Whether you’re crossing Waterloo Bridge in the wee hours, or taking a walk through the West End and soaking up the magic of TheatreLand, nothing compares to London when lit up in all its glory.

To celebrate the season with a few tipples, visit the capital’s unique festive-themed pop-ups and venues to raise a toast.

STAY IN CONTROL:
If you don’t want to end up with a belly like Santa, be mindful of the sugar content in your drink. Order single shots with a diet mixer or a soda with twist of fresh lime or lemon. Or go for a light beer, which can contain less than 100 calories per bottle – half the calories of a large glass of wine.

STAY FRESH:
Drinking less, or not at all, is not a sin and many Londoners are now opting to go drinkless as a lifestyle choice. There’s no need to miss out on the fun, though. Grab a fruity mocktail and get dancing. No one will even notice.

THIRST NOEL

Five places positively bursting with Christmas spirits

MR FOGG’S RESIDENCE

Mayfair

Victorian-inspired Mayfair gin parlour Mr Fogg’s Residence has created an enchanted winter botanical garden, overflowing with lush evergreens, mistletoe, holly and trees bedecked with candles, baubles, fairy lights and homemade decorations, just like it was in bygone days. Sunday is punch day, and real ales are on the menu all week long.
Mr-foggs.com

PISTE AT ARCHER STREET

Soho

Already well-known as one of the area’s top drinking spots, Archer Street has upped its game this season by offering revellers a luxurious Alpine themed après ski drinking experience without the worry of catching a chairlift home. Warm up by the roaring log fire and recline on fur-lined seats while sipping a Glacier cocktail – a fruity and spicy treat.
Archerstreet.co.uk

YORK & ALBANY

Camden

Now’s your chance to really feel like a child again at the York & Albany’s Gingerbread Winter Cabin. This stunning hotel and gastro pub, owned by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, has created a pop-up Gingerbread House nestled in a private courtyard. Drink gingerbread espresso cocktails and order a giant gingerbread man to decorate yourself.
gordonramsay restaurants.com

BLUEBIRD

Chelsea

One of Chelsea’s most reputable restaurants, in the heart of the Kings Road, has re-opened its spectacular winter courtyard; getting it dressed up in full festive glitz for the party season. Guests can enjoy an elaborate fairytale-themed experience, sitting under the stars, wrapped in luxurious lambswool throws. Indulge in a glass of Champers or Pimm’s Winter Punch.
bluebird-restaurant.com

LITTLE FEAST

Shepherds Bush

This independent food and drink pop-up venue has transformed its outdoor space into
an English winter garden. Enjoy hot mulled wine and cider sitting among the Christmas trees and beneath glittering fairy lights. Outdoor heaters and complimentary blankets will keep the chill away, as you tuck into Belgium waffles covered in chocolate sauce and fluffy marshmallows.
Wefeast.co.uk

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