Christmas is on the horizon and there’s so much to do in London prior to Santa making his annual visit.
It may be colder outside but The Cavendish offers all visitors a warm and sparkling welcome to what is proving to be an exciting month ahead in the capital.
With so much on the cards, grab yourself a cuppa and five minutes as we will tell you what you could be missing if you don’t book a stay with us soon…
A sparkling cavalcade
Kicking off the month is the motoring cavalcade that is the Regent Street motor show. Taking place on Saturday 6th November between 10.30 – 4pm on Regent Street, which will be closed to traffic for the day from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus, the event is completely free to attend and, even better, is only a short hop from the Cavendish. Showcasing 125 years of motoring, visitors will be able to see vehicles from veteran and vintage right up to modern day supercars and motorbikes. A fabulous day out even for non-car enthusiasts with loads to see and do including interactive displays and entertainment – and, of course, the shops will all be open so a great opportunity to kick start some Christmas shopping.
As it’s a free event, there’s no need to book just wrap up warm if it’s a typical November day.
Staying in Regent Street, the annual light switch on takes place from 13th November. The iconic ‘Spirit of Christmas’ angels will sparkle above the street as beautifully as always. Other nearby areas, including St James’, will glitter with lights from the 13th whilst Belgravia and Covent Garden will twinkle from the 9th November onwards.
Lights and festivities also accompany Hyde Park’s annual Winter Wonderland extravaganza. Back again after last year’s hiatus, rides and games compete with plenty of food and drink in a cornucopia of seasonal fun.
Visit circus town, the Bavarian village, Christmas market and the artic circle where you can experience the magical ice kingdom. The event starts from 19th November through to 3rd January 22. But please be aware that booking is required so please don’t just turn up. Book your tickets and time slot at www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
Pomp and remembrance
If your planned visit is in the middle of the month then you’ll be able to experience the 800 year old ceremony that is the Lord Mayor’s parade. Taking place on Saturday 13th November, the elaborate parade encompasses military marching bands, horses, dancers and, of course, the stunning golden Lord Mayor’s state coach. This iconic vehicle can only normally be seen in the Museum of London but takes to the streets once a year to travel the three mile trip from Mansion House to the Royal Courts via St Paul’s cathedral. This year’s procession for the 693rd Lord Mayor, Alderman Vincent Keaveny, can be viewed from anywhere along the route but be aware that buses and cars don’t run on parade day so tubes, walking or cycling is much better. The show begins from 11am until around 2.30pm. For full details visit
http://www.lordmayorsshow.london
Food for thought
As November moves on and thoughts turn even more to Christmas, why not start the Christmas season with a visit to the Taste of London Festival? Held at Tobacco Dock, the four day festival celebrates all things foody including winter cocktails, a mouth-watering selection of pop-up restaurants from Sri Lanka, the Caribbean and Italy plus live music and entertainment.
The historic dock will be transformed for this wonderfully magical festival and you will also be able to book onto masterclasses in drinks and join in the foodie workshops. Running between 18th – 21st November tickets cost from £17 per person for entry or go for the diners club VIP bundle at £40 to include fast track entry, a glass of champagne and two signature dishes with access to the VIP lounge. Book at
https://london.tastefestivals.com
If you wanted to jazz things up even more, then there’s always the EFG London Jazz festival too which swings into London between 12-21st November. Enjoy a fantastic programme of live gigs and performances at venues throughout the capital including Royal Festival Hall and Ronnie Scott’s along with smaller spaces such as the Omnibus theatre. Search London Jazz to view the line-up and book tickets.
And then relax
And when you’ve had your fill of a cracking London this November, just return to us here at the Cavendish to experience a haven of relaxation and calm. Enjoy a cocktail or two in the Mayfair bar and grill before retreating to your room for a fantastic night’s sleep.