No city in the world does the holidays quite like London.
Andrew Holt/Getty Images
London has long been one of my favorite cities.
Fulham Palace Christmas Fair
Want the festive experience sans the crowds?
Ice skating at Somerset House in London.Credit:Andrew Holt/Getty Images
Malpass recommends heading to theFulham Palace Christmas fair.
So, any gifts you pick up will definitely be unique, he says.
What I love most about Christmas at Trafalgar Square is the setting, he says.
Jubilee Market Hall in London.Heather Durham/Travel + Leisure
On New Bond and Carnaby Streets, Noone says the shops go all out with their festive displays.
Its a sight to remember, says Noone.
Its decorated with an outrageous number of 80 Christmas trees and 22,000 fairy lights.
Regent Street Christmas decorations.Sophia Kravets/Travel + Leisure
Plus, whats a trip to London without visiting an iconic British pub?
Other Festive Things to Do
See a show in the West End.
Enjoy a festive afternoon tea.
Harrod’s at Christmas in London.Heather Durham/Travel + Leisure
Afternoon tea isnt just a meal.
Its an experience especially during the holidays and most luxury hotels typically have a special Christmas menu.
Shop for gifts at Fortnum & Mason and Harrods.
Festival decorations in 11 Cadogan Gardens in London.Courtesy of 11 Cadogan Gardens
Still have a few loved ones to shop for?
There are two iconic London destinations to save in your Google Maps app:Fortnum & MasonandHarrods.
For an authentic British Christmas experience, I highly recommend a visit to Fortnum & Mason, says Noone.
Christmas window displays in London.Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure
Go ice skating at Somerset House.
The latter, however, is Malpass pick.
Prepare yourself for a busy city, says Malpass.
Its always best to plan ahead and book restaurants and theater and attraction tickets early to avoid disappointment.
But dont forget to bake flexibility into your schedule.
After all, the best way to experience London is on foot, says Noone.
Plan Christmas Day accordingly.
Dining is very limited and generally limited to some pubs and hotel restaurants.