It’s less than a month until the big day is upon us – Christmas. Whilst this instils fear into the majority of us (anyone else hoping for a festive miracle to sort their Christmas shopping out for them?!), December also offers the best excuse to mingle and have a mulled wine or two in the most gorgeous of settings. Here at the coop, we are quite the Christmas hotspot aficionados; thus, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite festive locations to bring you the ultimate guide to December socialising.
Ice skating at Somerset House, as chosen by account executive Sophie
“It’s an annual tradition of mine to head into London for a Christmas themed shopping trip, ending with a festive ice-skating session at the gorgeous Somerset House. Nothing will leave you feeling more Christmassy than its tree of dreams!”
The Ned, as selected by account director Izzy
“I love The Ned at Christmas – the building is so grand. It looks perfect when decked out in Christmassy lights, and the Sunday lunch is to die for – perfect for a cold winter’s day!”
Coppa Club’s festive igloos, a firm favourite with office manager Lucy
“Although they turned into party-alfresco ‘shacks’ for the summer, the igloos have returned to their cosy winter selves. A sell out in minutes, the pods are decked out with sparkling lights, fluffy blankets and festive decorations creating the perfect Instagrammable breakfast, lunch or dinner under the stars.”
The Festival of Light at Longleat, as recommended by director of PR Nicole
“The Festival of Light at Longleat is the best light show around. The lanterns are themed each year and are always incredible. The Christmas tree light show in the central square is perfect for kids with fake snow, music and holograms of Santa, the reindeer and his sleigh projected onto the buildings. There is also an old-fashioned funfair with a beautiful old carousel which is perfect for children.”
The Lyric Theatre’s Christmas play, Nicole’s second festive highlight
“Each year we go to the Lyric Theatre to watch its Christmas play – this year it’s Father Christmas! It’s one of the oldest theatres in London and again, is the ideal place to feel festive.”
The Bordeaux Christmas market, as chosen by PR co-ordinator Riah
“There is a wonderfully festive Christmas market in Bordeaux at the end of November. It has the most beautifully lit street with the smell of Christmas at every corner. If you aren’t in the Christmas spirit before visiting, you definitely are afterwards!”
The Christmas Steps in Bristol, account executive Dan’s favourite
“A quintessential slice of Bristol, the Christmas Steps is a quaint pub nestled in the crowded city centre. One of the most picturesque parts of the Old City, it boasts a warm and wholesome atmosphere inside with a cosy beer garden to match.”
Pergola on the Roof, as recommended by senior account exec Steph
“I went to Pergola in Paddington and the weekend and it felt so Christmassy. Its decorations and warm, enclosed atmosphere make it feel like a giant grotto. It’s a great one for drinks with large groups of friends too!”
Blenheim Palace, founder Vic’s festive favourite
“My winter hotspot would have to be Blenheim Palace. I take my daughter, Grace, every year and we love it. Oh, and of course, nothing beats Liberty over the festive period. The most Christmassy place of all!”
Duck & Waffle, senior account exec Tabby’s new pick
“I finally went to Duck & Waffle for the first time last week and was in awe of how festive it is at this time of year. Fake snow is scattered everywhere, ice skates are strewn about the place and there’s even a sleigh to sit and have drinks in! Its 24-hour opening makes it perfect for Christmas too. I may have even booked a table for 6am on New Years Day…”
