LONDON AT CHRISTMASTIME
Where do I even begin with London at Christmastime? Every store, and I mean every store, goes all out with decorations. It seems that every part of the city is touched by the Christmas spirit. From gold ornament archways, to giant mistletoe sculptures, to lights strung across the streets, and Christmas music everywhere…it’s a dream.
We made the most of December in London. We began the festivities with the advent service at Westminster Abbey. The choir sang songs of Christmas, and everyone held candles. It was magical.
One thing you can’t miss when visiting London at this time of year…ice skating. Rinks pop up all over the city, and you just have to take your pick! Our hotel was right next to the festive ice rink at the Museum of Natural history, but the rentals seemed to only be hockey skates, and for the life of me I can’t stay upright on those. So we hopped in a cab and went across town to Somerset House. The rink is situated in the middle of the beautiful building, and there is a jolly Fortnum and Mason Christmas tree right out in front. They were playing classical music and Christmas song while we skated round, dodging school children and having a marvelous time!
The best part about the ice rink at Somerset House is the Fortnum and Mason Lodge. We dropped by after the skate for some hot chocolate and pigs in a blanket. Apparently, it isn’t Christmas in England unless you have pigs in a blanket. Also, in the UK, pigs in a blanket is actually mini sausages wrapped in bacon, and they are delicious!
We did some shopping at Fortnum & Mason, and Liberty of London, and I also met a friend for tea at the beautiful Berkeley Hotel! We finished off the trip with a stop at Covent Gardens, when everything was full on Christmas, and the market was a complete holiday dream.
It was a beautiful trip, and I can’t wait to go back!
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