Best Christmas Dinner In London 2026

The Ritz is synonymous with grandeur, and on Christmas Day it pulls out all the stops. Inside the two Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant, executive chef John Williams MBE and his team present an exquisite six-course feast, highlighting the very best of British seasonal produce with signature finesse.

It's not just the food that makes the day unforgettable. Expect live music from a band, pianist and vocalist, a caricaturist bringing light-hearted fun, and a magical visit from Father Christmas himself, complete with gifts for younger guests.

• Location: 150 Piccadilly, St James's, W1J 9BR
• When: 25th December 2026 
• Price: £460 per adult and £300 per child
• Why we recommend: with timeless elegance, flawless service and festive theatre, this is Christmas dining at its most indulgent - the definition of a special celebration

This festive season, iconic London hotel The Savoy is setting an extraordinary stage for holiday dining as part of its Around the World in 80 Days collaboration with Liberty London and Champagne Laurent-Perrier.

At the centre of the culinary celebrations is Gallery, where you're guided through soaring hot air balloon installations to enjoy limited-edition seasonal Afternoon Teas for both adults and children throughout the period. The dining experience reaches its pinnacle on Christmas Day with an indulgent, celebratory four-course feast featuring all the classic trimmings. You can also begin or end your meal on the forecourt, sipping Laurent-Perrier Champagne, mulled wine, or hot chocolate beside a dramatic hot air balloon pop-up bar.

• Location: The Strand, Covent Garden, WC2R 0EZ
• When: December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: TBC
• Why we recommend: if you can't treat yourself at Christmas, when can you? Which is exactly why we're putting the brilliant The Savoy on our list. It's opulence at its best, and there's a range of feasts fit for everyone's tastes

Few places do festive grandeur quite like this iconic St James's restaurant. With a history that includes visits from literary greats and royalty alike, dining here on Christmas Day feels like stepping into a timeless London tradition, all with a lavish seasonal menu to match.

Settle into plush velvet banquettes and prepare for a feast of citrus-cured salmon with kohlrabi, roasted bronze turkey with fondant potatoes, and a decadent pear and chocolate gâteaux to finish. A Christmas meal fit for kings, queens, and everyone in between.

• Location: 16 Bury Street, St James's, SW1Y 6AJ
• When: from 17th November onwards
• Price: three courses for £95 per person
• Why we recommend: we love this storied West End institution that pulls out all the stops in December, making it one of the most indulgent ways to spend Christmas

Browns Brasserie & Bar Covent Garden on St Martin's Lane has style on its side, featuring plush armchairs mixed with ornate ceilings, glistening chandeliers and draped curtains for a relaxed yet upmarket ambience.

Their daily festive dining menu comes in at £57.50 per person for three courses, with options such as duck liver parfait or roasted butternut squash soup to start. As for mains, sink your teeth into warming classics, such as turkey with cranberry stuffing and garlic-thyme roasted potatoes, as well as glazed pork belly and a root vegetable nut roast.

• Location: 82-84, St Martins Lane, Covent Garden, WC2N 4AA
• When: 10th November - 31st December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £57.50 per person
• Why we recommend: we think that Browns Brasserie & Bar Covent Garden has a brilliant upmarket feel and a high-quality dinner menu that allows you to feast in style, without breaking the bank 
• Special offer: you get a complimentary glass of sparkling wine for every guest booked between 10th and 30th November, and can snag three courses for £50 on Mondays and Tuesdays from the 10th November to the 8th December

For a Christmas meal that feels truly regal, The Rubens at The Palace has you covered. Inside, The English Grill serves up indulgent seasonal menus (two courses for £49, three for £55 for dinner) with highlights like chicken liver parfait, traditional roasts and elegant small plates, all paired with expertly mixed cocktails.

Prefer something with spice? Head to The Curry Room, where you'll find Indian-inspired feasts. They're also running a special Christmas Day lunch for those skipping the cooking at home, alongside festive afternoon teas throughout the season for a lighter celebration.

• Location: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, Westminster, SW1W 0PS
• When: November and December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: two courses for £49, three for £55 per person (The English Grill_
• Why we recommend: we feel this five-star setting delivers festive dining with flair, offering everything from refined grills to vibrant Indian feasts - all just steps from Buckingham Palace

Palm Court transforms for Christmas with whimsical festive afternoon teas, inspired by The Langham's heritage. Children enjoy playful patisseries shaped like snow bears, while adults can indulge in a traditional afternoon tea infused with nostalgic festive twists.

For lunch and dinner, The Langham offers a seasonal menu that balances elegance with comfort. Highlights include delicate amuses such as smoked duck or Jerusalem artichoke tartelettes accented with pickled plum and winter truffle, followed by starters ranging from gin and beetroot cured salmon paired with Oscietra caviar to British burrata and game terrine. Mains include Appledore Farm free-range bronze turkey with all the traditional trimmings, aged beef fillet, poached Scottish halibut, or a root vegetable pithivier. The dining experience finishes on a high note with a banoffee ice cream cone pre-dessert, as well as classic options like The Langham Christmas Pudding with brandy custard.

• Location: 1C Portland Place, Marylebone W1B 1JA
• When: 9th November 2026 - 4th January 2027
• Price: five courses for £260 per person
• Why we recommend: Palm Court brings a touch of Hamleys' magic to The Langham's timeless elegance, combining festive flair with refined culinary delights for both adults and children

Christmas at Sketch last year is an alpine wonderland experience, where artists and florists have transformed the restaurant into a 'painting that never dries' - inspired by the word of apres-ski. Think dining by candlelight, cosy chalets, gondolas and, of course, plenty of mulled wine.

Sketch itself is home to multiple venues to choose between for your festive feast, including the three Michelin star Lecture Room & Library, the Gallery (gastro brasserie), and the neo-90s parlour - all serving British, Irish and European-influenced cuisine.

• Location: 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, W1S 2XG
• When: November 2026 - January 2027
• Price: TBC
• Why we recommend: Sketch is a luxurious destination with multiple restaurants to choose between for your Christmas dinner, whether food in an enchanted forest room or three Michelin star spot The Lecture Room & Library are more your thing. Each year, a new festive installation is brought to life at this very special venue too

The Coal Shed brings its signature fire-cooked brilliance to Christmas dining with rich, celebratory flavours designed for generous, long-table feasts. You can start with indulgent bite-sized options like British rock oysters and beef fat-fried truffle celeriac snacks before moving to a set menu.

Begin with the likes of black fig and bitter leaf salad with Stilton, or fiery chilli lime prawn tostadas and burrata laced with 'nduja. Mains elevate traditional winter comfort, featuring Coal Shed roast turkey breast accompanied by sausage meat stuffing and maple-glazed pigs in blankets, alongside cranberry harissa glazed salmon or a rich Shorthorn ribeye steak. Every main comes paired with essential festive sharing sides like garlic roasted potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, and Brussels sprouts with chestnuts and bacon. The meal rounds out with classics like warm treacle tart with clotted cream, a delicate winter berry pavlova, and homemade mince pies for the table.

• Location: One Tower Bridge, 4 Crown Square, London Bridge, SE1 2SE
• When: November 2026 - January 2027
• Price: three courses for £70 per person
• Why we recommend: we think that The Coal Shed takes festive dining up a notch with smoke and fire, delivering bold, highly shareable dishes perfect for group celebrations

Festive dining at The Ned is your chance to gather around the table and indulge in the spirit of the season with our thoughtfully curated set menus, perfectly tailored for grand celebrations and lively group gatherings.

At Electric Bar & Diner, for £75 per person, enjoy a playful, classic menu featuring indulgent bites like devilled eggs, smoked turkey, rich lobster rolls, and more. Or, over at Millie's Lounge, it's all about a classic three-course experience (£90 each) featuring tender roast turkey with all the trimmings, whole roasted lobster, and a decadent sticky toffee pudding to wrap up the evening. For £90 per person, Cecconi's also offers a sophisticated three-course showcase, featuring signature spaghetti lobster, comforting veal ossobuco, and a classic tiramisu to finish on a sweet note.

• Location: 27 Poultry, City of London, EC2R 8AJ
• When: from 23rd November 2026
• Price: menus from £75 per person
• Why we recommend: whether you want a lively, crowd-pleasing feast at Electric Bar & Diner, classic roast turkey at Millie's Lounge, or refined Italian lobster and ossobuco at Cecconi's, The Ned offers something for every group under one grand roof

Come in from the cold and make yourself right at home at Coppa Club London Bridge this holiday season. Enjoy an open invitation to celebrate in whatever way suits your group best, from casual fireside drinks to a proper sit-down feast.

Their festive set menu balances classic holiday indulgence with thoughtful modern options, featuring starters like chicken liver parfait or spiced pumpkin soup, mains ranging from traditional roast turkey crown with all the trimmings to roasted harissa cauliflower steak, and puddings like Bramley apple and fig crumble or classic Christmas pudding with brandy butter ice cream.

• Location: 3 Lower Thames Street, London Bridge, EC3R 6AH
• When: from 16th November 2026
• Price: two courses for £43, three for £48 per person
• Why we recommend: at £48 for three courses, it offers one of the most competitively priced full-course festive set menus in central without sacrificing quality or ambience

A fairy tale-like setting featuring a glass-roofed conservatory, open fires, twinkling fairy lights and cherry blossom trees, the French country house-inspired Clos Maggiore is a stunner all year round. But at Christmas, it comes into its own even more with classy decorations alongside menus influenced by France and Italy.

As part of its Christmas Eve menu, you can expect the likes of Sutton Hoo chicken with mushrooms 'vin jaune style', and Charlotte potatoes, as well as sea trout with grilled sand carrots, yuzu kosho, and smoked salmon sauce.

• Location: 33 King Street, Covent Garden WC2E 8JD
• When: 24th December 2026
• Price: three courses with a Welcome glass of bubbles for £85 per person
• Why we recommend: already an oh-so-romantic dining destination, Clos Maggiore is ideal for a Christmassy dinner date with your beau. Not only do they decorate with festive yet classy touches in the festive period, but also serve a menu with French and Italian influences

Located just a stone's throw from St Paul's Cathedral, The Trading House isn't your average pub; it's nestled in a stunning Grade II-listed building, boasting tall, grand ceilings, ornate panelled walls and quirky taxidermy mounted on the walls - a unique and memorable location for your Christmas dinner. There's even regular live music if you fancy a bit of entertainment.

Whether you book a group table or hire a private space, you can dig into their three-course festive set menu. Ease into the evening, nibbling on starters such as Korean fried chicken or fried Camembert bites, before moving on to comforting mains like hanging turkey kebabs, pan-fried seabass or a mushroom pie. As for dessert, make sure to try the sticky toffee pudding. 

• Location: 89-91 Gresham Street, City of London, EC2V 7NQ
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses from £48.95 per person
• Why we recommend: we thank that The Trading House has a great, affordable Christmas dinner that feels special. You can tuck into its famous hanging kebabs with a festive twist, and top everything off with a cheesecake served alongside a mulled wine and spiced winter berry coulis 

The George on Great Portland Street is a Grade II-listed, 18th-century pub that's as beautiful as it is iconic, having held famous writers and poets within its lovingly restored walls. Find velvet green booths nestled beside ornate, patterned walls lined with vintage artwork, as well as eye-catching ruby red private dining rooms complete with glistening chandeliers.

You can tuck into The George Feast Menu (£110 per person), which showcases a range of dishes shared family style, with a minimum of four people. Just a heads up that this menu needs a 72-hour preorder notice, but let us tell you, it's worth it -  Christmas Scotch egg, smoked salmon or chicken liver parfait to start, followed by an indulgent beef Wellington with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.

• Location: 55 Great Portland Street, Fitzrovia, W1W 7LQ
• When: 16th November 2026 onwards
• Price: set menus from £55 per person
• Why we recommend: The George is an absolutely stunning pub nestled in the heart of Central London. We think your Christmas meal will feel super cosy and wholesome, and with the likes of a sausage- and pancetta-filled Scotch egg on the menu, who could say no?

A Michelin-starred restaurant located in Mayfair's Berkeley Square, Benares Restaurant & Bar specialises in Indian fine dining. Its contemporary design features sultry, dark decor and lots of cosy private rooms filled with shelves of wine, while its refined lounge contains a beautiful, ornate pond decorated with fresh flowers.

Since opening in 2003, these guys have been passionate about providing delicious food, with a kitchen team that combines quality British ingredients with traditional Indian cooking techniques. This Christmas, you can enjoy several different festive menus from £51 per person, including everything from tempered yellow lentils to chicken stir-fry and slow-cooked paneer.

• Location: 12a Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1J 6BS
• When: 15th November - 30th December 2026
• Price: tasting menus from £51 per person
• Why we recommend: we think that Benares Restaurant & Bar serves impeccable Indian cuisine with a fine dining finesse, and Christmas is no different. Our pick from the menus? Chicken and fresh fenugreek simmered in buttered tomato gravy - delicious

Found at the base of iconic skyscraper The Gherkin, The Sterling is certainly striking, pairing luxe booth seating with marble-style tables, glossy white-tiled walls and pretty potted plants. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration, as this City venue is offering three-course Christmas menus, showcasing mains such as roasted hake fillet with winter root vegetables, braised beef bourguignon pie accompanied by mashed potato, and of course, classic roast turkey.

For an added luxurious touch, opt for the deluxe menu (three courses for £60), an elevated menu featuring the likes of truffle and Champagne risotto, roast fillet of salmon with Cornish crab crushed potatoes, and so much more.

• Location: The Gherkin, 30 St Marys Axe, Liverpool Street, EC3A 8BF
• When: December 2026
• Price: three courses for £49.50 per person
• Why we recommend: heading to one of London's most famous landmarks for a Christmas meal should feel special, we feel, which is why we suggest booking a spot at The Sterling. This cool restaurant has a range of festive dishes on offer, including the option to upgrade and really treat yourself and your loved ones 

The Milestone Hotel and Residences' Chenestons Restaurant is blowing it out of the water this festive season over in Kensington. On Christmas Eve, you can dive into a six-course dinner (£245 per person, £112.50 per child), which includes gorgeous bites like hand dived scallop with chorizo crumb, and apple, port and goat's curd tarlet, not to mention, indulgent mains such as slow-braised shoulder of lamb croquette and North Atlantic halibut with caviar and Champagne veloute.

Heading over on the 25th of December? You'll be pleased to hear that delights like Dorset crab salad, lobster raviolo, Highland venison tartare with truffle, and potato and gruyere terrine are up for grabs (£325 per adult, £165.50 per child). Plus, for mains, you'll be treated to succulent turkey, dry-aged beef, stuffed Dover sole, or a celeriac, parmesan and truffle pithivier.

• Location: 1 Kensington Court, Kensington, W8 5DL
• When: November and December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £110 per person 
• Why we recommend: this place is one of our favourites as it has a luxury feel to it, and is a great shout if you're looking to push the boat out a little with your Christmas dinner this year 

With a bespoke party planning service that is as hassle-free as it is personal, Devonshire Terrace on Liverpool Street has got your Christmas party all wrapped up. The stylish venue is home to cosy armchairs and candlelit tables, as well as a range of private dining rooms.

Their fantastic three-course Christmas menu (£54.95) has something for all tastes, offering a range of classic dishes such as roast parsnip soup and chicken liver pâté, not to mention a gorgeous roast turkey served with all the trimmings, including pigs in blankets and roast potatoes. Dessert-wise, get ready for Christmas pudding drizzled in custard and a chocolate truffle torte.

• Location: Devonshire Square, Liverpool Street, EC2M 4WY
• When: November - December 2026 
• Price: three courses for £54.95 per person
• Why we recommend: we feel this spot offers an affordable Christmas dinner in London, particularly so close to the heart of the city. The sleek decor makes the space feel a little snazzy, and there's a brilliant drinks menu to accompany your festive eats 

Head to Farringdon or Covent Garden, where The Piano Works is spicing up your December with a little live music (where you request your favourite songs from the live band), making it a great spot for a group or work Christmas dinner in London.

The party pros are welcoming you into their underground venue, where you can choose between buffets, canapés, bowl food or a three-course meal. Think turkey roulade, beetroot carpaccio and pan-roasted cod, or you can even pick a festive brunch.

• Location: 113-117 Farringdon Road, EC1R 3BX or Gillian Lynne Theatre, Parker Street, WC2B 5PW
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses from £35 per person
• Why we recommend: we like our Christmas dinners with entertainment, and that's exactly what The Piano Works provides, with full bands playing music, pianists and more. There's also a DJ who'll take your celebrations late into the night

The Folly, from the Drake & Morgan collection, is one of the best Christmas dinner places London has to offer. Located in Monument, this bar and restaurant is ideally located for work parties in the City. 

Make your way to this botanical venue to get your hands on a delicious three-course meal for £54.95, where you can try mains like roast turkey (with pigs in blankets, stuffing, roast potatoes and vegetables), or 12-hour braised ox cheek, served with truffle mash, watercress velouté and winter cabbage.

• Location: 41 Gracechurch Street, City of London, EC3V 0BT
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses for £54.95 per person 
• Why we recommend: The Folly makes a great Christmas dinner location if you work in the City of London. We think it ticks all the boxes when it comes to pretty decor (it always dresses up for the season), top food and drinks

Old Compton Brasserie is a trendy restaurant in the heart of Soho, featuring stylish interiors made of red leather booths, white marble tables and chic, artistic light fixtures. As for their Christmas menu, it's nothing short of indulgent, with a lunch sitting costing just £45.95 per person and dinner for £55.95.

Though there are plenty of starters to get excited about, we've got our eye on the rillette of salmon served with pickled fennel, whisky and clementine gel, dill oil and a baguette wafer. As for your main course? Think Christmas turkey, fillet steak, roasted seabass, slow-roasted leg of lamb, or cauliflower steak. To finish on a high note, enjoy sticky toffee pudding, Cropwell Bishop Stilton with chutney and biscuits, or end on a boozy note with the salted caramel espresso martini (£12).

• Location: 34-36 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 4TR
• When: 23rd November - 23rd December 2026
• Price: three courses for lunch for £45.95 per person, of £55.95 for dinner
• Why we recommend: we adore how this signature Soho restaurant gets decked up for Christmas, and its festive menu is certainly something to shout about. We can't resist finishing our dinner with a salted caramel espresso martini 

Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is a strong contender for the best place to have Christmas dinner in London, England, with a mix of velvet and leather seating and warm tones throughout, not to mention incredible views of the City from the rooftop. Speaking of which, on the terrace you'll find winter igloos where you can enjoy private dining, complete with faux fur blankets and Grey Goose cocktails.

You can delight in a Christmas dining set menu, featuring three courses from £49.95 per person (depending on whether you visit off-peak or not). Fill your boots with treats like goats cheese and fig tart with candied pecans, roast cod with sea vegetables and Grenobloise sauce, and classic roast turkey with all the trimmings, before finishing with a plum Bakewell tart and Chantilly cream.

• Location: Royal London House, 22-25 Finsbury Square, City of London, EC2A 1DX
• When: December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses from £49.95 per person
• Why we recommend: we think this spot makes a great dining destination come December, thanks to its gorgeous views of city landmarks, like the Gherkin, the Shard and the Thames. You can enjoy all this and more, snuggled up in an igloo with some delicious food

A gorgeous gastropub opposite the Barbican Centre, The Jugged Hare is a top choice for your family Christmas dinner in London. The kitchen at this ETM pub is led by Executive Chef Rafael Liuth, who has an incredible breadth of knowledge when it comes to game and high-quality seasonal produce. 

Settle into the eye-catching restaurant, which features ox blood leather booths, shiny white tiles and images of taxidermy on the walls, to delve into their Christmas menu. Dig into Peterhead cod with sea vegetables and a garlic and brown butter sauce, the classic roast Norfolk Bronze turkey with all the trimmings, before finishing with a sticky toffee pudding with salted caramel sauce.

• Location: 49 Chiswell Street, City of London, EC1Y 4SA
• When: November - December 2026 
• Price: three courses for £49.95 per person
• Why we recommend: this cosy pub offers you the chance to indulge in quality British dishes cooked with love in a cosy Christmas setting - it's an award-winning game restaurant, so make the most of its produce

Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is a stunning spot for your festive dining in London, boasting an elegant indoor dining area mixing walnut tables with rich green leather seats, as well as a rooftop terrace featuring amazing views of the City alongside pretty private igloos.

You can go for three courses starting from £69.50 per person, with starters featuring duck liver parfait with damson, monkfish tail with cep purée and truffle butter, before moving on to a traditional ballotine of turkey with all the trimmings. Finish off with a St Emilion au chocolate withcrème fraiche.

• Location: 68 King William Street, City of London, EC4N 7HR
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses for £69.50 per person
• Why we recommend: the view of the City of London is unmatched at Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, plus the added extra of having your own private igloo adds something special to your festive dining experience 

For a London Christmas dinner filled with prime cuts of Argentine steak, alongside other beef-based delights and delicacies from the country, Gaucho Covent Garden is your best bet. Plus, there are private hire options for those all-important parties.

Its festive set menu comes in at £65 per person, and features the likes of Gaucho-cured smoked salmon to start, followed by turkey ballotine or rump and chips. We suggest rounding things off with a dulce de leche cheesecake for a truly fabulous time. 

• Location: 8-9 James Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BT
• When: December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £65 per person 
• Why we recommend: we think this restaurant is great for meat lovers at Christmas who are looking to devour a scrumptious turkey ballotine with some signature Gaucho starters to accompany

For a fab Christmas dinner, London's Boulevard Brasserie in Covent Garden has got you covered. Inside the 1960s-style restaurant, you'll get to delve into a range of classic festive mains, all while drinking bubbles across the glamorously decorated three-storey space.

Feast on chicken liver parfait to start (or our favourite, baked brie in filo with a good dollop of cranberry chutney), followed by beef bourguignon, or a traditional Christmas turkey, served with roast potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, pigs in blankets, sage and sausage stuffing, cranberry sauce and a red wine jus. Delicious. 

• Location: 40 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BD
• When: 23rd November - December 2026
• Price: three courses for £45.95 per person
• Why we recommend: it feels magical tucking into French cuisine and Christmas dinner at this pretty abode in Covent Garden - a great spot for a bit of shopping afterwards, too
• Special offer: early birds can bag three courses for £39.95 from the 23rd November to the 1st December 

Best known for its weekly lineup of entertainment, Albert's Schloss Soho is also a great choice for Christmas dinner in Central London, especially with a German twist. While sipping on steins of Bavarian beer or creative cocktails, you can enjoy two or three courses, starting at £50 per person.

Tuck into everything from roasted pork knuckle with apple sauce to a Gruyère cheese and onion soup, followed by an indulgent chocolate roulade.

• Location: 20-24 Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho, W1D 7EU
• When: 9th November - 27th December 2026 
• Price: two courses for £50 per person, or three for £58
• Why we recommend: there's always something going on at Albert's Schloss Soho, thanks to its daily lineup of free entertainment, and we love pairing that with a festive feast - the sauerbraten beef Wellington is delicious 

Situated on the top of the Page 8 Hotel in the bustling West End, Kitty Hawk Rooftop Bar & Restaurant promises great views while you dine. Look out over the city while surrounded by elegant interiors that feature vibrant orange booths and a well-stocked bar along one wall. What's more, there's an outdoor terrace too.

This Christmas, you can munch your way through three courses of seasonal eats, starting from £49 per person. Expect everything from smoked salmon rillette with horseradish crème fraîche and blinis to roast cod with sea vegetables and Grenobloise sauce, and classic roast turkey with all the trimmings. Top it all off by sharing chocolate mousse with cherries, pistachio, and amaretti.

• Location: 8 St. Martin's Place, Soho, WC2N 4JH
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses for £49.95 per person
• Why we recommend: perched high up in the sky above Soho, this rooftop spot fronts great views and is a cool place to enjoy a three-course festive meal in the city, overlooking keen shoppers below

Famous for its Christmassy exterior, The Churchill Arms is home to over 90 hung conifer trees and an insane number of Christmas lights every year, with their light switch-on every November an event in and of itself.

The pub, which is filled with memorabilia of the former prime minister to reflect its name, is a unique spot for having a Christmas dinner - and not just because of the decorations inside and out. The Thai kitchen here will rustle you up a treat in no time.

• Location: 119 Kensington Church Street, Notting Hill, W8 7LN
• When: from 12th November 2026
• Price: a la carte - mains from £14 per person
• Why we recommend: The Churchill Arms is the famous Christmas pub in London, home to a stunning frontage that's hung with Christmas trees and illuminated by hundreds of lights, so you can have the most festive Thai dinner here

The flagship bar from Drake & Morgan, this King's Cross restaurant is spread across two elegant floors and is offering a three-course festive set menu for £49.95 per person. 

To start, you can expect plates such as parsnip soup or beetroot-cured salmon, while for mains you can choose from 12-hour braised ox cheek, roast turkey with all the trimmings, potato gnocchi, and so much more. Finish things off with a choice of dessert or cheese platter, and add some extra sparkle with a drinks package.

• Location: 6 Pancras Square, King's Cross, N1C 4AG
• When: November - December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £54.95 per person
• Why we recommend: we think this restaurant is in a great location and offers an affordable festive feast, with the option to upgrade with a glass of Laytons Brut Reserve on arrival, and half a bottle of Miron Del Mar Sauvignon Blanc or Los Camachos Pinot Noir

Rick Stein Barnes is the spot for a memorable Christmas dinner, offering a cosy ambience, refined décor, and a menu of festive seafood delights. Relax by the river and savour dishes that bring a fresh twist to holiday flavours.

On the menu, you can expect to tuck into the likes of gravlax with a mustard and dill sauce to start, followed by mains of braised fillet of haddock with chestnut mushrooms. For dessert? Christmas pudding, of course.

• Location: Tideway Yard, 125 Mortlake High Street, Barnes, SW14 8SW
• When: 21st November - 30th December 2026
• Price: two courses for £44 per person or three for £50
• Why we recommend: we love the riverside views of the Thames that Rick Stein Barnes provides - it's the perfect setting to tuck into some fresh seafood among festive decor. The braised fillet of haddock with chestnut mushrooms is a particular highlight 

Red Lion, a beautiful, traditional-style pub, is an atmospheric location for a traditional Christmas lunch in London. Settle into the gorgeous dining room, which features panelled walls, wooden accents and intimate lighting, to eat gorgeous festive fare.

Indulge in three courses for £49.95 each, and begin with beetroot-cured salmon, or a king prawn cocktail. For mains, there's turkey, wild mushroom, spinach and celeriac pithivier and more, and dessert really tops things off with a moreish sticky toffee Christmas pudding - the best of both worlds.

• Location: 2 Castelnau, Barnes, SW13 9RU
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: two courses for £45.95 per person, or three for £49.95
• Why we recommend: we've got our eyes set on the sticky toffee Christmas pudding at this homely Barnes pub. It's one of the many reasons why it makes our Christmas dinner guide

With its panoramic outlook across the Thames, Sail Loft is a Christmas dining spot that feels both dramatic and welcoming. The seasonal menus deliver everything from traditional roasts to elegant veggie creations, alongside desserts that will tempt even the fullest of diners. Add in a glass of fizz or a fine wine, and you're set for a celebration to remember.

Expect starters like whipped chicken liver parfait, before moving on to slow-braised beef cheek or turkey with all the trimmings, finishing with a rich chocolate and coffee opera cake. Bigger group? No problem, as the buffet spreads here are designed with parties in mind.

• Location: 11-15 Victoria Parade, Greenwich, SE10 9FR
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: two courses for £45.95 or three for £49.95 per person
• Why we recommend: we feel this pub has unbeatable river views through sweeping glass windows, paired with a menu that's made for festive indulgence

Exhibit is one of Balham's most famous bars, and for good reason. If you fancy something extra magical, book a table in their Winter Garden, a fully covered, heated space featuring a sleigh centrepiece and a snow machine, or one of their many private rooms for hire.

This December, Exhibit is serving up a delicious three-course Christmas set menu for £39.95 (with a minimum of eight guests); standout dishes include the Brussel sprout salad for starters, the classic roast turkey dinner for mains, and the chocolate brownie with whipped cream for dessert.

• Location: 12 Balham Station Road, Balham, SW12 9SG
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: three courses for £39.95 per person (minimum of eight) 
• Why we recommend: we think that The Exhibit in Balham not only makes a great Christmas party menu, but also whips up a fabulous and fun festive dinner too. The space, adorned with fairy lights, feels magical, and we can't imagine a better place to tuck into some pudding and pull some crackers in South West London 

Prepare for the festive season at Megan's with their fabulous seasonal menu, which comes in at £49.99 for four courses. Step into a twinkly wonderland and indulge in a Mediterranean feast with all the trimmings - at their gorgeous restaurants everywhere from Balham to Chiswick and Islington.

Tuck into sharing starters like hot honey pigs in blankets and Turkish cheese fondue, before indulging in mains like open turkey kebabs and slow-cooked lamb cassoulet. Plus, they'll throw in mulled wine and mince pies for afterwards.

• Location: across London
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: two courses for £34.99, three for £39.99 and four for £44.99 per person
• Why we recommend: these stunning restaurants put a Mediterranean twist on all the usual festive meals, and wherever you are in London, there's bound to be a Megan's nearby

Nestled in a Grade II-listed Victorian building, The Duke's Head in Putney offers a beautiful, grand setting for your festive dining. While surrounded by tall, curtain-draped windows with views of the Thames, dig into a fantastic Christmas feast. There are plenty of private rooms available for hire, too, if you're hosting a big party.

Their gastropub Christmas dinner ticks all the boxes: starters include spiced butternut squash soup, smoked salmon, and ox cheek and blue cheese croquettes, to name a few. For your next course, you're spoilt for choice, with options such as turkey or beef (with goose fat roast potatoes, pigs in blankets, vegetables and gravy), pan-roasted seabream with new potatoes, or truffled mushroom and chestnut pie. There are plenty of desserts too, and we can't wait to get our hands on the apple, fig and chestnut crumble with bay leaf custard.

• Location: 8 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 1JN
• When: November - December 2026  (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £50 per person
• Why we recommend: we love this gorgeous and cosy pub in the heart of South West London, offering a tempting dinner with plenty to choose from, plus it's even open on Christmas Day, serving a three-course affair 

Bōkan takes festive dining to new heights. Set across three sleek floors of a Canary Wharf skyscraper, this award-winning restaurant is helmed by executive chef Robert Manea and offers a choice between a multi-course tasting experience or a classic three-course menu. All served with glittering 360° views of London.

Starters include warming pumpkin soup or perfectly grilled octopus, before mains like indulgent winter truffle tagliatelle or a rich duck breast. To finish, an Amalfi lemon baked Alaska ensures your Christmas meal ends on a showstopping note.

• Location: 40 Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf, E14 9TP
• When: November - December 2026
• Price: two courses for £55 or three for £65 per person, tasting experience £69
• Why we recommend: we love this restaurant as it boasts a refined, sky-high setting with a menu crafted by a top chef – ideal if you're after a truly special festive celebration

Looking for the best pubs for a Christmas dinner in London that combines old-world charm with waterside views? The Gun delivers just that. This historic venue along the Thames transforms into a festive haven with a menu brimming with seasonal favourites, hearty roasts, and indulgent puddings. A well-stocked bar of wines and cocktails makes it even more tempting.

Kick things off with starters like a retro king prawn cocktail or a warming roasted parsnip and Bramley apple soup, before moving on to turkey breast, complete with pigs in blankets, vegetables and a generous helping of cranberry sauce. If you've got room, sweet treats await - and for the true festive traditionalist, there's also the option to finish with a cheeseboard for £5 extra.

• Location: 27 Coldharbour, Docklands, Canary Wharf, E14 9NS
• When: November - December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: three courses for £67 per person
• Why we recommend: we think this Grade II-listed spot is an atmospheric riverside setting that feels both elegant and cosy – perfect for a festive get-together with colleagues or friends

A charming pub located in Chiswick, The Hound is a historic spot that's been around since 1872. It used to be a police station in the Victorian era, but now serves as a local hub of drinking, dining and good times. There's a wide variety of draught beers to enjoy, either in the main dining area or in one of many cosy private rooms.

Their festive menu is available all day long in the build-up to Christmas, with both à la carte dining and set meals to choose from. The fixed price options start from £75 per person, served sharing-style for the whole table. Expect everything from whiskey-cured salmon to roasted turkey crown, with winter fruit crumble for dessert.

• Location: 10 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick, W4 1PD
• When: 16th November - December 2026 (including 25th & 26th December)
• Price: two courses for £55 or three for £75 per person (from £50 for vegetarian feasts)
• Why we recommend: a pigs-in-blankets Scotch egg? Sign us up. This cosy pub is a great Christmas dining destination, for both its fun menu and homely interiors

If you prefer your festive meal served with a side of views, hop aboard for the Christmas Dinner Party Cruise this winter for an incredible three-course menu, DJ sets and full bar service for you to drink while you dine. 

Twinkling views of central London serve as the perfect backdrop to this luxurious dining experience, with everyone receiving a welcome drink and half a bottle of wine each to make it a night to remember. And they're also hosting a lunch that's a little more affordable. 

• Location: Lower Thames Street, City of London, EC3N 4DT
• When: November 2026 - December 2027
• Price: from £86 per person 
• Why we recommend: you won't find a Christmas dinner quite as dazzling as this, with unique views from the water and a setting that pushes the boat out