An Insider’s Guide to London’s Regent Street at Christmas

Discover the best boutiques dotted on and around Regent Street

The festive season in London arrives with a crispness in the air and a familiar, sparkling anticipation. Resting at the meeting point of Piccadilly Circus and the graceful curve of Regent Street, this transformation unfolds just beyond our doors.

Begin your journey with the art of taste. A short stroll from Regent Street leads to the iconic mint-green façade of Fortnum & Mason, where windows are richly decorated and the famed hampers are a beautiful curation of British tradition. Inside, every floor is a feast for the senses and you’ll discover shelves lined with rare teas, exquisite confectionery, and beautifully curated treats. 

Nearby, at Piccadilly Cellars, the ritual of selection becomes intimate and considered. Choosing a rare vintage here makes for a wonderful keepsake or gift — one that celebrates the joy of sharing something truly special.

A little further along, Hatchards, London’s oldest bookshop, provides a different kind of luxury. There’s something grounding about the scent of old paper and polished shelves — and giving a classic edition feels like giving a moment of calm.

Along Regent Street, the emphasis shifts from flavour to form. Here, heritage and design take centre stage. Burberry offers outerwear that defines modern British style in structured, elegant, and effortlessly wearable designs imbued with its signature Check. Mulberry’s coveted leather bags tell a more subtle story of craftsmanship — each piece thoughtfully designed and beautifully finished, with soft, grained leather that grows richer with time. At Hackett London, that same commitment to longevity is woven into every stitch. The tailoring feels distinctly British yet refreshingly contemporary, crafted for seasons — and generations — to come.

For something more intimate, follow your senses. At Jo Malone London and Penhaligon’s, fragrances trigger instant memories and emotions. Whether you’re drawn to something fresh and modern or warm and layered, a scent chosen with care becomes a lasting reminder of the season. Close by, Liberty London offers a creative counterpoint: a haven of design and artistry where you’ll find everything from signature printed silks to handmade homewares, where every object is cherry picked for its unique character.

Of course, the festive mood calls for a little playfulness too. Step into Hamleys, where joy is the guiding principle. This legendary emporium turns imagination into an art form — seven floors of beautifully made toys and creative inventions that bring out the child in everyone. Across the road, the Apple Store provides a sleek, modern balance — gifts for the design lover and the innovator alike. Just a short stroll away, Savile Row’s bespoke ateliers and Conduit Street’s chic boutiques add a touch of old-world craftsmanship and festive sparkle, making this corner of Mayfair especially enchanting at Christmas.

As dusk falls, the city transforms once again. The Spirit of Christmas angels light up Regent Street in a glittering canopy, guiding your return to the warmth of Hotel Café Royal. Step inside and let the buzz of the city fade. Pause for a moment at Cakes & Bubbles, where a glass of champagne and a delicate dessert mark the perfect mid-afternoon indulgence. As night settles, dine at Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, where precision and artistry define every plate, or unwind at the Café Royal Grill — our regal retreat in the heart of London.

The day ends where it began: in the heart of the city, wrapped in light, style, and a hint of wonder. As the final glow of Regent Street’s displays shimmer overhead and the hum of London softens to an evening lull, a sense of belonging settles in — a feeling of being not just in the city, but a part of its rhythm and creativity. London comes into its own at Christmas: where the spirit of the season shines at its most captivating.

Experience a magical Christmas at Hotel Café Royal, where London’s festive spirit, style, and splendour meet on the city’s most iconic mile.