Results tagged “Christmas”

I spent a day at the Country Living Christmas Fair in London this week. The Christmas fair is organised by "Country Living" magazine, and it aims to bring together advice and workshops along with a shopping experience. I visited the fair with a VIP ticket, and this enabled me to do a bit of shopping and put my items in the special cloakroom, enjoy free hot drinks and Prosecco all day, and have a place to sit. As with any of these events, lack of seating and long queues for the food is a problem, so the VIP ticket is worth it. The Christmas fair was held near Angel station at the Business Design Centre.

Workshops can be attended with a cost associated with them, but I did not bother. I had planned to attend some of the discussions and demonstrations, but I ran out of time. There is so much to see, and I spent my time looking around the different sellers between returning to the VIP lounge to have a seat and a glass of Prosecco. 

When I arrived, I took a few minutes to relax and enjoyed a glass of Prosecco and a slice of carrot cake. The drinks were included with the cost of the VIP tickets, but any food was an extra charge. The carrot cake was delicious. I had a lemon tart later in the day, but it was not nearly as nice.

I spent a long time looking around the different vendors. The food items were all located below the VIP area, and it was a smaller space. I purchased some gin, oils, a knife with holes in the blade that cuts through items easier, chocolate, cheese, a cat food monthly subscription, and a subscription for a weekly meal delivery company. There were so many other items to purchase from clothing to jewellery, candles to crafts, decorations to artwork, body care to experiences, home goods to craft supplies. It took the whole day to see everything, and I parted with a small fortune.

I headed back to the VIP area for a late lunch, and I had the thyme chicken and a cold potato salad that came with it. There were a couple of other cold sides that I could have had, but I dislike beetroot and the salad came with dressing.

Overall, I had an enjoyable day looking around the Country Living Christmas Fair, and I did struggle a little bit with heavy bags. Part of the problem was that all VIP members receive a large goody bag on the way out, and it contained a few heavy items. 

I received this selection of Yankee Candle Christmas fragrances (known as "Christmas Memories") as a gift in 2018. The collection contains twelve different candle fragrances, and eight of these are fragrances only available in the United States. Over the Christmas holidays, I used these candles. I do have some favourites, so keep reading to find out what I thought.

Cherries In The Snow (USA Exclusive):
This was one of my two favourites of the fragrances. It is a strong-smelling fragrance, and it filled the room with a pleasant cherry smell. The scent is described as having a fruity cherry scent with almonds and an icy freshness. 

Red Berry & Cedar (USA Exclusive):
Provided as a bright red candle, this is a festive scent with warming cedar and red currant berry, which I found to be a warming and festive scent that I enjoyed.

Christmas Thyme (USA Exclusive):
Thyme, lemongrass, and sandalwood provide an earthy festive scent. I loved the scent of this candle, but it did not burn at all for me. The candle kept putting itself out. I didn't have the problem with the other candles, so I imagine it was a faulty candle or the wick was not thick enough.

Candy Cane Lane (USA Exclusive):
Peppermint, cookies, and vanilla icing are combined to create this fresh and sweet scent. This was a little too sweet for my enjoyment.

White Christmas (USA Exclusive):
Evergreens and a woody and frosty smell help bring the outdoors inside when this candle is lit. I enjoyed the fragrance, but it did not have a long throw.

Balsam Cedar (USA Exclusive):
Another pleasant and earthy smell, this was my second favourite scents in the collection, next to the cherry scent. The scent reminded me of a fresh pine tree and has a natural scent with juniper berry and cedar.

Bubbly Pomegranate (USA Exclusive):
A fresh and fruity scent, this candle smells delicious as fruit punch. It is a citrus blend, and I enjoyed the scent, but the throw of the candle was not as strong as I would have liked.

Christmas Eve:
This is another sugary and sweet scent with festive candied fruits and sugar plums in a warm house. The scent has a good throw, but it is not one of the scents that I enjoyed. I found it too sweet.

Red Apple Wreath:
Sweet apples, cinnamon, and maple are some of the fragrances that create this blend. I enjoyed the scent, but it did not have a strong throw at all.

Christmas Cookie:
The sweet and sugary fragrance of 'Christmas Cookie' is a buttery and vanilla scent. I am not keen on this scent at all and do not like the sweet or vanilla scents. This one did have a good throw, but it just was not the scent for me.

Christmas Memories:
Spices and sweets and blended together to create a vintage festive "homely" smell, and this one brought me back to my childhood and reminded me of what I think Mrs. Claus' kitchen would smell like! The scent was okay, but it's too sweet.

Holiday Lights (USA Exclusive):
A fragrance inspired by sparkling Christmas lights, this is a fresh/cold scent with jasmine and praline. It's another one of the sweet scents that I do not care for.

"Tis the Season" is a Christmas store located in the Amish Country in Ohio. The store is open all year around and has over 22,000 square feet of Christmas on display. Visitors can browse the different Christmas displays and buy from any number of ranges and styles of Christmas decorations. The shop started in 1996 and is located in Berlin, Ohio.

The Christmas store makes a nice visit if you are in the area, and it's basically a Christmas overload. For more information abour the shop and the opening times, see: https://www.tistheseasonchristmas.com

Kahuna Cookie Company deliver thick, stuffed American-style cookies to the UK and Europe in small batches. I was lucky enough to nab their special Christmas box before they ran out of stock. This is one online cookie shop that tends to sell out pretty quickly. I've had my eyes on getting a box for months, and this was the first time that I was successful. So, what came in the box? Read below to find out.

The Christmas Kahuna Cookie Company box contained six stuffed cookies of different flavours and a selection of minature candy canes and Christmas Hershey's kisses thrown in. The flavours included:

Ginger Butterscotch Pud: This cookie is made of gingerbread dough, crystalised ginger, butterscotch chips and filled with biscoff and topped with a miniature gingerbread man. I loved this flavour, and the crystalised lumps of ginger and butterscotch chips made the texture a lovely one. If you enjoy ginger, you will enjoy this. Ginger is a warming spice that is used in a lot of Christmas recipes, so it is bang on trend. 

Baileys Hot Chocolate: Many peoples' favourite Christmas drink is Baileys - a creamy alcoholic after-diner shot. This cookie is made of chocolate Irish Cream dough, dark chocolate chips, gold chocolate chips, pecans and Baileys salted caramel. It is filled with cheesecake and completed with a Hershey's kiss shaped as a Santa hat.

The Purple One: In the Christmas selection of chocolate from Quality Street, a lot of people enjoy "The Purple One", which is a milk chocolate with a hazelnut in the centre. This cookie mimics that candy. It is made of milk chocolate and hazelnuts and filled with caramel with "The Purple One" candy on top. Chocolate chip cookies with nuts are a firm favourite of mine as it's a traditional.

Oreo Candy Cane: The Oreo-flavoured candy cane must be a new flavour of candy cane that I have not come across before, so the candy cane turns the simple Oreo into a festive treat. The cookie is made with triple chocolate dough with Oreo cookie chunks and white chocolate chips. The cookie is stuffed with Oreo Cookies and Cream filling and topped with the Oreo candy cane. I absolutely loved this cookie; it tasted delicious. 

Red Nose: The festive Malteser reindeer on top of this cookie turns this Malteser-inspired cookie into a festive treat. The cookie is made of malt dough with smashed Maltesers. It has a red velvet centre and is filled with Malteser spread, topped with the festive Malteser reindeer.

Mince Pie: Mince pies are a traditional Christmas treat, but they are one that I dislike. So, this was my least favourite of the cookies personally. The cookie is made of mince pie dough and stollen pieces and filled with sweet mincemeat (basically chopped dried fruit, not actual meat). It is topped with a festive holly berry design.

I have tried a lot of different home-delivered cookie companies, and I will say that Kahuna is one of the tastiest.

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, London has still put on a dispay of Christmas lights and decorations. Due to the lockdown in November, many of the venues were late to put up their decorations this year, so it took a couple of visits to London in order to see them all. Keep reading to see where you can see London's Christmas lights and decorations. If you want to see some of London's Christmas-themed treats, I have created a post here: Where to Buy Christmas-Themed Treats in London (2020)

Oxford Street: The Oxford Street banners have returned with the addition of stars. This year, the messages displayed on the banners are tributes to the heroes in the health service and community during this terrible year of the coronavirus pandemic. Of course, social distancing warnings and signs along and on the pavements highlight to all visitors to the area to keep their distance from everyone else to stop the spread of the virus.

Regent Street: Like the past couple of years, the spirits or angels of Regent Street have returned. These decorations were inspired by the Regent Street Christmas decorations many years ago. They have become a favourite in London. Regent Street's toy store Hamley's decorates for the holidays, but a lot of shops have toned down the displays this year. Off of the top of Regent's Street is Maddox Street, home to Maddox Gallery. The past couple of years, they have added elaborate displays, but they have not done anything this year. 

Oxford Street window displays: The major department stores in London have decorated, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, some of these department stores have gone bust and have not decorated. Overall, it is looking less festive than it normally does on Oxford Street.

St. Christopher's Place: This little 'hidden' alleyway off Oxford Street is always festive, and the decorations are always very similar with festive large orbs. This year, the mannekin is draped with gold, silver, and bright purple tinsel.

Selfridges: The department store near Bond Street on Oxford Street always decorate its windows. This year, the theme is Christmas trees. 

Carnaby Street: Carnaby Street are always a favourite. Their lights this year are inspired by heroes and hope, and you can read more about them here: Carnaby Street Christmas Lights 2020: Choose Love. Off of Carnaby Street is Liberty Department store, and they normally decorate the interior mezzanine with a festive display, but that has not happened this year.

Covent Garden: Covent Garden is always festive at Christmas. The giant Christmas tree and floral displays are in place at the piazza and in the market. This year, Lego have added an exhibition in the piazza, and their interactive exhibition can be booked in advance. There are a couple of Lego characters around the market to locate too. For more photographs, see: Covent Garden Christmas 2020.

Seven Dials: Seven Dials change their display every year. This year, the theme is white branches and garlands with pink, blue, and gold baubles of different sizes.

Seven Dials Market: Inside Seven Dials Market, lights and Christmas trees decorate the seating area.

Fortnum and Mason: The department store Fortnum & Mason have been decorating the front of their shop as an advent calendar for the past couple of years now. It is most attractive when viewed at sunset or dusk.

Burlington Arcade: Burlington Arcade is one of London's famous arcades at the edge of Mayfair. The arcade is decorated with beautiful red baubles and white frosted branches with twinkling warm lights. There are a couple of potted Christmas trees and a swing inside, aimed at people to take selfies.

Cartier: The front of Cartier's shop in Mayfair always decorates well for Christmas. This year, their red ribbon is accompanied by their mascot, a big cat (leopard?). The display has increased in size. It always attracts crowds.

Tiffany: A few doors down from Cartier is Tiffany's, and they have simple neon trees in their company blue colour.

Mayfair: Of course, Mayfair has many shops that decorate, and it's always worth a walk up and down the streets. Stella McCartney's shop, a few doors down from Cartier, is normally decorated fully but only has the ground level decorated this year. The lights for Mayfair have returned again this year, and they are the pecaock feathers and diamonds.

Annabel's: This private members' club has been decorating for the holidays for the past few years. This year, they have gone with a nutcracker theme complete with the facade of the building draped in over-sized curtains.

Hedonism Wines: Located in Mayfair, this wine shop has been decorating for the holidays for the past few years. This time, it's completely outdone itself with the festive flair.

King's Cross St. Pancras tree: Each year, King's Cross St. Pancras have their own Christmas tree. It is always decorated with a particular brand. In the past, Tiffany's and Disney have features. This year, EL&N (Elan cafe) have designed the Christmas tree. They have just opened a branch of their cafe at the station. "Wishing you a season of sweetness" is the tagline on one side of the tree. It uses the company's trademark pink colour, and the tree is a carousel with pink horses, which mimics the interior of its popular cafe.

King's Cross: King's Cross have actually decorated three Christmas trees this year. The first one is located near German Gymnasium, which is a bar, opposite King's Cross entrance. It is a colourful tree with multi-coloured LED branches. Further along at Granary Square is an abstract Christmas tree that people can stand underneath and interact with. The third tree is in its new shopping area, Coal Drops Yard. This tree is made with over 70 succulents in glass baubles. (One of the company's here at Coal Drops Yard offer workshops, and one of their workshops is terranium-making, and I was planning to sign up for one of them this year after having been inspired after my first visit to Coal Drops yard at this time last year.)

King's Road Duke of York Square and Belgravia: Duke of York Square features its own festive Christmas tree, and there are plenty of window displays along King's Road and in Belgravia.

Peggy Porschen: The cafe, Peggy Porchen, has two branches. King's Road in Chelsea and Belgravia's Elizabeth Street. Both cafes have pink and tan gingerbread, peppermint, and star displays.

The Ivy Chelsea Garden: The popular restaurant is located on King's Road and have gone all out on the Christmas decorations for the past three years. This year, they feature several selfie opportunities and a fascade covered in decorations. 

Hays Gallery: Every year, the gallery along the river decorate with a large Christmas tree.

City Hall along the Thames: City Hall, located along the Thames, have gotten into the festive mood this year with a woodland animal theme featuring a deer, robin, and fox. This one has become popular with people to get photographs of. Also, I will state that Borough Market is also looking festive with its large Christmas tree and expanded market with street food.

The Shard: The Shard's light show has returned on the tower. Tower 42 was also projecting Christmas jumpers (for Christmas jumper day), and some of the towers in the City do light up for the season. Visiting London at this time of the year is always magical, but it was very muted this year.

Fait Maison: The restaurant and cafe always decorate for the seasons. This Christmas, they kept the florals pretty neutral but added swans and feathers around the door. It is less than they usually do. Inside the cafe, the swan features in a lot of its pastry designs.

Tate Britain: Tate Britain's winter commission on the facade of the building celebrates Diwali and various stereotypes of colonial rule in India as well as personal stories of the artist, Chila Kumari Singh Burman. "Remembering a brave new world" is the commission to be seen until the end of January.

Trafalgar Square: Visit Trafalgar Square for its giant Christmas tree. The Christmas tree is a gift from Norway, and they have gifted a tree each year since 1947.

Churchill Arms in Kensington: The Churchill Arms is London's best-dressed pub with Christmas trees covering the outside of the pub. It is worth a visit and is a little different each year.

South Bank, Leicester Square, and Winter Wonderland Markets and Attractions: South Bank and Leicester Square are normally festive with a Christmas market, but they have been cancelled this year. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a fun land with a market, amusements, rides and attractions, is also cancelled this year.

Connaught Christmas Tree: Each year for the past few years, The Connaught hotel have commissioned an artist to decorate a Christmas tree. There is a Christmas tree this year with simple white lights in front of the hotel, but there is not a commission this year.

Previous London Christmas lights are below:

• Where to see London Christmas lights and decorations (2019 Edition)
• Christmas in London 2018 - Lights and Displays
• Where to see London's Christmas Lights 2017
• London's Christmas Lights 2016
• Christmas Lights and Windows 2015
• London Christmas Lights 2014
• London's Christmas Lights 2013
• London Christmas Lights and Window Displays 2012

Previous London Window displays are below (I've phased these out as they have not been as interesting the past few years and more interest seems to be on the facade of the building as opposed to displays inside the windows):

• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011

I hope that all of my readers have a merry Christmas, despite all of the restrictions and anxieties this year. Christmas is tough enough for some people already, only to have the extra issues this year due to the coronavirus pandemic thrown on top. Due to the lack of direction and guidance from the government at not managing expectations, people had had their plans thrown apart at a few days' notice. Even those who did not have any plans with meeting with anyone else over this festive time had had their plans torn apart, and if I did catch this virus, it will be due to those last-minute plan changes and restrictions on my movement. Unfortunately, I have lost faith in the government due to their poor handling. Although Christmas is not my favourite time of the year, this one has been the quietest. No work Christmas parties to go to, festive afternoon tea and cocktails were cancelled, light trails and other events were cancelled, carol singing was cancelled, meals out were cancelled, shopping trips were cancelled... I did manage to get into London to see the lights and decorations, but it was an anxious and muted trip.

Instead of traditional Christmas parties, people had to have calls over video chats on the phone or computers. They had festive quizzes and bingo, escape rooms, cocktail-making, and so on. The above cocktail was made in one of the cocktail-making courses. A box of the ingredients was sent, and we were told how to make cocktails by someone who worked at Absolut Vodka (with Dirty Martini). The Christmas cocktail tasted amazing.

I bought some Christmas flowers to put in front of the fireplace. Just a little bit of beauty helps keep calm and happy in an otherwise depressing and anxious time.

On Christmas Eve, which I do much prefer to Christmas Day, I had some drinks outside with neighbours (all socially-distanced, of course). I enjoyed a hot chocolate with marshmallows in my new mug (I bought myself a Christmas Eve mug). Instead of reading a book, which was my original plan, I ended up watching one of my favourite films, "It's a Wonderful Life". 

Today is just a quiet day with my Maine Coons. There may be more socially-distanced drinks later with neighbours. I will also be cooking a meal and possibly watching more films or reading. Whatever it is that you decide to do, I hope that you have an amazing day and take care of yourself and stay safe.

I have been reading a lot over the past few months, and I have compiled a short-list of some books that you may enjoy during this festive season. For these winter months, there is nothing more enjoyable than sitting in front of the fire with a hot chocolate while enjoying a good book. 

"The Country Village Christmas Show" by Cathy Lake
Bonnier Books, released 29 October, 2020
This book follows the life of divorcee Clare as she moves back in with her recently-widowed mother and large German Shepherd dog in Little Bramble village. The story focuses on Clare and local vet Sam and his sister who has lasting mobility challenges due to an accident. The story of Clare and Sam and a blossoming relationship is the focus of the story with a short back story about a Christmas show to bring community together. The story is cute in places and held a lot of promises, but I felt it dwelled a little too much on the back story of Clare and Sam and their struggles with trust and loss. It's a good read, but it could have been better.
My review: 7/10

"Together by Christmas" by Karen Swan
Pan Macmillan, released 29 October, 2020
Set in Amsterdam, this novel focuses on Lee, who had been a journalist on the front line, and her young son. The novel has a lot of dimension for a Christmas story, and it really helps you to understand the run up to Christmas that is celebrated in the Netherlands. The story starts with a mystery book left in the bicycle basket and then ends up understanding the back story for Lee and her budding relationships with those around her. The book gave me a sense of the celebrations in Amsterdam and made a good read.
My review: 9/10

"The Winter Garden" by Heidi Swain
Simon & Schuster, released 1 December, 2020
Freya's circumstances change before the winter hits, and she leaves as caretaker of an estate to a new estate in Nightingale Square where she quickly makes friends with the others while working on the Winter Garden. However, there is one man that she does not seem to connect with - artist and sculptor Finn. The story focuses on Freya and her blossoming relationship with the people at her new home while they create this winter garden trail for guests. This book is a perfect winter read; it's less about Christmas, but it is a perfect winter romance book.
My review: 9/10

"Christmas at Lock Keeper's Cottage" by Lucy Coleman
Boldwood Books, released 3 September, 2020
Tollie owns the canal boat that attracts guests for festive fun each year, and his grand-daughter Immi arrives on the scene and wants to make it more special this year. However, a blizzard threatens to cancel their festivities, and Immi's boyfriend Gray is out of the area. The community must come together to make the most of it and to stop the blizzard ruining their plans. Overall, I felt that this book was slow-paced and dragged in places. The ending of the book had the festive Christmas mood, but the beginning and middle was a bit of a struggle to keep interest.
My review: 6/10

"Miracle Creek Christmas" by Krista Jensen
Shadow Mountain Publishing, released 8 September, 2020
Riley moves to a small town to start work as n art teacher. Mark is a firefighter who suffered serious burns to his face and body on the job. He soon bonds with Riley over artwork, in particular as his mother was an artist. He convinces her to help finish his mother's artwork for the nativity. Mark suffers chatting to her since the fire has made a lasting impression on him physically and psychologically. This book does not have a strong Christmas mood, but it is a nice romantic story with characters that learn how to accept each other.
My review: 8/10

"Snowball's Christmas" by Kristen McKenagh
Kensington, released 29 September, 2020
Told from the perspective of the white fluffy kitten named Snowball, this story follows Snowball's human family - Mrs. Tilly (owner of the guest house) and Emily (cook of the guest house). When Mrs. Tilly's newphew Lukas arrives, he starts to make repairs and wants his aunt to sell up and retire. Emily wants to own her own bakery. Snowball attempts to get the two together, even though they often argue and do not realise that they need each other. Again, I did not find this one to be too Christmassy, but a cat as the main character is a little unique in the story.
My review: 5/10

The illuminated light trail at Stourhead in Wiltshire was first realised last year. I was not able to go last year, so it was high on my list this year. Despite booking in September for the earliest slot on its opening day, the November lockdown meant that the event was postponed and my original date was cancelled. I had to rebook for a less-than-convenient day. Luckily, I was able to get to go then and did not book it for the end of December because my area on the fringe of London is now under new restrictions with all other plans cancelled at last minute (thanks, Covid 19). This visit to Stourhead took place last Monday. My visit was thankfully dry and not too cold, and I enjoyed getting out. There have been very few times this year that I have actually been able to get out and do things.

Due to coronavirus, the event was scheduled with social-distancing in mind, so the displays did not encourage much lingering nor crowding. However, there were a couple of tight points where other members of the public seemed to forget that there was a pandemic and got very close to crowding. Despite these two instances, most people were being respectful, but there was a mild and muted anxiety in the air.

We were led down a hill to the greenhouse for the first lights. This little area was a bit narrow with two light-covered archways with people crowding around. This was the first problem area. At the end, this led to a small orchard with trees covered in orbs, snowflakes in the walled garden, and the lit-up greenhouse.

Next, we walked through an illuminated walkway and saw views of the facade of Stourhead house, which was illuminated.

The trail then diverted into the courtyard by this house, and Santa was here. He was socially-distanced inside his little fence, but he could get photographs with you and speak to you if you wanted to tell him what you wanted for Christmas. It was all in mind with safety here.

Next up, we came to illuminated rattan-style displays in the first twelve days of Christmas, surrounded by flames.

Futher along the trail, we saw a few Christmas trees made of sleds.

Then, on to the first larger display of illuminated tulips. This was set to a light show, and they changed colour.

At the end of that was a tunnel of light.

Lit-up gifts decorated the trail.

We even saw some lit-up constellations.

And the trees were aglow with different colours...

...with seats...

...and flying sculptures.

A tunnel of love with red glowing sequin hearts was the next part of the trail to walk through.

This led to an illuminated mistletoe.

We are on the top of the hill before the descent, so we could see the beautiful buildings from the top. These were lit up. It gave us a clue of what to expect below.

Down the trail, the forest was carpeted in lights.

Disco balls hung from illuminated blue and red trees...

...with rattan reindeer and foxes aglow...

...and a shiny Rudolph light hanging on the trail above us, his nose lighting the way.

Around the corner were the final "twelve days of Christmas" illuminated.

We kept seeing the glimpses of the buildings through the trees.

With some lights appearing to fall to the ground around us, sparkling silver strands.

The silhouettes of angels were in the windows of a building along the lake.

A little chapel and building were alight along with illuminated water lillies and the illuminated bridge across a lake, the reflectings adding to the beauty. This was set to a light and sound show that changed colour.

Despite the coronavirus pandemic and anxieties caused by it, I enjoyed my visit to Stourhead for its Christmas light display. It has been the highlight of my month.

Each festive season, London's cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and shops offer a selection of festive treats. I love when London's cafes, hotels, and restaurants offer themed seasonal treats. I've tracked a few places down for you this year to help get you in the festive mood and to support our local businesses. I wrote the majority of this article before the new lockdown restrictions broke, so please try to support these businesses (and additional ones) by using takeaway or delivery services. Keep reading and scrolling to see where you can get Christmas-themed and festive treats in London.

First up is Bill's restaurant, which has several branches throughout London. I visited the branch close to Seven Dials. The restaurant are serving up a special festive menu, and one of their desserts is the mousse shaped like a Christmas tree in a flower pot. The flower pot is made out of white chocolate, and the tree is made of a mousse-marshmallow with berry coulis. It sits on top of cookie crumb soil with pumpkin seeds and blueberries dusted with edible metallic paint. Definitely visit on a hungry stomach because the treat is very filling; it's best to share with a friend.

One of my favourite cafes to visit for themed treats in London is Yolkin. I visited them last year, and they had the same treats on offer, minus the macarons. The giant ice cream macarons come in four flavours, which are the same as last year: candy cane snowflake, salted caramel reindeer, Christmas pudding, and Santa belly milk and cookies. I had the salted caramel reindeer this year, but my favourite is the candy cane snowflake. You can see more photographs from last year here: Yolkin Ice Cream Macaron Sandwiches - Christmas.

Fait Maison on Gloucester Road (the one closest to the station) has been offering festive treats for the past couple of years, and I visited last year (Fait Maison Brunch and Holiday Cupcakes) where the selection was different. This year, the cafe has gone with a swan theme, so you will find cupcakes and biscuits with the white swan design. The swan also features on the floral display on their shop front. Other cute treats include gingerbread cake pops, snowflake mousse, and snowflake triple-tiered macarons. There is also a messy hot chocolate, which is served with a festive twist and gingerbread man.

Next up is the Milk Train festive potted Christmas tree ice cream. This is similar to some of their other themed seasonal treats. There are a couple of festive flavours of ice cream to try with it - eggnog or chocolate orange. Not being a fan of either of those flavours, I had chocolate. Green cotton candy (candy floss) is used to create the pine tree with a chocolate stick for the trunk. A sugary snowman sits at the base, and a star is plucked on top. It is very festive indeed.

EL&N (also known as Elan) have also created various festive treats from eclairs printed with Christmas icons and other pastries created in the shape of pink baubles, snowmen, pine cone trees, Santa hats, and pink Christmas trees. EL&N are noted for their wonderful displays that feature a lot of pink, and they recently opened up a new branch at King's Cross St. Pancras station. They have placed the King's Cross Christmas tree in the station this year.

Humble Crumble is a new pop-up that started in London at the beginning of the year. I first visited them in January when they had a pop-up kiosk at an event, and later in the year, they opened up a permanent kiosk at Spitalfields market. They have sense expanded into Borough Market, following one of the surprising successes of 2020. Their crumble really is delicious, and they have been creating seasonal themes, such as this crumble with Christmas trees made from marshmallow. Visitors can customise their crumble with custard or cream and the type of crumble, and so on. Be warned that it can get very messy. They do serve in three sizes, and the one below is a medium.

Peggy Porschen bakery have two cafes - their original on Elizabeth Street and their King's Road cafe. They always offer seasonal treats, and this year is no exception. This year, they are offering a gingerbread cupcake topped with a sugar snowman. Last year, they offered a peppermint cupcake with polar bears of penguins, which you can see here: Peggy Porschen Winter 2019. I was not as keen on the gingerbread one, but it does look very festive, and their shop front always changes with the season. This year, it features gingerbread.

The Treats Club are located at Seven Dials Market, and they sell coffee and doughnuts on the ground floor. For the festive season, they have created nutella-filled doughnuts with salted caramel icing in the shape of Christmas trees. They also have other themed doughnuts.

Doughnut Time, which has several branches in London (the one I walk by most often is the one on Drury Lane), has seasonal doughnuts. The gingerbread one is vegan and is a biscoff biscuit. 

Bubblewrap, one of Chinatown's sought-after bakeries (the ice cream and bubble waffle blended treats), also have their own Christmas treat. This is a bubble waffle wrapped with chocolate ice cream in the shape of a popular red-nosed reindeer. 

Of course, there are more places to get seasonal treats in London. Whipped, known for its cheese cakes, have opened a new cafe on Endell Street and are serving cheesecake slices with shortbread antlers. Soft Serve, located in BoxPark in Shoreditch, are serving ice cream with snowman marshmallows on top. 

Basildon House, located near Reading in Berkshire, sits in 400 acres of pasture and woodland. It is a popular National Trust property to visit in the winter months. My first ever visit to the house was this autumn. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the house is not fully open, but you can read about my visit and see photographs here: Visiting Basildon Park (National Trust, Berkshire): Lockdown Edition. I recently visited Basildon House again in order to see the Christmas displays. Normally, National Trust properties open up with festive flair during December, but it is muted this year. Many properties are simply not open. Other properties have done a little bit of decoration for the holidays, and Basildon Park is one of those. 

The house at Basildon dates from the 18th century from fortunes made in East India. The house passed through several owners in a short space of time, but the house was luckily saved for today's generation by a family who sought to fix it up during a time when such houses were being demolished. The house has been in the care of National Trust since 1978. It has been used as a filming location for the 2005 "Pride and Prejudice", "Dorian Gray" and "Downton Abbey".

The walk up from the stables, which today is the location for the shop and tearoom, is through a little bit of forest up the hill. It was covered with strings of white lights.

The last time I visited Basildon Park was sunny too. It is an attractive-looking property, and I do hope to visit it again when it is fully open.

I had some time before the house opened to look around, and I mainly went to the garden of the house, which I find peaceful and with nice views.

Christmas is always a nice time to visit National Trust properties as they do decorate. This year, however, it was a muted event. But an effort was made, and I enjoyed seeing the house decorated. The entrace room contained a large tree with pink, white, and silver decorations that match the flowers in the room and the wall.

The library off this room was shut up, so the next room to visit was the landing. This area was decorated with red and gold decorations. The stairs were blocked off as only a few rooms could be visited on the ground floor.

The dining room did not have a Christmas tree, but it was lit with moody purple and white lighting with the table laid for a feast.

The octagon room is one of the most unique rooms in the house, and this was the most beautiful room for Christmas with a large tree covered in white lights. It did not have any decorations, though.

The small living room off of the octagon room also did not contain a Christmas tree, but some ornaments were made to look festive with some decorations or lights added to them. A group of stuffed toy bears on the floor appeared to be having drinks with one of them appearing to have had a little too much.

This leads through to the kitchen, which was also decorated.

The final room contained some decorations lit up in the fireplace and also a "tree of books" for this little office room, located off of the main entrance hallway.

I would love to visit Basildon Park again next year and to see it at Christmas. I hope that we are able to do so and hope that the whole house is open.

Today's post features Christmas at Standen House. Standen House is a National Trust property that I visited in the early autumn for the first time this year (A Morning at National Trust's Standen House and Garden (West Sussex): Lockdown Edition). Last June was the first year that I took out annual National Trust membership, and I went to a couple properties that were decorated for Christmas; I really enjoyed these visits and made plans to see even more of them this year. Unfortunately, that did not pan out at all, but I was happy to see that Standen House had part of the house open with a few rooms decorated for Christmas. It was not the usual festive mood, but it was something to help celebrate the season.

Visitors to Standen may not get to enter the house depending on the number of people waiting. Strict rules on social distancing must be obeyed, so the numbers in the house have to be cut, so bear this in mind if planning to visit. 

At the entrance to Standen House are decorative trees made out of yarn with various sewn and knitted ornaments. These decorations and trees were created by people during the lockdown, and the idea is that these trees celebrate the Arts & Crafts movement that Standen House is known for. Some of the stories are told by those who used their creativity during the lockdown.

The trees made a nice centrepiece in the courtyard to look at while waiting to be let into the house.

The trees were decorated in Standen House, and one of the volunteers mentioned that each room in the house usually features a Christmas tree from each decade. This year, the trees in the rooms each had their own different theme. The entrance hall included a video of a party behind the piano, detailing the Christmas parties held at the house, and the tree in this room featured musical instruments.

In the billiard room, the tree seemed to be focused on games. The room includes the billiard table and rocking horse.

Off to the side in the hallway was a room to peer into - a simple cloakroom where the owners of the house would prepare for a winter walk or sled-riding.

The main living room appeared to be decorated for Christmas day with unwrapped piles of gifts and a life-sized Santa. The tree in this room was decorated with lanterns, possibly inspired by Japan as the owners visited the country and eventually moved there.

The below photograph is a closer-up view of the musical Christmas tree.

The stairs in the house were decorsated with lights and pine gardlands, which also created another tree. The upstairs is still closed, as it was earlier in the autumn on my first visit.

The dining room was set for Christmas dinner with the dinner having been finished, signalling a good time to be had judging by the messes on the table. The Christmas tree in this room is decorated with cutlery.

The library room was closed on my first visit due to the inability to keep distance from others. However, it was open on this visit, and we all kept our distance while we looked around the room. The room was decorated with gifts being wrapped, and the Christmas tree was filled with multi-coloured lights.

The next room was the office room at Standen House, and the tree in this room was decorated with cow ornaments. The room was also decorated with wooden cows up near the ceiling, and each of these and the oranments contains a name. All of the cows at Standen House were named, and all of the names were retained in the paperwork. 

I'm not sure I could name a cow "Carol", but they did...!

The next area of the house was for the servants, and this tree and table setting was decorated fror them for Christmas day.

Through this room was the kitchen, which I don't think was open when I last visited, but I could not remember. This room was set up as if a variety of holiday treats, such as cookies, were being made and cooked. 

One of the cottages outside the house had a pretty festive wreath.

I am hoping that things are more "normal" by next Christmas and that I can enjoy some of these houses decorated for Christmas again.

One of my favourite places to visit in London during the festive season is Covent Garden, and I always visit it during the daylight since it's not all about the lights here. Although there are lights and a giant Christmas tree, there is much more to the Covent Garden Christmas experience. Despite the pandemic that we have all had to live through this past year, Covent Garden did not disappoint. Of course, it was not the same atmosphere as in previous years, and everyone was keeping cautious and careful, but the venue was decorated for the occassion.

The large silver reindeer did not make it back to the Covent Garden square this year due to an exhibition taking the space that it normally occupies, but the Christmas tree display was back. This trend started last year with each tree bearing the name and decorations relating to the various businesses in Covent Garden. It is a nice touch. 

The centrepiece was a Christmas tree made from Lego bricks. For several years in a row, until the giant Lego store around the corner in Leicester Square, Covent Garden always hosted a festive Lego creation - advent calendars, trains, Santa's sleigh with reindeer, etc. This year, Lego have returned to Covent Garden.

"A Really Cool World" is the name of the immersive creative experience that Lego have brought to Covent Garden this year. It is a free admission to be booked in advance, and it features several small stations with Lego creations that are brought to life. The creations are inspired by children and include a dinosaur, a sausage Christmas tree, dragons, a dance floor, and much more. Visitors to Covent Garden can see the displays and pass through the archway. 

I discovered three additional Lego sculptures in Covent Garden. One was the Christmas tree grouped with the other Christmas trees.

The other two were located in the floral display inside the covered market. This floral display is always updated for the season, and the mixture of pines, reds, deep pinks, and whites creates a magical wintery display. Inside the display are two Lego sculptures, and their facial expressions change. One is Mario from the Super Mario Brothers games, and the other is Santa.

The mistletoe light decorations with the giant silver orbs continue to decorate the market.

The giant Christmas tree also returns this year. New to this year is a snow machine that sprays snow into the air every so often so that it gives the appearance of winter and snow. It is quite a nice touch.

Ivy Market Grill in Covent Garden also always decorate for the seasons, and their display this year has been toned down to the entrance only. The entrance is flanked with silver branches and baubles.

For previous Christmas decorations at Covent Garden, see the following:

• Covent Garden Christmas 2019
• Christmas in London 2018 - Lights and Displays
• Where to See London's Christmas Lights 2017
• Lego "Let's Build Xmas" in Covent Garden
• London's Christmas Lights 2016: A Trail
• Where to See Christmas Lights in London
• Christmas Mistletoe in Covent Garden
• Lego Santa Express in Covent Garden
• London's Christmas Lights 2014
• Covent Garden's New Shiny Reindeer
• Santa and Reindeer Lego for Christmas in Covent GardenCovent Garden's Christmas Lego Snow Globe
• Lego Advent Calendar in Covent Garden
• London Christmas Lights 2012 and Window Displays

For general London Christmas posts on this blog, see:

• Where to see London Christmas lights and decorations (2019 Edition)
• Christmas in London 2018 - Lights and Displays
• Where to See London's Christmas Lights 2017
• London's Christmas Lights 2016
• Christmas Lights and Windows 2015
• London Christmas Lights 2014
• London's Christmas Lights 2013
• London Christmas Lights and Window Displays 2012

Each year, Carnaby Street light up a new set of Christmas lights for the season. This year, their lights are a collaboration with charity Choose Love, who raise funding for refugees by allowing visitors to buy blankets, mobile phone credit or shoes that are then donated. With the year that 2020 has turned out to be, the new lights offer hope, love, and kindness. 

Look up and you will see various gifts that describe how community have come together: gift, hope, together, brave, hero, thank you, kind, and happy are some of the words above the "Choose Love in Carnaby" banners. The design is a lot more subtle than in previous years where Carnaby Street pull out all the stops. This year's display features purple banners with simple words.

The side streets and the row of bulbs on Grafton Street are decorated with pink bulbs in keeping in the purple and pink theme this year.

 Due to the pandemic, the switch-on event at Carnaby Street (and all of the other streets) was cancelled, but the lights themselves are not cancelled.

To see previous Carnaby Street Christmas lights in my blog, see the below posts:

• Carnaby Street Christmas "One Ocean One Planet"
• Carnaby Street Christmas Lights Celebrate Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody"
• Carnaby Christmas Carnival
• Carnaby Christmas Revolution
• Carnaby Christmas Party
• Robins
• Santa
• Rolling Stones (rock and roll)

I wanted to purchase The White Company's advent calendar last year, but the release date for it was a day that I had non-stop meetings, and by the time I was meeting-free, the advent calendar had sold out. This year, I was lucky enough to purchase the advent calendar, and I am glad that I did not miss out. The White Company's advent calendar is always a sell-out and one of the most sought-after advent calendars. This year, it has a range of candles, bath, and body products in a range of different fragrances.

The advent calendar comes in a sturdy box with its simple "less is more" design featuring white and silver boxes. To see what I received, keep reading below. 

Midnight Votive Candle 65g: The 'Midnight' fragrant range is inspired by Venice and midnight fireworks. It is a warming scent with cardamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It's perfect for the longer winter days.

Spa Restore Bath Oil Shot 30ml: Bring the luxury spa to your bathroom with the essential bath oils to help rebalance and unwind your mood and nourish skin. The bath oil can be put into the bath, and there is enough to treat yourself to four relaxing baths.

Spa Restore Shampoo 75ml: The luxury spa scent is cool and rejuvenating and helps to mimic a spa day. The shampoo contains this scent to help you unwind while you nourish and clean your hair.

Spa Restore Conditioner 75ml: Bringing a luxurious spa into your shower helps to rebalance the mind while using the hair conditioner with the 'spa' fragrance. The product helps keep hair moisturised and nourished while giving the shower a luxurious overhaul.

Fir Tree Signature Votive Candle 75: The votive candle in the scent 'Fir Tree' evokes memories of pine forests covered with snow. The fragrance includes pine, eucalyptus, cedar and moss. It is an earthy scent.

Seychelles Body Wash 50ml: Bergamot, orange, coconut, vanilla, and jasmine are some of the fragrances that make up the 'Seychelles' scent., which reminds me of luxurious sunny days. The fragrance is used for the body wash to help transport you away while using it.

Seychelles Body Lotion 50ml: The 'Seychelles' scent evokes sunny luxurious days, and it is one of The White Company's popular fragrances. It comes as a body lotion.

Seychelles Lip Balm 15ml: This lip balm helps to add moisture to lips, which is useful in the dry winter weather. Making the lip balm using the sunny 'Seychelles' fragrance will transport the wearer to sunny memories to help get through the long wintery days.

Calm Bath Soak Shot 30ml: The 'Calm' scent contains calming juniper berry, geranium leaf, ylang ylang, tonka bean, and sandalwood to create a relaxing scent that evokes a sense of 'calm'. The fragrance is used in this bath soaking oil to help aid relaxation while winding down. 

Calm Pulse Point 10ml: The fragrance 'Calm' evokes a sense of calm using a variety of calming ingredients to aid in relaxation. Adding the fragrance to pulse points allows the user to wear the product as a perfume.

Fireside Signature Votive Candle 7: This candle uses the frafrance 'Fireside', which brings back memories of relaxing by the fireside. The fragrance has notes of smokes wood, fresh birch, amber, and vanilla. It is a warming scent and perfect for winter evenings.

Blanc Body Wash 50ml: The scent 'Blanc' is a crisp and floral scent with geranium and juniper berry. The user can enjoy a body wash in the shower with this strong, floral fragrance.

Blanc Shimmer 50ml: 'Blanc' is a crisp and floral fragrance with geranium and juniper berry notes. The fragrance is a strong but beautiful one. It comes in a body shimmer.

Spa Restore Body Scrub 75ml: The luxury spa can be brought into your skincare routine with the body scrub, which contains the 'Spa' fragrance to help rebalance and unwind and aid in removing dirt and dead skin as a scrub.

Spa Restore Intense Body Cream 75ml: When finished using the body scrub, the 'Spa' fragrance also has body cream in the fragrane range. It will help you feel relaxed while providing your skin with the moisturiser. It is perfect for the dry winter weather, which is less than kind to skin.

Pomegranate Signature Votive Candle 75g: The fragrance 'Pomegranate' is named after the fruit and is a sweet and fruity fragrance with an uplifting mood. The fragrance comes in a candle.

Pomegranate Handbag Cream 30ml: Additionally, handbag cream is provided in the fruity and uplifting 'Pomegranate' fragrance. This handbag cream is perfect for on-the-go when you need to give a bit of moisture and nourishment of hands and skin.

Noir Hand Wash 50ml: This scent 'Noir' evokes sophisticated evening events. Amber, mandarin, and sandalwood help to create this elegant grown-up fragrance. The fragrance comes in a hand wash.

Noir Hand Lotion 50ml: To pair with the 'Noir' hand wash is this hand lotion. This scent is a grown-up and sophisticated one.

Highland Escape Votive Candle 65g: A strong scent, the 'Highland Escape' is a wintery fragrance and is made with a blend of bergamot, saffron, and cognac. It is a woody and warm scent and can help transport you to a warm castle in the Scottish highlands.

Lime & Bay Handbag Hand Cream 30ml: The 'Lime and Bay' fragrance is a tropical garden scent that has been created with a blend of mandarin, grapefruit, orange, lemon, lime, jasmine, and bay leaves. It is a warming and uplifting scent. It has been created for this handbag hand cream, perfect for carrying around during the dry winter months.

Winter Signature Votive Candle 75g: The 'Winter' fragrance is a popular one that sums up the mood of the Christmas season. The fragrance includes cinnamon, clove, and orange. It is perfect in candle form.

Sleep Pulse Point Oil 10ml: The 'Sleep' fragrance helps to aid in sleep. It contains lavender, chamomile, and sage. The pulse point perfume can be used on the pulse points to help aid in relaxation for sleep.

Sleep Bath Soak Shot 30ml: The 'Sleep' fragrance helps to aid the wearer in relaxation and sleep with its blend of lavender, chamomile, and sage. This fragrance is used for a bath soak and promises to get body and mind into a relaxing state before going to bed. 

Rose Quartz Gua Sha: This carved rose quartz stone comes in a fabric pouch. It helps to tone, firm, and stimulate skin. It is a tool that can be used as a facial massager, which will aid in complexion. Before use, the wearer should use serum, moisturiser, or night oil to skin to keep hydrated. Then, gently glide the stone across the face from collarbone to underneath the ear to encourage lymph drainage. Then, massage from the centre of the face by the nose outward toward cheeks, then down the chin and outwards to the ear and then up to forhead. 

Have you ever received the White Company advent calendar? What do you think of it?

"Walking with the Snowman" is a trail featuring twelve life-sized snowman sculptures from Raymond Briggs' illustrated book "The Snowman". The snowman sculptures have been placed between London Bridge and Tower Bridge in London on the south bank where a Christmas market and street food has also been set up along the route. (Apparently, this part of London is now called London Bridge City.) Each of the twelve sculptures is designed based on the Christmas song "The Twelve Days of Christmas". The art trail has been set up between Wild in Art and Penguin Ventures. Often, these sculptures are auctioned off at the end of the trail to raise money for charity.

Eleven Pipers Piping - Jess Loveday

I enjoyed seeing the sculptures, which were all easy to locate and could be completed in a short amount of time. I saw others also looking for the snowmen as well as other people who did not know about them and happened to stumble upon them. With the Christmas market and street food, I found this part of London to be busy on a Sunday late afternoon a little over a week before Christmas.

Twelve Drummers Drumming - Jessican Perrin

Ten Lords a-Leaping - Hammo

Eight Maids a-Milking - Donna Newman

Six Geese a-Laying - Matilda Elizabeth; Nine Ladies Dancing - Lizzie Rose Chapman

Seven Swans a-Swimming - Laura-Kate Chapman

Four Calling Birds - Jenny Leonard

Five Gold Rings - Adam Pekr; Three French Hens - LeiMai Lemaow

A Partridge in a Pear Tree - Jodie Silverman; Two Turle Doves - Megan Heather Evans

The "Walking with the Snowman" sculpture trail is located between London Bridge and Tower Bridge (south Bank) until the 5th of January, and it is a fun day out.

Yolkin serve ice cream macarons and macarons from a shop at the edge of Chinatown in London, but their humbe beginnings were selling their macaron ice cream sandwiches from a small cart at the market here; I visited them originally in 2015 before paying the first visit in their new shop this summer. They are as good as ever with seasonal flavours and cute creations. They currently have an inspiring Christmas range in store, which I just had to post about. 

The seasonal favourites include the above candy cane ice cream in a snowflake macaron. The reindeer macaron is salted caramel. The Santa is mince pie, and the Christmas pudding is chocolate honeycomb.

If those flavours do not suit your fancy, you can create a custom macaron ice cream sandwich, and they have snowmen macarons for the ice cream sandwiches. Oh, and I loved the pink tree.

I also tried some macaroons, all of which were different flavours and some non-Christmas ones too.

Strawberry cake, cookie monster, unicorn and créme brulée were the below flavours.

Yolkin is located at 24 Rupert Street, W1D 6DQ. They are open from 1:00 to 10:00 during Sundays and the weeks and open until 11:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. 

For more posts about Yolkin, see:

London "Happy Halloween" Foodie Treats
A Visit to Yolkin for Ice Cream Macaroon Sandwiches
Yolkin Macaroon Ice Cream Sandwiches

London did not disappoint this year with its Christmas lights and decorations. Many of the lights and decorations this year have been reused from previous years. The areas to see Christmas lights and decorations in London include Covent Garden, Seven Dials, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Mayfair, and King's Cross. South Bank, the City, and the Strand also have their own decorations; I never got pohotographs of some of them this year, but they are similar to or the same as in previous years. 

Carnaby Street: A firm favourite, this street's Christmas lights change every year. Carnaby Street runs just off Regent's Street and Oxford Street, and this year's lights are "One Ocean, One Planet" for "Project Zero", which aims to draw attention to the pollution in the oceans. The lights include giant coral, tortoises, seahorses, and dolphins. For more information, read about it here: Carnaby Street Christmas "One Ocean One Planet".

Soho: Just beyond Carnaby Street is Soho, and the SoHoHoHo lights have returned this year. They were red last year, but they are blue this year. The lights can be seen around Carnaby Street.

Regent Street: Like the past year, the festive angels of Regent Street have returned. These were a throw-back to the streets Christmas decorations many years ago. They are a firm favourite and more interesting than some of the Christmas lights in London. Regent Street also has some shops that decorate for the holidays, including the famous toy story Hamley's. The shop windows this year looked very much like last year's with the soft toy display, so I did not bother to snap a photograph. Continue to walk up Regent Street and you will come to Maddox Street, a couple of blocks from where Oxford Circus is. Maddox Gallery have been putting on a nice display the past couple of years.

Liberty Department Store: At the end of Carnaby Street is Liberty Department Store. The windows were nothing special this year, so I did not bother with a photograph, but I do like their Christmas trees that decorate the outside. However, the main attraction for them this year was inside where a giant Christmas tree (a bonsai) has been constructed out of velvet. It is called "The Tree of Liberty" and is made from purple and blue velvet. 

Oxford Street: Many of the shops along Oxford Street have decorations and Christmas lights on them. This year, Oxford Circus has new lights that replaced its round orbs. The lights are programmed to display different messages onto them. They didn't win me over because they were not very festive, and the light has to be very low in order to really see them.

St. Christopher's Place: This little alleyway off of Oxford Street always decorates for the holiday season. The decorations are always the same or very similar with festive large orbs. This year, they have added tinsel and snowflakes and went with a white theme with purple and red.

Selfridges Department Store: Selfridges department store on Oxford Street cover their shop front with pine and lights. The store windows are usually worth a look, but they have been a little disappointing in recent years. I took a photograph of the main window on the corner with a silver boat and moon and one of the other windows. The silver boat looked nice because it rotated around.

Wembley: Visitors to Wembley can check out new wintery illuminations at the area's Winterfest (Winterfest in Wembley Park: Christmas in Technicolour), new this year. Included at the attraction are a few illuminations, a giant lit-up and walk-through Christmas tree, and other interactive illuminations. It was one of the places to get selfies this winter.

The Churchill Arms. Although I did not visit this year, the Churchill Arms always puts on a spectacular display of Christmas trees covering every inch of the pub. The pub is located near Notting Hill.

The Ivy Chelsea Garden: King's Road is home to The Ivy Chelsea Garden restaurant, and they have been going all out with the decorations. The decorations are perfect for selfie-lovers in mind. This year, they have gone a frosty white with an ice throne, which is perfect for visitors who want a photograph.

Peggy Porschen: This cute pink cafe has two branches: one on King's Road and the other on Elizabeth Street. Each year, the decorations change in its branches, and they have cute cupcakes for sale with the winter theme. You can read more here: Peggy Porschen Winter 2019. A similar shop with floral displays includes Fait Maison (Gloucester Road).

The Strand: The Strand's Christmas lights remain the same as they have the past couple of years, and I did not get a photograph this year.

Somerset House: This is the place to visit for ice skating. It also has a lovely Christmas tree and typically has some events taking place. This year, it has been hosting a giant gingerbread city. I have not been to visit this year.

Covent Garden: One of the highlights to a London Christmas is certainly Covent Garden (Covent Garden Christmas 2019). Each year, it has multiple decorations, including a massive Christmas tree. The shops around it decorate as well, so you will always see something new. This year has a couple of places to take selfies with beautiful decorated tree and floral displays, a gingerbread Covent Garden, giant tree, Tiffany wonderland with an ice rink, and much more.

Seven Dials: The past few years, this area of London has been changing their Christmas lights every year. This year, it has a star theme with gold and pink stars. It's not my favoruite display, but it does look kind of pretty around the Seven Dials dial.

Leicester Square: As in the previous three or four years, Leicester Square's square now hosts a Christmas market, food/drink area, and attraction tent. 

Fortnum & Mason: I enjoy looking at the window displays in Fortnum & Mason each year. They seem to be similar to the decorations last year, and they were nothing special really. However, I love the store front design this year with the shop appearing to look like a giant advent calendar.

South Bank: South Bank has its own Christmas market along the bank and the food Christmas market, which is hosted at weekends. If you're in the area, it's worth visiting.

London Bridge City: New to this year's Christmas offerings (at least on the same scale) is the area on the south bank of the Thames between London and Tower bridges. This area has been named London Bridge City, and it has a long row of Christmas market and street food stalls. It is also hosting a snowman trail. It was busy when I visited it in mid-December.

King's Cross: Each year, St. Pancras International station at King's Cross has a unique Christmas tree from one of the big brands. This year, the tree is from beauty company Lancôme. It is in the shape of the Eiffel Tower, which is fitting for the hub of the Eurostar. Also, a short walk away is a new market area Coal Drops Yard, and they have decorated for Christmas this year. The area opened up toward the end of last year, but I never paid it a visit. This year, they have lights and brightly-coloured trees.

Mayfair: Mayfair is an area to visit if you want to see a lot of decorations. There are some lights, such as the peacock feathers and diamonds along Bond Street; these lights have been around for a long while. South Moulton Street used to have blue archway lights, but they were not placed out this year. A firm favourite is the club Anabel's, located on Berkeley Square. This year, it is a white Christmas tree with giant gold baubles. When I visited, I also saw a polar bear! It is always busy here with so many people coming to snap photographs. Other favourites in the area include a wine shop, Stella McCarney, and Cartier.

The Connaught Christmas tree: The Connaught hotel's Christmas tree is designed by an artist each year.  This year, the artist is Sean Scully. For more information, see: Sean Scully Designs 2019 Connaught Christmas Tree.

Burlington Arcade: The arcades around Mayfair look nice at Christmas. 

Trafalgar Square: Each year, the traditional Christmas tree from Norway is brought to the square and decorated. Trafalgar Square also hosts carol-singing. 

Previous London Christmas lights are below:

• Christmas in London 2018 - Lights and Displays
• Where to see London's Christmas Lights 2017
• London's Christmas Lights 2016
• Christmas Lights and Windows 2015
• London Christmas Lights 2014
• London's Christmas Lights 2013
• London Christmas Lights and Window Displays 2012

Previous London Window displays are below (I've phased these out as they have not been as interesting the past few years and more interest seems to be on the facade of the building as opposed to displays inside the windows):

• 2017
• 2016
• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011

Since "home" is in the middle of major renovations and a mess, I had to resort to booking Christmas lunch this year. I choose to book The Apple Tree in Gerrards Cross (Buckinghamshire, England). At a 15-minute drive from home and a restaurant that I had a good meal at for the first time three months ago, I decided to book at short notice for Christmas Day. The food was good, and I wasn't disappointed. This is probably not something that I will do again, but the main room, dining table, and kitchen are full of boxes, so I did not really have a choice.

The Apple Tree is located in Gerrards Cross in Buckinghamshire, England. This isn't too far from Beaconsfield or Denham about twenty miles to the west of London. (It's actually not too far from just outside the M25 road around London.)

I choose the option for the six-course Christmas Day meal. This included a glass of champagne to start and a plate of bread, olives, and a choice of butter and dip for the bread. The meal also included the Christmas crackers.

The starter was a choice between seven different options, and I had the apple and parsnip soup, which was delicious. It had slices of parsnip on top and came with bread and butter.

We also ordered a couple of cocktails; they have a great selection at The Apple Tree.

As a part of the meal, we also received amuse bouche, a little vegetarian taster prepared by the chef. It was something that neither of us would eat: pickled onion and beetroot. This arrived before the soup.

I had the turkey, which came with gravy and bread sauce and a delicious cranberry sauce pie. It also came with a lump of stuffing and a bacon wrapped in sausage (pigs in blankets). The bloke had the venision, and it came in a jus with blackberries and onions. Both meals included some roast potatoes. The vegetables to share were sprouts cooked with chestnuts and cubed carrots cooked with a bit of pepper. The food was delicious, but the turkey was a little too dry for me.

There were six options of main to have, and the others included fish, beef wellington, lamb, and a vegetarian bake.

I actually struggled to eat all of my food! And I still had two more courses to go. The last course, which we could choose, was the dessert, and we both had the brownie. Christmas pudding, mousse, creme brulee, plum tart, cheese board, and a cherry and chocolate pudding. The brownie came with ice cream and honeycomb pieces. It was delicious and not as heavy as it looks. It was light and tasty, and we both struggled to finish it.

The last course that we had included a cocktail of our choice between six options and two chocolate truffles. I had a cosmopolitan, and the bloke had a Bailey's cocktail. 

Overall, the food was delicious but a bit too filling; we certainly did not leave hungry. I really enjoyed the visit, and the first meal that I had three months ago was also good, so I will return at some point in the new year.

Chrsitmas Day in London is known for being nearly empty, and to see the city in that emptiness has been on my London list for a few years. I heard from someone that London on Christmas Day is getting a bit busier this year, but it's still very quiet compared to how it normally is. Public transportation (buses, trains) do not run on Christmas Day, and taxis are limited; this contributes to the lack of visitors. However, visitors can drive to the city or ride a bike. I had a drive around earlier this morning. Although London was not completely quiet, it was significantly quiet with the ability to drive from Marble Arch to Tower Bridge without traffic jams. It also only took thirty minutes to drive from home to Marble Arch; this journey would normally take longer due to traffic. There were a few other cars and tourists who had the same idea. No doubt that these others were also taking advantage of the city being so quiet.

Seeing normally over-crowded streets such as Oxford Street/Oxford Circus and Regent Street actually quiet was strange. The drive went down Oxford Street, Regents Street, and around Piccadilly Circus a couple of times. I went into Soho, past Seven Dials, down the Strand, around Trafalgar Square, past Holborn, into the City of London, and across Tower Bridge twice. The most amount of people that I saw were on Tower Bridge.

It was normally the same car or two in front of me, but driving around central London took minutes instead of hours, and I liked this. It allowed me to see London in a different light. While not completely quiet in some of my photographs, you can still get an idea of how quiet the city was on Christmas Day morning. Have a look below.

In total, I counted seven coffee shops or souvinir shops that were open for business. This was rare as I did travel a lot of ground. There are also a few places to get Christmas lunch, and I noted a couple of these places looked to be open as well, so tourists staying centrally could easily do a little bit of sight-seeing without the crowds and enjoy Christmas lunch. Happy holidays to all of my readers.

This afternoon, I enjoyed festive afternoon tea at the Amba Hotel Grosvenor in Victoria with friends. The afternoon tea at the Grosvenor Hotel is located in the newly-refurbished Tea Lounge, located not far from Victoria station; it is a Victorian railway Grade II listed hotel. When we visited, the Tea Lounge was very quiet, and we were the only visitors for the majority of our 3.5 hour visit.

The Tea Lounge looks beautiful with hanging chandeliers and slate blue walls.

To start, I had a glass of champagne. I also chose the Darjeeling tea, which was served as a loose leaf tea.

We were then brought the sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

The sandwiches were egg mayonnaise, ham and mustard, salmon, and turkey. The sandwiches themselves were not great as the meat was reformed meat, which we were all disappointed with and thought that it was poor quality coming from such a fancy hotel in London.

Two scones were also given as part of the festive afternoon tea. The first was a savoury Douglas fir needle and mature cheddar scone. The second was a raisin scone. Clotted cream and blackberry jam was provided with the scones. (We were meant to receive a pot of strawberry jam but did not.)

Lastly, we had the pastries. The first one, and the one I liked least because I dislike cheesecake, was a lemon cheesecake. (The menu said that it was meant to be mince pie cheesecake, but this was not correct.) The second one, which I thought was really good, was a gingerbread man. The third was a boozey cherry and chocolate roulade. The sponge was a bit too dry for this. The fourth was a bottled passion fruit panna cotta. This panna cotta was more of a liquid instead of a jelly, so it could be drank with a straw.

My favourite was the gingerbread man, followed by the panna cotta. I did not care much for the chocolate and cherry boozey roulade or the cheesecake (because I dislike cheesecake).

Overall, we had a fun catching up, but this was by far the best afternoon tea that I have had in London. I think that the hotel should focus on good ingredients and making the afternoon tea a little more special, but they probably do not focus on afternoon tea because of a large selection of choice of afternoon teas in London. However, I think that they could make something of it during the holiday season when afternoon tea is popular.