Christmas at Royal Lancaster London

ONIN stepped into the Royal Lancaster London’s dazzling Christmas celebrations, where festive magic filled every corner.

Guests arriving at the grand lobby were greeted by a towering Christmas tree dressed in red and gold. Later arrivals stepped into a flurry of snow, courtesy of a snow machine showering them as they entered. Santa himself was on hand to spread cheer – and yes, I couldn’t resist getting a photo with him. There was also a red sleigh with reindeer and a series of themed trees. One Christmas tree near the staircase captured a winter wonderland scene, complete with snowflakes, a skiing Santa, and polar bears and penguins.

The evening atmosphere was lifted even higher by a local community choir (Paddington Community Choir) performing Christmas carols. I found myself tapping my foot and singing along, swept up in the festive spirit.

The hotel’s cocktails captured the Christmas spirit in both look and flavour:

• Gingerbread Martini – Vodka, Bailey’s, gingerbread syrup, cream, and supasawa, topped with an edible gingerbread man. Creamy, indulgent, and almost too pretty to sip.

• Santa’s Sledge – A mix of bourbon, apple cider, pomegranate-infused maple syrup, orange bitters, and lemon juice. This vibrant red concoction garnished with cherries matched the festive vibes.

• Polar Light Cocktail – A striking blue serve with bold aniseed notes and a coconut rim.

Once ranked in the 200s, the Royal Lancaster now proudly holds the number one spot among London hotels. With over 320 staff, its mission is simple yet ambitious: to be the happiest hotel—for guests and employees alike.

There are plenty of accommodation options:

Christmas Eve & Day Escape – Combine the bottomless brunch with a hotel stay (from £824).
Winter Wonderland – a room overlooking Hyde Park including breakfast from £471
Enchanted Winter Suite- dressed for Christmas and paired with tickets to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (from £1409).
New Year’s Eve – Celebrate with breathtaking views of the London Eye and its spectacular fireworks with a bottle of champagne and late check out (from £811).

Dining options include:

Christmas Day bottomless brunch — located in the Park restaurant overlooking the winter Italian gardens, there’s free flowing champagne or wine with a hot breakfast buffet, fresh sushi, and traditional Christmas fare (from £275 per adult)
Nipa Thai – Authentic Thai cuisine crafted by five female Thai chefs, often hailed as the most authentic Thai restaurant outside Thailand.
The Blooming British Festive Afternoon Tea- created in collaboration with the Natural History Museum, it celebrates Hyde Park’s flowers and pollinators (from £59).
Tortello (Opening January) – A tribute to Italy’s handmade pasta tradition. Head Chef Giuseppe will showcase fresh pasta, antipasti, seasonal secondi, and artisan pizza.