GlocalCities.com

Christmas in London is without a doubt one of the most beautiful times of the year. It’s filled with Christmas celebrations, decorations, food, drinks, and all sorts of parties and events. Fortunately, the actual London Christmas season begins earlier than in the states - usually from the beginning of November. For that reason, it might be a great time for you to dash across the pond and get in the spirit.

There are a number of interesting and fun things to do this year. Try ice skating at The Tower!  How cool is this!  Ice skate in the moat which once held the separation of prisoners from their freedom and dissenters from their king.  Or how about going over to see Disney’s “A Christmas Carol”. Scheduled for November 3rd, the premiere will launch the Christmas lights displays on Regent and Oxford Streets as well as a host of other celebrations centered around a Dickensian theme.

Most importantly, you will want to stay in a well-situated hotel, close to everything in the center of London.  If you’re interested in taking part of the main celebrations in town, you’re not going to want to be in Chelsea or The City.  You’re going to want to focus on Mayfair, St. James’, SoHo, Bloomsbury, Regent’s Park and Marylebone. 

Fortunately, there are a number of “specials” this season in hotels close to the action and of varying star ratings to suit all levels of taste and budget. 

A great find is the Grange Blooms Hotel located just off Russell Square - one of the prettiest areas in London. It’s also a fantastic location for the theatres and Covent Garden, Oxford and Regent Streets, and is literally across the street from the British Museum. It’s walking distance to practically everything.

The hotel is actually a small boutique townhouse set over 3 floors and containing 26 en-suite rooms. Don’t be fooled by the size, however. This is a beautiful, comfortable and warm home away from home with some added 18th century flair. There is a lovely restaurant which overlooks the private garden and a malt library bar (open 24 hours!) where they serve over 30 different malt whiskies. (Tip:  If you’re going on business, this is a great spot to invite a client or your boss for an unusually impressive array of fine whisky - a much loved potable in England.)

The guest rooms are beautifully appointed mixing 18th century and early 19th century antiques with current-day comforts. You can pick a room with a view of the private gardens or a room with a theme such as Pickwick, Lords, Theatre Royal or Dickens. All rooms have hypoallergenic pillows and duvets, ironing facilities, 24-hour room service, non-smoking rooms, complimentary newspaper and fresh fruit, high-speed internet and much more.

Blooms was originally an 18th century townhouse occupying what was once part of the grounds of Montague House - which later became the British Museum. Fortunately for us, the Grange group were dedicated to preserving its elegance and historic presence during its renovation. Don’t wait to book your room here. It fills up fast.