During this time of year, I always go back to previous Christmases. The ones I had growing up, filled with excitement during the whole month of December, building up towards the actual day. Hanging the decorations, listening to Christmas songs on repeat and waking up early on Christmas morning to a bunch of gift wrappings on the floor and new toys laying around. These are all memories I hold dear. Growing up, Christmas turned into something different. The excitement is still there but rather than waiting for the gifts, I’m more inclined to creating memories. From meals with friends, to watching Christmas movies on the comfort of my own sofa. Spending more time with family, but also experiencing Christmas vibes in another city far away from Malta. We’ve been to Germany and its magical Christmas markets, you can read more about it here. Another city I look fondly to when thinking about Christmas, is London.

I’ve been to London several times, most of them around Christmas time. This vibrant city has so much to offer, but during the festive season, it’s a little bit more enchanting.

The streets

It is very cold in December, but the street lights and decorations make the atmosphere a bit warmer. From the overblown lights in Oxford Street, to the sophisticated ones in Regent Street and the whimsical decorations in front of Covent Garden, even the Grinchest of Grinches will get right into the Christmas spirit. 

The markets

London is well known for its markets. During the Christmas period these are obviously as glamorous as one can expect. Two of my favourite markets are Covent Garden and Camden Market. Covent Garden offers traditional crafts and baked goods. It is more the elegant kind of market. The market in Camden Town is more daring and you can find basically anything you wish for – from punk shoes and jewellery, to antique decorations. I’m not one who buys a lot of things when I’m abroad, but just browsing around the different shops is something which amuses me. Camden Town offers the perfect opportunity for this, especially with the weird and interesting items hanging on the shop facades, this market is definitely something not to be missed. 

Then there is Winter Wonderland. This is something else, entirely. Hyde Park is transformed into this huge Christmas market, with ferris wheels, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, food cabins, craft stalls, drinking areas with live music. It’s the place to be if you love Christmas, or if you love the alcoholic beverages that come with it 😉 

And if you’re not feeling that Christmassy…

London has so much more to offer! My favourite attraction is the Tower of London, but I’m a history geek especially for the Tudors era. So I will visit anything related to that – palaces and whatnot. If you’re not into history, the large parks are always the medicine for the soul. A quick stroll in Kensington Gardens, stopping to watch the swans swim by, or a squirrel race across the path, is the perfect break from the chaotic life that the city can turn out to offer. On the other hand, pubs offer that cosy feeling, with British comfort food, beer and that little bit of cheery Christmas vibes.

But all in all, I always feel like London has something to offer for everyone. During Christmas time, it all looks a bit extra magical. And even though this year I’m spending the holidays at home in Malta, going back through these London photos brought back so many sweet memories. So here’s to creating more beautiful Christmas memories!

What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future.

Agnes M. Pahro