If you haven’t booked a restaurant, a posh picnic is your best friend. The night before, grab a roast chicken, fancy crisps, and a bottle of something sparkly from a M&S or Waitrose. Find a bench in Hyde Park or sit on the steps of the National Gallery—the view of Trafalgar Square is yours, completely unbothered.
For the truly locked-in diner, many hotels offer a drop-in Christmas buffet without a prior reservation, but you’ll be paying a premium. The Savoy and Claridge’s do a magnificent job, but you’ll typically need a booking secured by late October. Did you know? The tradition of the Royal Christmas broadcast began in 1932 by George V, and you can still catch it at 3pm on BBC One—a perfect moment to pause and feel quietly British.
How Is Christmas Celebrated In The Uk at Catherine Dorsey blog
If you’re with a group, consider a private dining room in a pub like The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead. It’s Dickensian, with roaring fires and a menu that doesn’t mess with tradition. Booking a slot for the Christmas buffet at a hotel like The Ned also offers a party vibe without the actual party stress.
