Curating family-friendly itineraries in the United Kingdom’s eclectic capital is the speciality of our award-winning Concierge team here at Brown’s Hotel. For families joining us for Christmas in Mayfair, we present our expert recommendations for memorable activities combining fun with festive cheer.
Discover the magic of Christmas
London’s premier department stores transform into glittering havens at Christmas. This year, visit Santa’s Grotto at Hamleys and Harrods’ Swarovski Secret Forest Grotto, where children can relish meeting Santa and unpacking their goodie bags as parents shop for covetable gifts. For colourful stalls, ice sculptures, fairground rides and all the festive trimmings, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland never fails to delight, or, for a more traditional treat, enjoy the spectacular acoustics of the Royal Albert Hall with a carol service.
Marvel at the seasonal lights
London’s famed festive light displays are all within walking distance of Brown’s Hotel, with the first twinkles right on our doorstep in Albemarle Street. Make a scenic loop past the glittering theatres of Piccadilly Circus on to Covent Garden’s festive market, then to Carnaby Street, where this year’s lights celebrate a fittingly eco-aware aquatic theme. Alternatively, wander over to Oxford and Regent Streets, festooned with angels, snowflakes and gleaming baubles, and stop by the Royal Academy of Arts to pick up a tasteful holiday greetings card or two.
Let off steam outdoors
Nothing inspires inexhaustible enthusiasm in little ones like the promise of a visit from Santa Claus, and keeping them active on Christmas Eve is key to ensuring they nod off later. For animal-lovers, we recommend horse-riding at Hyde Park Stables, with private and group lessons offering a picturesque trot through the ancient trees, or glide out across the ice at Somerset House’s al fresco courtyard rink, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
Enjoy unmissable festive theatre
Adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child fame, A Christmas Carol returns to The Old Vic for a third year and is a high-octane, colour-saturated introduction to the Dickens classic. For a feel-good family musical, look no further than Irving Berlin’s new production White Christmas at the Dominion Theatre, or for an ethereal display of grace and precision that captivates little ones, prepare to be awed as over a hundred dancers bring the Nutcracker to life at the Coliseum.
To ensure you experience the best of London’s fabulous displays, Christmas trees and festive produce, join us on Brown’s Christmas Walking Tour or Christmas Unwrapped Tour. Book your stay, tour or both by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or calling +44 207 493 6020.
In an era where the pace of life seems to accelerate daily, the simple act of walking offers a grounding counterpoint. For families, it’s a way to explore without pressure - to notice what might otherwise be missed: a beautiful view over rooftops or the calm of a sun-dappled path.
Travelling solo with children is a unique kind of adventure - one that blends joy, challenge, and meaningful connection. From choosing the right destination to finding moments of calm, every decision holds more weight when you’re the only adult in the room. At Rocco Forte Hotels, solo-parent travel is approached with care and an understanding of what families really need.
From London’s storied streets to the comic-daubed corners of Brussels, Rocco Forte Hotels offers a collection of suites created with families in mind. Each space is deeply connected to its surroundings, seamlessly integrating custom furnishings, local materials, and subtle references to the culture beyond its walls.
