"Unwrap the Magic: London's Top 6 Christmas Department Stores You Don't Want to Miss!"
'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to soak in the festive spirit than by exploring London's iconic department stores decked out in holiday splendor?
London often makes the Top Ten Lists of Most Christmassy Cities, and for that, I say Ho Ho Ho. Although I think next year I’ve got to check out Vienna, New York, Montreal, or Munich as they never fail to trump London according to the lists I’ve read.
But what I love about London at Christmas is that not one well-trained waiter or department store elf is afraid to wish you a Happy Christmas (they rarely say Merry), rather than the North American generic, "let’s-not-offend-anyone" Happy Holidays.
I have shown you London at Christmas on the outside, and I do that because it dazzles, and every year there is something new.
Now let me take you inside 6 of London’s Most Iconic Department Stores at Christmas.
Fortnum & Mason: A Christmas Extravaganza in Piccadilly!
Not only does England’s oldest department store impress every year from the outside, turning its Piccadilly storefront facade into a four-story advent calendar, but it is also like you are walking straight into a department store Christmas window. All floors are decorated in the most glorious seasonal splendor. And every year they take advantage of their massive spiral staircase that connects all four floors. This year, there is an impressive kinetic display of what looks like giant edible chocolate ornaments moving up and down the center of the store.
2. Covent Garden: A Piazza of Pure Holiday Magic!
While not a traditional department store, Covent Garden deserves a spot on our list for its enchanting holiday charm. The beautiful piazza is adorned with delightful shops and restaurants, all sparkling against the sound of live performers. Its towering Christmas tree might be one of London’s biggest and brightest. And if you time it right, you might even experience a gentle snowfall of soft, fluffy flakes – courtesy of Saint Nic.
3. Selfridges: Where Every Day Feels Like Christmas!
Now, I am not sure if it has just been my exceptional timing, but every time I have been to Selfridge’s (and it is not as often as you might expect), there is something festive being celebrated. Whether it is Father Christmas strolling the halls and posing for selfies or a gospel choir dressed in pink, a confetti gun, and dancing elves, I give Selfridges the prize for most effort. Their gigantic disco ball-like ornaments sparkling on all floors really are Christmas magic.
4. Harrods: The Epitome of Holiday Luxury!
Harrods is synonymous with luxury, and during Christmas, it becomes a magical wonderland. As one of London’s Top Ten Instagrammable places with its over 12,000 white lights illuminating the exterior year-round, at Christmas, inside, that is where the real enchantment happens. Be sure to visit the Food Hall, adorned with iconic Harrods food hampers, plush toys, and mouthwatering treats. This year, the pink Valentino gifts suspended from the ceiling add an extra touch of holiday glamour.
5. Liberty: Rustic Elegance Meets Christmas Joy!
Liberty, known for its rustic yet elegant charm (think Ralph Lauren), brings Christmas to life with a spectacular installation at its central atrium. The Christmas Shop on the 4th Floor has a quaint country Christmassy vibe. The blend of rustic elegance and festive cheer creates an unforgettable holiday atmosphere.
Liberty, Christmas 2022
6. Peter Jones: Making Spirits Bright All Season Long!
Peter Jones always goes the extra mile to make your holiday season bright. With a dedicated Christmas store on the ground floor, a Michael Bublé-like crooner singing Christmas carols, and a beautifully decorated main atrium, you'll be immersed in a world of holiday wonder the moment you step inside.
So there you have it: My Top 6 Most Iconic London Department Stores at Christmas.
In case those of you who love Harvey Nichols are wondering where they are, I have to say they did not make the list. Aside from a few Christmas trees and silver pine cones, it didn't quite match the festive splendor of these other stores.
From my family to yours, no matter what holidays you celebrate, I wish you sincere happiness, joy, and laughter.
Happy Christmas (notice I didn’t say Merry).
Ho Ho Ho
