Discover London's best christmas pubs for this festive season

Best Christmas Pubs in London

Nothing beats the magic of a London pub decked out in twinkling lights and festive decorations during Christmas time.

We’ve spent countless winter evenings exploring London’s most enchanting Christmas pubs, from centuries-old taverns with roaring fires to modern rooftop bars transformed into winter wonderlands. Each offers its own unique take on holiday cheer, complete with mulled wine, seasonal ales, and that warm, cosy atmosphere only British pubs can deliver.

Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate this festive season? We’ve handpicked London’s most spectacular Christmas pubs, from the famously decorated Churchill Arms to the historic Holly Bush. Whether you’re planning a festive night out with friends or seeking a cosy corner for a winter warmer, these pubs deliver the perfect mix of Christmas charm and traditional British hospitality.

The Churchill Arms – Kensington’s Christmas Icon

When we think of iconic Christmas pubs in London, The Churchill Arms stands as the crown jewel of festive decoration. We’ve watched this historic Kensington establishment transform into a spectacular holiday beacon year after year, and this season’s display might be their most impressive yet.

Churchill Arms Christmas Decorations and Display

The moment we approach The Churchill Arms, we’re struck by what can only be described as a Christmas tree spectacular. This year, we’re witnessing their most ambitious display featuring:

• 55 Christmas trees adorning the exterior
• Over 300,000 LED lights creating a magical glow
• A charming ‘Letters to Santa’ postbox beside the main entrance
• Sustainable decorations using energy-efficient LED technology

What impresses us most is the dedication behind this festive transformation. The entire team spends nearly a month creating this magical display, and we can confirm it’s worth every minute of their effort. The switch-on ceremony, happening at 5 pm daily, transforms Kensington Church Street into a winter wonderland that stops traffic and draws crowds from across London.

Churchill Arms Festive Menu and Drinks

Inside, we’re greeted by an equally enchanting scene. Breaking away from traditional pub fare, we’ve discovered that The Churchill Arms offers a unique culinary experience. The pub serves an impressive selection of Thai dishes, from aromatic green curries to fiery noodle specialities. This unexpected fusion of British pub atmosphere and Thai cuisine creates a distinctive dining experience.

The drinks selection maintains the pub’s British heritage with:

• Fuller’s ales on tap
• Craft beers
• An extensive wine list
• Traditional spirits

Churchill Arms Location and Booking Details

Built in 1750, this historic establishment holds a special place in London’s heritage, having been frequented by Winston Churchill’s grandparents. We find it fascinating that this connection led to the pub’s naming after World War II.

Location: 119 Kensington Church Street, W8 7LN (A short walk from Notting Hill Gate tube station)

Important Booking Information: During the festive period, we recommend noting these details:

• Walk-ins only during peak Christmas season
• Regular operation until early January
• Evening displays illuminate from 5 pm until closing

Inside, we’re surrounded by Churchill memorabilia lining the walls, while the ceiling showcases the pub’s other claim to fame – its Chelsea Flower Show-winning plant displays. During Christmas, these usual floral arrangements make way for festive decorations, creating an cosy atmosphere that perfectly complements the exterior spectacle.

The Churchill Arms represents everything we love about Christmas pubs in London – historic charm, spectacular decorations, and that indefinable festive magic that makes the season special. We’ve seen many decorated pubs across the capital, but none quite matches the Churchill Arms’ commitment to creating a truly memorable Christmas experience.

The Holly Bush – Hampstead’s Festive Haven

Nestled atop a quiet leafy hill in Hampstead, we’ve discovered what might be London’s most atmospheric Christmas pub. The Holly Bush, with its centuries-old charm, transforms into a magical winter retreat during the festive season.

Holly Bush Christmas Atmosphere and Decor

As we step through the historic doorway, we’re immediately enveloped by the warmth of multiple roaring fireplaces. The 18th-century wood panelling gleams in the soft glow of vintage lighting, while tasteful Christmas decorations complement the pub’s natural character. We particularly love how the three intimate bar areas each offer their own unique festive atmosphere:

• The main bar sparkles with subtle Christmas lights reflecting off the dark wood furnishings
• The Romney Room showcases traditional decorations against its historic backdrop
• The Lady Hamilton room offers a cosy setting with its original fireplace as the centrepiece

Holly Bush Winter Menu and Seasonal Specials

We’re impressed by the pub’s commitment to seasonal excellence, especially during the festive period. The Christmas menu brings together classic British fare and innovative dishes, all prepared with seasonal ingredients by their dedicated chefs.

Festive Highlights Include:

• Usk Valley turkey breast with all the traditional trimmings
• Slow-braised beef served with seasonal vegetables
• Extensive selection of vegan and vegetarian options
• Carefully curated wine list complementing the seasonal menu

What sets The Holly Bush apart from other Christmas pubs in London is their unique Supper Club, featuring Michelin-starred chefs who create special seasonal menus in the Romney and Lady Hamilton rooms.

Holly Bush Historical Charm and Location

The building’s history fascinates us as much as its present-day charm. Originally constructed in the 1790s as a house, it later served as the Assembly Rooms before finding its true calling as a pub in 1928. We find it remarkable how the Grade II-listed building has maintained its original features while evolving into one of London’s most beloved Christmas pubs.

Historical Features We Love:

• Original 18th-century wood panelling
• Historic fireplaces that still warm guests today
• Traditional cask ale serving system

Essential Visitor Information:

• Address: 22 Hollymount, Hampstead, London, NW3 6SG
• Best Time to Visit: Early evening when the fireplaces are lit and the Christmas atmosphere is at its peak
• Booking: Advance reservations recommended during the festive season, especially for the Supper Club events

The pub’s location in Hampstead adds to its appeal, surrounded by boutiques and elegant Georgian buildings. We find the walk through Hampstead’s quaint alleys, especially when they’re dusted with winter frost, adds to the magical Christmas experience. From the pub’s hilltop position, we can sometimes catch glimpses of London’s skyline through the winter mist, creating an almost fairytale-like setting.

Since Fuller’s Brewery acquired the pub in 2010, we’ve watched them maintain the perfect balance between preserving its historic character and ensuring modern comforts. The result is a Christmas pub that offers both timeless charm and contemporary service, making it one of our favourite festive destinations in London.

The Mayflower – Thames-side Christmas Magic

Tucked away along the historic Thames riverbank, we’ve found a Christmas pub that offers something truly unique – the chance to celebrate the festive season where the Pilgrim Fathers once gathered. The Mayflower, London’s oldest riverside pub, transforms into a magical Christmas haven during the winter months.

Mayflower Christmas Decorations and River Views

We’re enchanted by the pub’s traditional approach to Christmas decorations. Unlike the extravagant displays of some London pubs, The Mayflower embraces a more authentic festive charm with:

• Candlelit tables casting warm glows across ancient wooden beams
• Classic Christmas trees adorning the cobbled entrance
• Twinkling lights reflecting off the Thames waters
• Cosy open fires perfect for winter gatherings

The jewel in The Mayflower’s crown is its original decked jetty, where we’ve spent countless evenings watching the sunset over the Thames while enjoying mulled wine. During high tide, we experience the unique thrill of water splashing through the authentic wooden floorboards – a reminder that we’re dining above one of London’s most historic waterways.

Mayflower Festive Food and Drink Selection

This year’s Christmas offerings showcase the pub’s commitment to traditional British fare with a modern twist. The festive menu presents excellent value, with pricing as follows:

We’re particularly impressed by their seasonal specialties, including swordfish ceviche with avocado and lime, traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, and pan-fried sea bass with crushed new potatoes. For dessert, the Christmas pudding with brandy sauce maintains tradition, while the chocolate tart with vegan ice cream offers a contemporary alternative.

The drinks selection reflects the pub’s historic character, featuring well-kept traditional ales, craft beers, and an impressive range of local gins. During our winter visits, we’ve found their mulled wine to be among London’s finest – perfectly spiced and warming.

Mayflower Historical Significance and Location

What sets this Christmas pub apart is its remarkable heritage. Standing at the exact spot where the Mayflower ship moored in 1620, we’re dining in a location that played a pivotal role in American history. In July of that year, 65 passengers began their historic journey from this very point, leading to the founding of Plymouth Colony.

The pub’s historical connections run deep – Captain Christopher Jones, who commanded the Mayflower’s famous voyage, lies buried in nearby St. Mary’s church. We find it particularly moving to celebrate the festive season in a space where, over 400 years ago, the Pilgrim Fathers gathered before their momentous journey.

Essential Details:

• Location: 117 Rotherhithe Street, SE16 4NF
• Nearest Station: Rotherhithe
• Christmas Bookings: Advance reservations essential, especially for Christmas Day
• Special Features: Original 1620 mooring point visible from the deck

We recommend arriving before sunset to experience the full magic of this historic Christmas pub. The combination of river views, candlelight, and centuries of history creates an atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere in London’s festive pub scene.

The Spaniards Inn – Historic Christmas Charm

Standing proudly since 1585, we’ve found The Spaniards Inn to be among London’s most historically enchanting Christmas pubs, where centuries of yuletide celebrations echo through its time-worn walls.

Spaniards Inn Christmas Traditions and Decor

We’re captivated by how this Grade II-listed building embraces the festive season while honouring its rich heritage. The traditional wood panelling, warmed by the glow of the open fire, creates an atmospheric backdrop for Christmas celebrations. During our visits, we’ve noticed how the pub maintains its authentic character while adding subtle festive touches:

• Traditional garlands adorning ancient wooden beams
• Vintage-style Christmas lights illuminating cosy corners
• Handcrafted wreaths complementing historical features
• Roaring open fires creating that perfect winter ambiance

Spaniards Inn Seasonal Menu and Drinks

This year’s festive offerings have particularly impressed us with their blend of traditional favourites and contemporary touches. The Christmas menu structure offers excellent flexibility:

We’ve sampled the festive menu extensively, and standout dishes include the Chicken Liver & Brandy Parfait with hedgerow chutney, and the Hand-Carved Turkey Breast served with all the traditional trimmings. For those seeking alternatives, we recommend the Pan-Roasted Cod with king prawns or the innovative Cranberry, Swede, Almond & Walnut Roast for plant-based diners.

The drinks selection deserves special mention. We’ve found their winter beverage offerings particularly impressive, featuring both traditional favourites and creative seasonal specials. The pub takes pride in its:

Premium Selections:

• Craft beers and real ales on rotation
• Artisan spirits and sophisticated wines
• Contemporary cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders
• Low and no-alcohol alternatives

Spaniards Inn Location and Booking Information

Situated on the edge of Hampstead Heath, we find this historic pub perfectly positioned for post-walk refreshments or cosy evening gatherings. The location details are:

Essential Information:

• Address: Spaniards Road, Hampstead, London, NW3 7JJ
• Nearest Station: Hampstead Tube Station
• Opening Hours: Traditional pub hours with extended Christmas season timing

For Christmas bookings, we strongly advise noting these important details:

• Festive menu reservations require £10 per person deposit
• Christmas Day bookings need £20 per person deposit
• Full Christmas Day payment required by December 1st
• Pre-orders needed 7 days before booking date

During our numerous visits, we’ve learned that the pub’s popularity during the festive season makes advance booking essential. The deposit system, while formal, ensures a smooth experience during the busy period. We’ve found the staff particularly accommodating with special requests when given adequate notice.

The pub’s historical significance adds an extra layer of charm to Christmas celebrations. We love sharing the tales of famous patrons who have graced these halls over centuries, including literary giants like Keats and Dickens. The building’s original features, from the weathered wooden floors to the authentic fireplace, create an atmosphere that modern establishments simply can’t replicate.

What truly sets The Spaniards Inn apart from other Christmas pubs in London is its ability to maintain its historical integrity while delivering contemporary comfort and service. We’ve watched as they’ve masterfully balanced preservation with innovation, ensuring that each Christmas celebration here feels both timeless and fresh.

The Queen of Hoxton – Modern Christmas Spirit

For those seeking a more contemporary take on Christmas pubs in London, we’ve discovered a true gem in Shoreditch. The Queen of Hoxton offers a refreshingly modern interpretation of festive cheer, proving that Christmas magic isn’t confined to centuries-old establishments.
Queen of Hoxton Winter Rooftop Experience

We’re absolutely captivated by this year’s transformation of the rooftop into “The Queen’s Starry Night” winter wonderland. Drawing inspiration from Van Gogh’s masterpiece, we’ve found ourselves immersed in a dazzling display of twinkling lights and artistic charm. The space features:

A heated yurt offering cosy refuge from winter chills
Three warming fire pits perfect for gathering with friends
German market-style setup with covered bar areas
Stunning views across the Shoreditch skyline

What impresses us most is the attention to detail in creating an immersive experience. The rooftop comfortably accommodates up to 180 winter revellers, and we’ve noticed how the careful placement of heating elements ensures comfort even on the chilliest London evenings.
Queen of Hoxton Festive Cocktails and Events

The festive drink selection here has consistently impressed us with its creativity and seasonal flair. The winter cocktail menu features innovative concoctions that we believe perfectly capture the spirit of a modern Christmas celebration:

Signature Winter Warmers:

Polar Espresso Martini
Hot Buttered Rum
Bramble Mulled Wine
Winter Cider (specially crafted with Absolut)

The food offerings embrace the German market theme, which we find adds an authentic touch to the winter experience. We particularly enjoy their selection of:

Winter Comfort Food:

Bratwurst and beef frankfurter hot dogs
Chicken schnitzel burgers
Vegan alternatives for all main dishes
Crispy potato wedges and mac ‘n’ cheese

What sets this venue apart from other Christmas pubs is their innovative event calendar. We’ve experienced their “Drag & Waffle Bottomless Brunch” on Saturdays, which brings a uniquely festive twist to daytime celebrations. The combination of bottomless prosecco, waffles, and entertainment creates an atmosphere that’s distinctly different from traditional Christmas pub experiences.
Queen of Hoxton Location and Opening Hours

Located just a five-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, we find this venue perfectly positioned for both after-work gatherings and weekend celebrations. Here’s when you can visit:
Day Indoor Hours Rooftop Hours
Wednesday 5pm – 12am 5pm – 9:30pm
Thursday – Friday 5pm – 2am 5pm – 9:30pm
Saturday 6:30pm – 2am (Brunch: 11:30am – 2pm) 2pm – 9:30pm
Sunday – Tuesday Closed Closed

Location Details:

Address: 1 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 3JX
Nearest Stations: Liverpool Street or Old Street

We strongly recommend booking in advance during the festive season, especially for weekend visits. The rooftop’s popularity means spontaneous visits can be challenging, particularly during peak hours. It’s worth noting that rooftop access is weather-dependent, so we always suggest calling ahead to confirm opening status during inclement weather.

The venue offers various booking options for Christmas celebrations, from intimate gatherings to corporate events. We’ve found their party packages particularly well-thought-out, offering different levels of festive indulgence to suit various preferences and budgets.

What truly distinguishes Queen of Hoxton from other Christmas pubs in London is its ability to blend modern entertainment with festive tradition. While historic pubs offer timeless charm, we appreciate how this venue creates new Christmas traditions for a contemporary audience. The combination of innovative theming, creative cocktails, and dynamic events provides a fresh perspective on London’s Christmas pub scene.

The Cadogan Arms – Chelsea’s Christmas Hideaway

Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, The Cadogan Arms stands as a testament to two centuries of London’s pub culture, and we’ve found it to be one of the most enchanting Christmas pubs in London this festive season. Recently restored to its former glory, this historic institution perfectly balances traditional charm with contemporary sophistication.

Cadogan Arms Festive Atmosphere and Decor

As we step into The Cadogan Arms, we’re immediately struck by its warm wooden interior and the inviting glow of a real fireplace. The pub’s Christmas transformation is nothing short of magical, with elegant decorations complementing its sophisticated renovation. The ground floor buzzes with festive energy, while comfortable armchairs create cosy corners perfect for winter evenings.

What truly sets this venue apart is its thoughtful design elements – from the custom-designed stained-glass wall in the Rose Room to the carefully preserved architectural features that tell stories of celebrations past. During the festive period, the pub becomes even more atmospheric with its traditional Christmas decorations and ambient lighting creating an unmistakably festive atmosphere.

Cadogan Arms Christmas Menu and Drinks

We’re particularly impressed by their specially curated festive offerings. The Christmas menu showcases the best of British produce with a sophisticated twist. Some standout dishes include:

• ‘Pigs in Blankets’ Scotch Egg (a creative festive twist)
• Roasted Crown of Turkey with all the trimmings
• Winter Fruit Crumble served with vanilla custard
• Game pie with braised red cabbage

The pub offers two distinct festive dining experiences: a family-style Festive Feast menu perfect for group celebrations, and a more intimate Festive Dining menu available throughout the week. Their drinks selection includes carefully selected wines, bespoke beers, and classic cocktails with a seasonal twist.

Cadogan Arms Location and Reservations

Located at 298 King’s Road, The Cadogan Arms is perfectly positioned in the heart of Chelsea’s festive celebrations. The venue offers various spaces to suit different occasions:

We recommend booking well in advance for the festive season, especially for their popular private dining experiences. The Rose Room, with its private horseshoe bar, makes an ideal setting for Christmas parties and celebrations. For larger groups, they offer full-venue hire options.

Reservations can be made up to three months in advance for regular bookings, or six months ahead for larger parties. The pub welcomes well-behaved dogs, making it perfect for those who want to include their four-legged friends in the festivities. For special events or private hire, their dedicated events team can help create bespoke experiences, including tailored drinks receptions and customised menus.

The Prince Blucher – Twickenham’s Festive Gem

Standing proudly on Twickenham Green since 1815, The Prince Blucher has transformed into one of our favourite Christmas pubs in London, combining centuries of history with modern festive charm.

Prince Blucher Christmas Decorations and Ambiance

We’re particularly impressed by the pub’s unique approach to Christmas decorations this year. On December 2nd, we witnessed their first-ever community Christmas tree decorating event, where local families came together to create their own ornaments. This personal touch makes The Prince Blucher stand out among London’s Christmas pubs, as each decoration tells a story of the local community.

The garden area takes on a magical quality during the festive season, with local Christmas pop-up stalls showcasing handmade crafts. We love how the traditional pub atmosphere blends seamlessly with the festive spirit, creating a warm and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.

Prince Blucher Seasonal Food and Drink Offerings

The highlight of this year’s festive calendar is their Winter Beer Festival on December 20th, starting from 4 PM. We’re excited about their impressive drink selection:

• Signature Fuller’s London Pride
• Special winter brews from Jawbone Brewing
• Twickenham Ales seasonal offerings
• Dark Star Hophead
• Fuller’s seasonal selections

The evening promises to be spectacular with carol singers from Holy Trinity Church setting the festive mood, while local musicians Lucca Mae and Laurie Wright provide entertainment from 7:30 PM.

Their Christmas celebrations extend beyond just drinks, with a comprehensive festive programme:

Prince Blucher History and Location Details

We find the pub’s rich history fascinating – it was the first new public house in Twickenham since the 1750s when it opened its doors. The name comes from a Napoleonic War hero, reflecting its establishment during that historic period. In 1893, it even played host to the founding meeting of the local rugby club, cementing its place in Twickenham’s sporting heritage.

Located at 124 The Green, Twickenham, we find it perfectly situated for both locals and visitors. It’s particularly convenient being just 650 metres from Strawberry Hill station, with excellent bus connections (routes 110, 490, and H22) making it easily accessible from central London.

For those planning Christmas celebrations, we recommend booking well in advance. The pub offers various spaces for different occasions, and their Christmas Day menu is priced at £90 per person. We’re impressed by their commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering both traditional Christmas classics and contemporary options. Their dedicated team, led by manager Georgios, can be contacted at 020 8894 1824 for reservations and special arrangements.

The Gun – Docklands Christmas Experience

As we venture into London’s Docklands, we discover The Gun, a magnificent Grade II listed pub offering one of the capital’s most unique Christmas experiences with its stunning Thames-side location and rich maritime heritage.

Gun Christmas Decorations and River Views

We’re captivated by The Gun’s spectacular riverside terrace, which transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the festive season. The covered outdoor space offers breathtaking views across the Thames to the O2, creating an enchanting backdrop for Christmas celebrations. Inside, we find the pub beautifully adorned with traditional Victorian-inspired decorations, perfectly complementing its historic architecture.

A highlight of this year’s festivities is the special performance of “A Christmas Carol” on December 14th, complete with Victorian costumes and ghostly apparitions. We particularly love how the pub maintains its intimate atmosphere despite its grand setting, with cosy corners and a covered riverside terrace perfect for winter gatherings.

Gun Festive Menu and Wine Selection

The Christmas dining experience at The Gun is nothing short of exceptional. Their festive set menu, priced at £59 per person, showcases refined British cuisine:

We’re impressed by their commitment to sourcing, with 85% of ingredients coming from within 25 miles of the pub. Their Christmas offerings include:

• Traditional festive classics with modern twists
• Extensive wine list and craft cocktails
• Small-batch gin selection
• Seasonal British ingredients

Gun Historical Background and Location

Located at 27 Coldharbour, Docklands, The Gun’s fascinating history adds an extra layer of charm to the Christmas experience. We’re intrigued by its connection to Lord Nelson, who frequently visited while living nearby. The pub’s name originates from the cannon that announced the opening of the West India Import Docks in 1802.

What fascinates us most is the River Room, where Lord Nelson allegedly conducted his secret meetings with Lady Emma Hamilton. Today, this historic space serves as an elegant private dining room, perfect for intimate Christmas gatherings.

After experiencing a significant fire in 2001, the pub underwent a three-year restoration, emerging as the stunning venue we see today. The renovation carefully preserved its historical features while introducing modern comforts, including the popular Gin Garden, which has been sponsored by Sipsmith.

For Christmas celebrations, we recommend booking well in advance, especially for their private dining spaces. The pub offers a convenient weekday lunchtime taxi service for Canary Wharf workers dining from the à la carte menu, making it an ideal spot for corporate Christmas lunches.

Their annual carolling event has become a local tradition, featuring Dickensian carol singers, a festive hog roast, and warming mulled wine. We find it’s these thoughtful touches that make The Gun one of London’s most distinctive Christmas pubs, combining historical charm with contemporary festive celebrations.

The Argyll Arms – Mayfair’s Christmas Haven

Just steps from the bustling Oxford Circus, we’ve discovered a Victorian masterpiece that transforms into one of London’s most spectacular Christmas pubs during the festive season. The Argyll Arms, with its Grade II listed status, offers an extraordinary blend of historical grandeur and seasonal magic.

Argyll Arms Victorian Christmas Atmosphere

We’re immediately struck by the pub’s late Victorian opulence, dating back to 1868. The moment we step through the doors, we’re transported to a world of intricate architectural splendour, enhanced by thoughtful Christmas decorations that complement the pub’s historical features perfectly.

What makes this venue truly special are its original Victorian elements:

• Ornate mirrored walls reflecting twinkling Christmas lights
• Spectacular decorative ceilings adorned with festive garlands
• Historic etched glass partitions, once known as “snob screens”

The pub’s Christmas transformation pays homage to its Victorian heritage, with traditional decorations creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. We particularly love how the original features, including the beautifully preserved wood panelling and etched glass, create intimate spaces perfect for festive gatherings.

Argyll Arms Festive Food and Gin Selection

This year’s Christmas offerings have impressed us with their attention to detail and variety. The Christmas Day menu, priced at £88 per person, presents a four-course feast that includes:

For more casual celebrations, we recommend their festive buffet options:

• Silver Buffet (£20.50 per person) – Perfect for smaller gatherings
• Gold Buffet (£25.50 per person) – Comprehensive selection including beef brisket croquettes
• Vegetarian Buffet (£18.50 per person) – Thoughtful meat-free alternatives

Argyll Arms Location and Booking Information

We find the location at 18 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TP incredibly convenient, especially for those combining Christmas shopping with festive drinks. The pub’s proximity to Oxford Circus makes it an ideal meeting point for holiday celebrations.

Opening hours during the festive season are carefully planned to accommodate various celebration schedules:

• Monday to Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm
• Friday to Saturday: 11 am – 12 am
• Sunday: 11 am – 10:30 pm

Special holiday hours apply:

• Christmas Eve: 12 pm – 10 pm
• Christmas Day: 12 pm – 6 pm
• Boxing Day: 12 pm – 10 pm

We strongly recommend making advance reservations, especially for Christmas Day dining or group celebrations. The pub offers various spaces suitable for different group sizes, and their attentive staff, including the welcoming duty manager Maria, ensure each visit feels special.

For larger gatherings, we’ve found their buffet packages particularly well-organised, requiring bookings at least 10 days in advance. The minimum group size for buffet options is 10 guests, making it perfect for office Christmas parties or family gatherings.

What particularly impresses us is the pub’s commitment to maintaining its historical charm while offering modern Christmas comforts. The original features, including the intricately designed snob screens and mirrored walls, create an atmosphere that’s both festive and historically fascinating. We’re told that these screens once served to separate different social classes, though today they simply add to the pub’s unique character and create cosy nooks perfect for intimate Christmas celebrations.

The Flask – Highgate’s Winter Wonderland

Deep in the heart of Highgate Village, we’ve uncovered a Christmas gem that’s been spreading festive cheer since 1663. The Flask, a Grade II listed treasure, offers what we consider to be one of the most atmospheric Christmas experiences among London’s historic pubs.

Flask Christmas Decorations and Cosy Corners

We’re immediately charmed by the pub’s warren of passages and nooks, each decorated with thoughtful festive touches that complement its centuries-old character. The Flask’s Christmas transformation this year particularly impresses us with its two real fires creating that perfect winter warmth we all crave during the festive season.

What sets this pub apart is its unique layout of interconnected rooms, each offering a different Christmas atmosphere. The original stable block, dating back to 1663, features two preserved 17th-century horseboxes that create intimate dining spaces perfect for festive gatherings. We’re particularly drawn to the main bar area, where the original shutter-window bar with its distinctive bullseye glass panels sparkles under seasonal decorations.

The Committee Room, once the scene of historical intrigue, now serves as an elegant private dining space, while the former cellar area offers what we consider the cosiest spot in the house, complete with leather armchairs and window seats perfect for watching the winter world go by.

Flask Seasonal Menu and Drink Offerings

This Christmas, The Flask has outdone itself with a spectacular festive menu priced at £115 per person. The carefully curated Christmas Day experience includes:

We’re particularly impressed by their commitment to seasonal British ingredients, with dishes that perfectly balance tradition and innovation. Their festive drinks selection showcases:

• An extensive range of real cask ales
• Carefully selected world wines
• Continental lagers
• Craft spirits and seasonal cocktails

Flask Historical Features and Location

Situated at 77 Highgate West Hill, The Flask boasts a fascinating history that makes our Christmas visit even more special. The pub’s name originates from its tradition of selling flasks to collect water from nearby springs, and we’re intrigued by the natural spring still present at the rear of the property.

The historical features that captivate us include:

• Original 1720s main body structure
• Authentic shutter-window bar with bullseye glass
• 17th-century stable block with preserved horseboxes
• Historic Committee Room with period features

We’re fascinated by the pub’s literary connections – Byron, Shelley, and Keats were regular visitors, often meeting here with Coleridge, who lived opposite for 18 years. William Hogarth’s presence is still felt through his portrait in the old cellar room.

The Flask’s Christmas opening hours accommodate various celebration needs:

• Monday to Saturday: 11:00 – 23:00
• Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
• Christmas Day: 12:00 – 17:00
• Boxing Day: 12:00 – 22:30

For private events, we find the venue offers excellent options. The former cellar and Committee Room can be hired for atmospheric Christmas gatherings, though we strongly recommend booking well in advance during the festive season.

What truly sets The Flask apart from other Christmas pubs in London is its unique combination of historical authenticity and festive charm. The building’s Grade II listed status ensures its architectural features remain preserved, while the thoughtful Christmas decorations enhance rather than overshadow its period character.

During our visits, we’ve noticed how the pub’s layout naturally creates different atmospheres throughout the day. The main bar buzzes with festive energy, while the former cellar provides a quieter retreat. The Committee Room, with its intriguing history, offers an elegant setting for Christmas celebrations, and we particularly enjoy how the original stable block has been transformed into intimate dining spaces perfect for winter evenings.

The Flask’s Christmas transformation extends beyond mere decorations – it’s about creating an immersive festive experience that honours the pub’s rich history while catering to contemporary tastes. From the warming glow of real fires to the carefully preserved architectural features, every element contributes to what we consider one of London’s most authentic Christmas pub experiences.

London’s Christmas pubs offer magical experiences that capture the essence of British festive traditions

We’ve explored venues ranging from the spectacularly decorated Churchill Arms to the historic charm of The Holly Bush, each delivering its own unique take on seasonal celebrations.

These carefully selected pubs showcase the best of London’s festive hospitality – whether you seek the riverside magic of The Mayflower, the centuries-old atmosphere of The Spaniards Inn, or the contemporary rooftop wonderland at Queen of Hoxton.

Our extensive visits have confirmed that advance booking remains essential for these popular venues during the festive period. While exploring these remarkable establishments, we recommend booking your Christmas celebration at the Prince of Peckham in Peckham or their sister pub, the Queen of the South Pub in Tulse Hill.

Remember that each pub brings something special to London’s Christmas scene – traditional decorations, seasonal menus, festive drinks, or stunning historical settings. These venues transform ordinary evenings into memorable Christmas experiences, proving why London’s pubs remain unmatched in their ability to create perfect festive atmospheres.

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