John Galliano debuted an unconventional, crooked, tropical tree complete with a model snow leopard and parrots.
Last year’s Christmas tree was designed by Sir Paul Smith. It was beautifully adorned with vibrant baubles, colourful ribbons, and 120 bespoke birdhouses. The Burberry tree, designed by Daniel Lee, will remain in the hotel lobby until Sunday 4 January and is free for anyone to see.
Image credits: © Royal Albert Hall, Up at The O2, The O2, Luke Dyson, Eleonora Boscarelli, Royal Ballet & Opera, Burberry, Claridges, The Montague on the Gardens, Veronika Ward
