London Christmas Family Guide

We split our stay between Andaz London and St. Ermin's and much preferred St. Ermin's. Its location was far more central, getting around was much easier, and the area itself felt like the version of London most people probably hope for on a first or family trip.

St. Ermin's was especially strong because you can walk to many of the main tourist sights, and when you do need transit, the Tube makes the city very manageable. By contrast, Andaz felt farther out and less natural as a family base.

The highlight of the trip was the Harry Potter Studio Tour day trip, which was spectacular and absolutely worth building around if your family cares about it at all. We had to buy those tickets well in advance because they do sell out.

We also did Winter Wonderland, which was fun even though it was absolutely packed. That one was easier to handle last minute and we bought those tickets the week of.

My daughter and I also went to an Arsenal match, which was really fun despite the depressing 0-2 scoreline against West Ham. Outside of the bigger ticket items, we especially enjoyed spending time in Chelsea, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square.

London worked very well as a family city overall, but it is expensive. The Tube made most of the city easy to navigate, though traveling over Christmas and Boxing Day was more difficult and some areas felt surprisingly dead.

Our best meal was at The Cinnamon Club, and Chez Antoinette Victoria was also excellent for brunch. We also did the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea at One Aldwych, but it was not worth the price. Sushi Samba in east London was good, but it also felt like what it is: a polished chain rather than a uniquely memorable London meal.