29 unmissable things to do in magical London in December 2024

Experience festive magic at The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre

Christmas is finally here and it's even more magical in London than ever before through a child's eyes. If you have a youngster who has never been to the theatre and you want to ease them into the world of performance, you need to check out The Snowman stage show, which is showing at the Peacock theatre until 4 Jan 2025.

The stage adaptation of the iconic book by Raymond Briggs depicts the incredible, enchanting story of the snowman that came to life over Christmas, travelling to the North Pole. 

A must-see for children and parents who will also remember the iconic 1982 film, the beautiful snowy set will captivate little ones and the costumes are just so special. Watch the Snowman realistically 'fly' and listen to the heartwarming accompanying music. It's also great for young children as it's not too long - one hour 50 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

To book The Snowman, book via the ticket office: 020 7863 8000 or www.sadlerswells.com

Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion & Beauty News Editor

Pick up bargain gifts at London's O2 Outlet

Christmas came around quickly, didn't it? If you're feeling the pressure to pick up some last minute Christmas presents, the O2 Outlet in North Greenwich is home to an array of ace outlet shops, spanning from Ted Baker to Gant. If you're buying for a fashion lover, high-end accessories at heavily discounted prices can be picked up in Dune or Carvela, whilst sportwear steals can be found in Nike, New Balance and Adidas. 

There is everything you could possibly imagine from indulget chocolatiers to bargain beauty outlets, making it the perfect place to swing by and snap up some last minute Christmas presents you'd think were bought on the upper end of the high street.  

It's also much calmer than the ever-busy Oxford Street, so you won't need to worry about battling crowds to secure your perfect Christmas present. 

Wrap up for a cosy festive evening at Dovetale's Winter Terrace

Nestled in London's Mayfair be prepared to be transported to an Alpine Ski Lodge at Dovetale's Winter Terrace. In collaboration with The Singleton Whisky and Casamigos Tequila and seasonal specials, this beautiful winter terrace has the best festive cocktails to indulge in.

Wanting to embrace the festive season, I visited with a friend one frosty evening after work. With bespoke wreaths adorning a warm fireplace, birch trees lining the walls and cosy recycled wool blankets we felt as if we were taken back to après ski.

With sweet and savoury fondue sets available, we opted for an indulgent chocolate set full of marshmallow pieces of waffle and banana, as well as Michelin-starred Chef Tom Seller’s The Singleton mince pies, dusted with cinnamon sugar and paired with vanilla ice-cream for a superb festive treat! 

Dovetale Terrace isn't the only winter escape to explore, there are actually three woodland huts within the village including Casamigos tequila. This special curated pop-up is a must-visit with a festive Casamigos hot margarita. As this is outside, make sure to wrap up warm and pack those gloves for this ultimate winter hideaway!

Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer

Enjoy a decadent festive afternoon tea at The Londoner

For the most decadent of festive afternoon teas, head to The Londoner, a beautifully luxurious hotel situated in the heart of the West End. 

Located in the hotel's Champagne Bar, The Stage, this quintessentially festive afternoon tea in association with Maison Ruinart, served daily from 12:30pm - 4pm. We dined on seasonal sandwiches (our highlight was the roast beef), fresh scones and handcrafted patisseries curated by chefs using traditional flavours, all accompanied with The East India Company’s loose leaf teas or Champagne from The Stage’s most favoured maisons, delivered via a bar cart.

The handcrafted patisseries are an actual joy, and if you can't quite manage both of your puddings while there, you can ask to take one home - the service is impeccable, with no request too much trouble for the wait staff. The decor is beautiful too, with plus velvet chairs and Christmas decorations to marvel at.

For bookings visit The Londoner.

Reviewed by HELLO! Shopping team

Experience Christmas in the Woods Afternoon Tea at The Westin

If you ask me, the ultimate group experience to share with friends or family members has to be an indulgent afternoon tea. This year,  The Westin has curated a special Christmas in the Woods Afternoon Tea as a memorable festive activity. 

Available until 5 January 2025, the offering includes Christmas-themed treats, like roasted turkey with cranberry sandwiches (mmm!); caramel coconut wood rolls; and blood orange custard, pistachio and cranberry cupcakes. There’s ten loose-leaf teas from JING Tea to choose from - which if you’re a tea fanatic like me, you’ll really enjoy. Or if you’re more of a champagne lover, then you can opt for a glass of Taittinger or get into the Christmas spirit with some delicious homemade mulled wine.

The afternoon tea, which starts from £45, is also family-friendly with it's very own children’s menu available. Kids - and adults alike - will no love the woodland-themed festive decorations throughout The Westin - my favourite was the ginormous Christmas tree surrounded by cute decorative polar bears.

For reservations, visit hitheandseek.com

Have an ultra special Christmas dinner

For an alternative Christmas dining experience, why not treat yourself to a special meal at Gordon Ramsay’s Lucky Cat restaurant in Mayfair? Open on Christmas Day, the sultry venue features dark interiors and is currently decked out with a large, light-up tree. It's a lovely place to get dressed up and enjoy a memorable dining experience, and just a stones throw away from the magical Christmas lights at Grosvenor square.

The Asian-inspired menu offers a different take on traditional Christmas dinner - with a tempting sashimi selection, maki rolls and dumplings featuring cult classics. The stars of the show though, in my opinion, are the Korean spiced black cod and spiced lamb chops, both of which are seasoned to perfection. They were presented beautifully, tasted succulent and were also filling main dishes.

For dessert, trade in your traditional Christmas pudding and instead opt for Lucky Cat's limited-edition baked alaska dessert, a citrus saké-soaked biscuit, sorbet and meringue masterpiece. It can be shared between four and is flambéed at the table for your entertainment. The matcha mont blanc and rum-spiced baba are close runners up! Plus, if you can't make Christmas, then a similar menu is on offer for New Year's Eve, from 6pm.

For reservations, visit gordonramsayrestaurants.com

Experience a festive river cruise along the Thames

The London Thames Christmas Lunch Party is a great way to do something different with colleagues or friends this festive period. During a three-hour jaunt on the Thames past some of London’s iconic riverside landmarks, you are first welcomed with a glass of bubbly before tucking into a traditional three-course delicious festive feast. 

The live music accompanying the feast ensures revellers truly get into the party spirit and up on the dancefloor in no time. Featuring a fully stocked bar and unlimited tea & coffee, you'll be leaving happy and full of festive spirit.

Soak up the Christmas spirit with Windsor Great Park Illuminated

If you're up for getting on a train, just a short distance outside of London from Waterloo lies Windsor. For a festive evening out with the family (and dogs, if you're so inclined!) look no further than the beautiful lights show in the King's back garden, Windsor Great Park. 

Surrounded by ancient oak trees, it's a perfect opportunity for little ones to run around safely, while enjoying the incredible lights and Christmas music in the park. If you're hungry, there's a great range of dining options for you to sample, from pizza, burgers, and Korean fried chicken, to churros and crepes. 

Wrap up warm and enjoy the dazzling festive display. 

To book tickets, head to the website: https://www.windsorilluminated.com 

Reviewed by: Millie Jackson, Content Managing Editor 

Cosy up at Everyman's newest cinema in Stratford

It’s safe to say the Everyman chain of boutique picture houses have changed the cinema scene in the capital. With several locations across the city, you’ll find plush, reclining armchairs, delicious food, bespoke cocktail menus and a cool and cosy vibe in each.

If you're based in East London, Stratford is the newest home of Everyman's shining new cinema, perfect for sinking into the plush velvet armchairs and catching up on the latest blockbusters. 

To book for your next movie night, visit www.everymancinema.com

Ring in the New Year with a futuristic bingo game at Hijingo

There is no better place to spend a festive night out than at Hijingo - a high energy, high tech gaming experience for the thrill-seeking socialite. 

This alternative bingo experience provides the ultimate show, accommodating 200 players within an 8,000 sq. ft space at 40 Worship Street, just five minutes from Liverpool Street Station. A multi-sensory experience, Hijingo combines live entertainment with stadium grade lighting, bespoke video, music and audio effects to create unparalleled drama for an audience of players. 

Not to mention out-of-this world food and drink offering will fuel players with street food dishes, reworked classic cocktails and local superstars, all with an Asian twist. From prawn spring rolls and pork skewers to classic burgers, players can expect generous plates of street food favourites with banging flavours. Must-sips include the slushy hero drinks, craft beer and Tokyo-nights inspired shots.

Looking for somewhere special to spend NYE? Head to Hijningo from 9pm and enjoy seven exciting rounds of Hijingo bingo. Your night will include a welcome cocktail, bottomless drinks, delicious late-night sharing plates, and a live DJ spinning tracks to keep the party going until 2am with an unforgettable after-party. 

To book, visit www.hijingo.com

Have the ultimate night out at ABBA Voyage

ABBA fans, rejoice! You’ll love a night out at the ABBA Voyage, which uses cutting-edge technology to bring the Swedish pop phenomenon to life. 

Complete with dazzling light effects in a custom-built London venue, expect to hear some of the greatest hits from the group’s 50-year career, including fan-favourites Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen and The Winner Takes It All. 

Perfect for an unforgettable evening with friends or loved ones, the tickets are well worth the price as the show provides the perfect festive season entertainment.

To book tickets for ABBA Voyage, visit abbavoyage.com

Head to TOCA Social for a fun-fuelled festive day out

For a Christmas outing packed with fun, food, and festive cheer, TOCA Social at The O2 is the place to be. With dazzling decorations, this one-of-a-kind venue combines interactive football games with a mouthwatering festive menu, making it a must-visit this December.

I recently visited with my football-obsessed son, and he was in his element. From the moment we stepped into the immersive games box, he scored goals and climbed the leaderboard while I tried my best to keep up. The venue is designed to appeal to all ages and abilities, but football fans will be especially thrilled with the chance to test their skills in a fun, competitive setting.The festive atmosphere added even more magic to the experience. 

Whether we were playing football, playing in the arcade machines, or taking photos in the booths, every corner offered something exciting.The Christmas menu was another highlight. I couldn’t resist the honey-glazed pigs in blankets and juicy beef hotdogs, while my son devoured crispy roast potatoes dripping with rich beef gravy. The balance of festive classics and creative twists, like cranberry hoisin wings, made the menu feel both special and deliciously comforting.If you’re after something a little different to start the holiday season, TOCA Social is well worth a visit. 

From festive food and lively activities to its cheerful atmosphere, it’s a great spot for a family outing or a festive gathering. Whether you’re passionate about football or just along for the fun, it’s an experience that’s sure to leave you with a satisfied appetite, a happy heart, and some wonderful memories.

Reviewed by Rafael Rubio, Global Director of Audience Development

F1 Arcade: A thrilling team bonding experience

Looking for a unique and fun way to bond with your colleagues? F1 Arcade in London offers an exhilarating team-building experience with a competitive edge. We visited as a team, and it was a fantastic way to connect while adding a bit of friendly rivalry.

The atmosphere is vibrant, with stunning decor featuring F1 race-themed screens throughout the space. The bar is especially impressive, offering a wide range of drinks to enjoy while you race. There’s also an extended food menu, making it easy to make a reservation for a table to relax and refuel after some high-speed action.

For true F1 fans, F1 Arcade also hosts Watch Parties, allowing you to enjoy live races in an immersive, high-energy setting with fellow enthusiasts.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Style at Wagamama Southbank

Looking for the perfect way to ring in 2025? This New Year’s Eve, Wagamama invites you to an unforgettable evening of flavour, live music, and celebration at its stunning Southbank location. With front-row views of London’s iconic fireworks display, this exclusive event promises a night to remember.

Guests will enjoy a specially curated three-course tasting menu, showcasing Wagamama's signature bold and vibrant dishes. Both plant-based and classic options will be freshly prepared, bursting with the colours and spices that have made Wagamama a favourite across the globe.

But the celebrations don't stop there. Your ticket also includes three drinks tokens to redeem for bespoke cocktails or beverages of your choice, plus a sparkling glass of prosecco to toast the arrival of the New Year as the clock strikes midnight. To make the night even more memorable, guests will receive a thoughtfully curated gift bag to take home - ensuring the magic of the evening lingers long after the celebrations end.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, live performances from some of London's finest soul and jazz artists will fill the space with warmth and energy, setting the perfect mood for a night of joy and connection.

Tickets are limited, so don't miss out—book now to secure your spot at this exclusive celebration.

Reviewed by HELLO! News

Experience the joy of Disney at Disney On Ice

Relive your childhood, or make a little one's dreams come true, with a visit to Disney On Ice, the Disney-themed ice skating show that makes everyone smile - even the grown-ups.

For 2025, Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures includes favourite Disney destinations while visiting the world from the rooftops of London, travelling to the sun-soaked Motunui, joining a safari to the Pride Lands, and playing at a larger-than-life carnival with Woody and Forky. All the Disney favourites take part, include Moana, Elsa and Rapunzel along with Mary Poppins Returns, Aladdin and Incredibles 2.

The show plays at London's O2 arena from December 26 - January 5, bringing to life Disney's beloved Mickey, Goofy and more.

 To book tickets, visit Disney On Ice.

It's a cat lovers dream at Java Whiskers Cat Cafe

If you're a cat owner or simply adore kitties, I urge you to head down to the wonderful Java Whiskers Cat Café at London's White City, where you will be surrounded by adorable feline friends as you sip tea and eat cake – what could be better?

I took my 11-year-old cat-mad daughter to the café and we loved it so much we didn't want to leave. The venue is a Swedish founded cat cafe with two locations in central London, and the concept is all about improving our mental health and helping rehome cats. Yes, that's right, the cats and kittens are up for adoption.

You can choose a session in either the cat or kitten lounge (we did both!) and relax while cats climb on your lap for strokes or grab a cat toy to entertain the furry companions at playtime. The café even runs Kitty Yoga classes where you do yoga amongst the cute cats.

As for the food menu, we ate delicious sandwiches, brownies and cupcakes with a cappuccino and hot chocolate. Every Saturday and Sunday between 3pm-5pm afternoon tea is served, too. The ideal way to spend a chilly winter's afternoon. Visit javawhiskers.co.uk to book

Reviewed by Sophie Hamilton, HELLO! Parenting Editor

Dine at Estiatorio Milos for exquisite Mediterranean cuisine

Seafood doesn’t really get much better than this.  Located in the heart of St James’s, where London’s most popular and luxury destinations call home, Estiatorio Milos is exactly where it belongs. 

Renowned for its fresh and high-quality produce, this impressive establishment puts Mediterranean cuisine front and centre, with its Greek seafood flown in daily. 

Founded by acclaimed chef Costas Spiliadis, this family-owned franchise has locations around the globe, with Kim Kardashian known to dine at its New York establishment. Having had the pleasure of experiencing its London venue, I’m not surprised this high-end restaurant group is a hot spot for A-listers. 

It’s hard not to be impressed by Milos, which opened in 2015 in the Grade II listed former British Columbia House. When I arrived outside the restaurant, I was met with two huge wooden doors that swung open to reveal the marble hall and elegant all-white interior, decorated with Grecian urns. 

After being shown to my seat by the friendly staff, I was quickly greeted by a delicious glass of wine, expertly selected by our waiter, who opted for a bottle produced in Cyprus. 

Next up was the food: a delightful three-course tasting menu that began with Greek ceviche, accompanied by feta, wild herbs and Kastoria beans, and tuna tartare, perfectly paired with micro basil, orange and Serrano chilli. Both dishes were fresh and packed with flavour. I had to stop myself from licking the plate. 

The second course was truly spectacular and consisted of the Milos Special – an impressive tower made of fried courgette and aubergine with a core of creamy tzatziki – and octopus that was chargrilled to perfection and paired with Santorini fava puree and capers. 

The highlight of the meal was the sea salt baked fish, which was easily one of the tastiest seafood dishes I’ve had. Packed with flavour and so incredibly succulent, it melted in my mouth. 

If you’re a fan of seafood, Estiatorio Milos is a must. 

Reviewed by Nicky Morris, TV and Film writer

Indulge in delicious hearty plates of pasta at Flour & Grape

Bermondsey Street has forever been one of my favourite streets in London thanks to its beautiful flower stalls, candy-coloured townhouses and charming small independent cafés. Tucked away at the very end of the meandering street is Flour & Grape, a cosy, candlelit corner restaurant serving up imaginative small plates and hearty homemade pasta. 

This no-reservation restaurant offers a walk-in policy only, and the queue often swirls around the corner during busy periods. If you're lucky enough to secure a table, Flour & Grape should be on your must-visit list this month. 

Expect a small but mighty menu of deliciously indulgent pasta dishes, from pumpkin ravioli doused in sage butter, to creamy truffle-infused taglierni and beef short-rib parpadelle. The restaurant also offers an exquisite selection of Italian wines, with recommendations for pairing if you prefer to prize your palette with expertly infused flavours. 

Prices are reasonable for central London, and compete with other restaurants on Bermondsey Street's ever-sophisticated food scene. Pasta dishes range from £9.50 (a steal in the city) to £17 for the most indulgent truffle dish. With the seal of approval from HELLO!, this restaurant is not to be missed.

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

Dine in the sky at Aqua Shard

What could be better than sipping Champagne and nibbling on divine food with a backdrop of London's skyline? Doing just that, but with the addition of a truly spectacular Christmas tree.

This festive season, Aqua Shard has made its location on level 31 of The Shard even more special, thanks to their collaboration with luxury fragrance house, Frédéric Malle.Far from a traditional tree, the restaurant has brought a new level of glamour to proceedings with a 23ft tall red and silver Christmas tree, adorned with giant chrome baubles.Lighting up the already impressive restaurant, the Aqua Shard's tree is not to be missed during your tour of London's best festive décor. 

Plus, throughout the season, Aqua Shard has added Christmas tree-inspired desserts to the menu, with part of the proceeds from their sale donated to charity Art of Wishes, which unites the art world to help children with critical illnesses. 

Reviewed by Melanie Macleod, Wellness Editor

Elevate your palette at Bun House Disco

Make party season last longer than just December with Bun House Disco, the new sister restaurant to Bun House in Chinatown which aims to transport guests back to 1980’s Hong Kong.

If you're already overwhelmed with turkey, cranberry and stuffing, then head down to Shoreditch where you can keep your tastebuds on their toes with their iconic buns (my choice was beef flank with chuhou gravy and black pepper), prawn wontons with your choice of dressings (I recommend the hot and sour) and unique sharing plates such as mala tater tots topped with beef chilli.

The unexpected star of the show was the stir-fried cheung fun (or rolled noodles) which is not only classic winter warmer but also packed with punchy flavours. The edgy cocktail menu is not for the faint-hearted, with a porn star martini swapped for a chrysanthemum martini, a spicy margarita upgraded to a mala margarita, and traditional old fashioned jazzed up with sesame.

For those cutting back on alcohol in the festive season, you can't go wrong with the milk tea paired with a warm custard bun.

Reviewed by Nichola Murphy, Deputy Lifestyle Editor

Experience the height of luxury at Clap 

There is just something about Knightsbridge at Christmas. A hop, skip and jump away from Harrods, indulgent Japanese restaurant Clap stands tall, decorated with the most festive entrance, adorned with Christmassy crackers and red blooms. 

I was escorted to the top floor where a magnificent view of London awaited me, impressively sparkling as I devoured the most gorgeous meal. I tried the restaurant's incredible festive menu - there's a few on offer so you can decide which one is to your taste.

They start at £80 per person and you get a lot of incredible food for that price.We had a huge selection - starting with edamame beans lightly dusted with salt as well as crispy salmon rice. 

The Nigiri and Sashimi sushi were impeccable, as was the Black Truffle Salmon Teriyaki and don't get me started on the dessert platter! It's the stuff of dreams. 

The menu is an ideal treat for the YuleTide season; ideal for girly brunches to special gatherings with loved ones, as well as an elite Christmas party venue. I was also obsessed with the extensive cocktail menu, which is not to be missed.

Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion & News Beauty Editor

Celebrate the season at Sucre

If you're looking for a dining experience that combines elegance, bold flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Sucre is the perfect choice. Celebrate the season with their seasonal Argentinian Winter Menu, crafted to showcase comforting, vibrant dishes that will transport you straight to Argentina. My husband and I recently visited to celebrate a personal milestone, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

The menu boasts a variety of starters and sharing plates, all designed to highlight the bold and authentic flavors of Argentina. We tried a variety of dishes, including the Empanadas, Choripán, Sea Bass Tiradito, and Tuna Tartare. While everything was delicious, the Tiradito stood out for its impeccable freshness, and the Choripán, paired with a vibrant chimichurri sauce, was an absolute crowd-pleaser.

For the main course, we indulged in a selection of expertly cooked steaks, sharing different cuts to fully appreciate the quality and flavor. Sides complemented the meal perfectly, though it’s worth noting that Sucre also offers other options, such as chicken, pork, fish, and prawns, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

But the true star of the evening? Dessert. Sucre’s sweet offerings are nothing short of divine. The Dulce de Leche Fondant was rich, gooey perfection, while the Basque Cheesecake—my personal favorite dessert—was a creamy dream come true. Both are absolute must-tries.

For reservations, visit sucrerestaurant.com

Experience an après-inspired facial at W London

Dreaming of après but stuck in the cycle of work, eat, sleep, repeat? The final weeks of work before the office wraps up for Christmas can feel like a lifetime, so why not ease the stress of the festive period with a soothing, alpine inspired facial at W London's spa with the Après-Work Spa Experience? 

Keen to get my glow back ahead of Christmas, I found this rapid 30 minute facial the perfect tonic to unwind and recharge. I started my evening at The Perception Bar which has been transformed into a stylish après-ski lounge inspired by W Verbier's alpine aesthetic. From there, I headed up to W's Away Spa for my treatment. Despite being an express treatment, there was no rushing involved, with my facialist Tamara taking extra care to give my dry winter skin the TLC it needed. The highlight of the treatment is the chilling use of ice spoons and intensley hydrating products, which almost lulled me to sleep. Post facial, the spa's steam room, sauna and shower facilities are the perfect place to decompress after a busy work day. 

Available on weekdays from 5 PM to 7 PM, this après-ski-inspired experience combines ski-inspired drinks, indulgent spa treatments, and cosy alpine vibes for the ultimate post-work treat. Priced at £99 per person, the package includes a 30-minute Insta Hydra Facial, one cocktail from the Après Lodge menu or a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, plus access to W London’s fitness and wellness facilities between 5-7pm on day of treatment.

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

Stay at the Chateau Denmark Hotel

 Chateau Denmark Hotel is a truly unique, luxury hotel that pays homage to Soho’s rich rock-and-roll heritage with a bold, unconventional style and an entranceway you can't miss! 

I was fortunate enough to spend a night in their two bedroom deluxe apartment with my husband and two children. The incredibly friendly staff couldn't have made us feel more welcome (even offering to cover up some of the more daring artwork). The spacious abode came equipped with a huge bar, cinema room and two beautiful bedrooms. 

It's located on Denmark Street which is famed for its musical history, and the hotel delivered an immersive experience that blended opulence with rebellious energy. The design is the standout feature, with rooms and suites inspired by gothic, punk, and Victorian aesthetics. Lavish four-poster beds, moody lighting, and edgy decor created a dramatic yet comfortable atmosphere. High-end amenities, including personalised service and modern technology, ensured a luxurious stay.

The location is perfect for exploring London’s vibrant cultural scene, with theatres, music venues, and eclectic dining options nearby. We enjoyed a beautiful meal at Thirteen opposite the hotel, where we were also treated to a continental breakfast the following morning. Chateau Denmark Hotel is a must-stay for those looking for an unforgettable, character-rich hotel that celebrates creativity and individuality. It's more than a place to sleep — it's an experience.

Book a room, apartment and meal for an unforgettable vacation. 

Reviewed by Hannah Hargrave, Deputy US editor

Treat yourself to a box of Lola's Cupcakes

If you're on the hunt for a last-minute festive party favour, we recommend checking out Lola's Cupcakes. The popular confectionary chain has launched a new Christmas collection that looks seriously cute and festive - and we can confirm that it's also highly delicious.

We loved the Christmas Brownie Crackers (£25 for a box of six), which contains melt in your mouth treats in Original Chocolate, Salted Caramel, Millionaire Shortbread, Red Velvet, Chocolate Heaven and Cookie Dough flavours, plus they're all gluten-free. We had a blast pulling these in the HELLO! office - they're so much more fun than your average cracker.

The Elf Collection Cupcake Box also went down a storm as we fought over the last mouthfuls. Lola's gooey sponge cake recipe has been given a Christmas makeover, topped with deliciously sweet icing with beautiful festive designs including elves, mistletoe and holly. We enjoyed the box of six (£22.20) but reckon the box of 12 mini cupcakes (£25.20) would be the perfect gift if you're attending any Xmas parties. 

Lola's Cupcakes are available for nationwide delivery.

Reviewed by HELLO! Lifestyle team

Southern Soul: A Smoky Lunchtime Treat

When we were invited to try Southern Soul at the Canteen Food Hall, we couldn’t resist the chance to sample their lunchtime experience. Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Peninsula’s Design District, Southern Soul combines the bold flavours of Southern USA BBQ with a South London twist – and it truly exceeded expectations.

The atmosphere at Canteen Food Hall was buzzing, with its striking glass structure and communal dining vibe creating a welcoming space. We were treated to an array of their signature dishes – a mouthwatering feast of burgers and fries that left a lasting impression.

The Oak Smoked Pork Belly Rib Burger was an absolute highlight, featuring tender, smoky meat perfectly complemented by crisp pickles and a soft, slightly sweet bun. The Applewood Smoked Chicken Thigh Burger delivered intense, smoky flavours, while the pulled brisket was sumptuously rich and juicy. The fries were perfectly crispy, served fresh and seasoned to perfection.

Chef Tom Goddard’s passion for low-’n’-slow cooking and artisanal bread-making shone through in every bite. Southern Soul’s welcoming and no-frills approach feels authentic and refreshingly down-to-earth.

Verdict: If you’re a fan of BBQ, Southern Soul is a must-visit. It’s a fantastic addition to London’s thriving street food scene, with flavours that linger long after the last bite.

Visit http://southernsoullondon.com for more information.

Reviewed by HELLO! Audience team

Try LEON's sleigh-worthy treats

If you're on the hunt for a Christmas pick-me-up, LEON’s festive menu is back, and it’s packed with holiday cheer. The Christmas Cracker wrap is a highlight, combining turkey, sage and onion stuffing, cranberry sauce, and spinach in a cozy tortilla - it’s like Christmas dinner on the go.

If you're looking for a more wholesome, filling meal, the Turkey Christmassaman offers a surprising twist with tender turkey in a rich, lightly spiced coconut sauce - perfect for a chilly day. On the sweet side, the Lemon & Poppyseed muffin is light and fudgy with a nostalgic citrus kick.

Don’t miss the Praline Dream lattte, a warm and fragrant drink that feels like a festive hug. LEON’s menu is ideal for a quick, flavorful, and seasonal meal that doesn’t overdo the indulgence - it's a favourite amongst the team for a lunch time festive treat. 

Reviewed by HELLO! Lifestyle

Ditch those boring lunches - hot quesadillas are here to save the day!

Let’s face it: cold sandwiches and soggy microwave leftovers have been lunch staples for far too long. But here’s some good news to heat up your workday—Tortilla is giving away free, piping-hot quesadillas to hardworking folks across the nation. 

We were lucky enough to try Tortilla’s chicken and veggie quesadillas at our office this week, and let me tell you, they were love at first bite. Even as someone who’s not obsessed with toasties or melted cheese (shock horror!), I couldn’t resist them!

If you’re drooling already (we don’t blame you), here’s the scoop: on Thursday, 12 December, Tortilla is popping up at their Greenwich location—right across from the Cutty Sark DLR station. The deal? Bring in your store-bought sandwich, and they’ll swap it for a delicious hot quesadilla. For free!

Even better, your old sandwich won’t go to waste. Tortilla will donate it to local charities, meaning you can enjoy your upgraded lunch and do a little good at the same time. Win-win, right?

So, mark your calendar, grab that sad sarnie from the fridge, and get ready to quesadilla your way to lunchtime bliss.

 Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor

Mix it up with festive matcha at Black Sheep Coffee

Matcha is having a moment, and few places in London have a menu as exciting at Black Sheep Coffee. Spicing things up (literally) for the festive season, indulge in seasonal syrups like Gingerbread Matcha or (our personal favourite) the Iced White Mint Choc Matcha, or if you're more of a coffee afficionado, get your fix with Black Sheep's wholesome gingerbread latte, AKA Christmas in a cup.

We love that Black Sheep Coffee’s matcha range is crafted in partnership with PerfectTed, a brand known for its organic, ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha from Uji. The result is a smooth, vibrant drink with natural, additive-free energy in every sip – a reflection of both brands' commitment to quality and taste.

If you're stopping by at lunch this month, we recommend the new Brie & Cranberry Toastie. Expect oozing melted cheese paired with a zingy sweety chutney, the perfect pick-me-up for a midday slump. 

Reviewed by HELLO! Lifestyle team