The iconic London hotel that is officially the most Christmassy hotel in Europe

London goes all out for Christmas. Now that we’re just four weeks away from the big day, dozens of Christmas markets have popped up across the city, hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights have been switched on and pantos have begun. Add London’s embrace of the festive season to that the fact that it’s is home to some of the finest hotels in the world, and it’s no surprise that one of our luxury establishments was just named the most Christmassy hotel in all of Europe. 

We enlisted the help of travel writer and Christmas fanatic Clara Hogan to help us curate a list of Europe’s most festive hotels for 2025. Opulent institutions in Paris, Rome, Vienna and Switzerland all made the cut, but the number one spot went to London’s very own Claridge’s. 

Clara said: ‘Claridge’s has been a Mayfair institution for over a century, and at Christmas it’s at its best. Art Deco marble gleams underneath garlands, afternoon teas are served beneath twinkling lights, and the atmosphere is so royal you half expect William or Kate to stroll past (it wouldn’t be the first time).’

The hotel runs a three-night festive package that runs from December 23 or 24 and includes mince pies and carrots for kids to place on the mantlepiece, a visit from Father Christmas and his elves, carol singing, a horse-drawn carriage ride around Mayfair and, of course, a hearty Christmas lunch.

But the best thing about the luxury hotel at this time of year is its famous Christmas tree display, which has become a cultural event in itself. Every year, the tree in the lobby is decorated by a leading fashion designer. Louis Vuitton, Diane Von Furstenberg, Jimmy Choo and Dior artistic director Kim Jones have all had their turn, and for 2025, it’s been designed by Burberry’s Daniel Lee. 

The 16ft fir, which was revealed on November 25, is adorned with 600 bows made from surplus Burberry fabric, hanging bells, thistles and chess-piece ornaments inspired by the brand’s Equestrian Knight. 

You don’t splash out £800 on a room hotel in order to see the installation, it’s open for any member of the public to come in and admire.  Our top tip is to book the hotel’s festive afternoon tea (featuring Christmas pudding, black forest Christmas tree far and roast turkey sandwiches) in advance, and if you’re after a picture of the tree, go early in the morning to avoid the crowd. 

See the full list of Europe’s best festive hotels here.

ICYMI: The best Christmas sandwich in London for 2025 has been crowned by Time Out. 

Plus: When every major London Christmas market returns for 2025 – full list of markets and dates.