Christmas in London is a treat, imagine sparkling streets, festive markets with a mug of mulled wine and ice rinks featuring towering trees, London really does have it all. Staying central is the easiest way to soak up the vibes, but it can come with a hefty price tag. Hotels can fill up fast at this time of year, and rates can be higher. 

What if we told you there’s a way to enjoy it all without the stress? Stay in Bloomsbury, a quiet, historic corner of central London, with garden squares, independent coffee spots to warm up in, and all the festive action just a short walk or Tube ride away. At Imperial London Hotels, we’ve been welcoming guests for Christmas over decades, offering rooms and spaces that suit families, couples, city-breakers, or anyone just looking to celebrate the season.

Quick picks: Families | Couples | Solo | Value | Boutique

Christmas in London looks a little different for everyone. Big family trips, couples weekends, or solo travels. Whatever your plan, Bloomsbury is a neighbourhood that offers it all and this guide will help to choose the Imperial London hotel that’s right for you.

Family rooms, spacious twin and triple rooms with extra beds and cots on request - make Royal National an easy choice for families or groups visiting London over Christmas. Breakfast starts early at 6.30am for little ones who are too excited to sleep. Alternatively, Blooms Coffee and Pizza in the Royal National Hotel courtyard serve hot drinks and pastries to fuel your day.

Nearby festive highlights: Trafalgar Square Christmas tree | Covent Garden market | West End theatres.

Check out family rooms and extra bed options

President Hotel is a quiet, friendly Bloomsbury Hotel that works well for families with older kids. The rooms are cosy and practical, just right for putting your feet up after a day at the Christmas markets, skating, or catching a show. 

Book festive nights.

City Sleeper Hotel is a sleek, modern base in Bloomsbury, ideal for couples and smaller families. Choose from a range of rooms like interconnecting rooms to stay close to the little ones, and enjoy blackout blinds, smart TVs, and all the small comforts that make winding down simple after a day of Christmas fun.

Nearby festive highlights: Soho, Leicester Square, Covent Garden, West End theatres.

Book your Christmas city break

Morton Hotel is a characterful Bloomsbury stay, perfect for couples or small groups who love a stylish, intimate space close to London’s festive action. Each room has its own personality, blending thoughtful furnishings with practical touches. For longer stays over the festive period or extra space, Morton Hotel also offers one and two-bedroom apartments.

Nearby festive highlights: Covent Garden market, Leicester Square Christmas displays, Oxford Street and Regent Street lights, and the British Museum just a short stroll away.

Explore boutique rooms at Morton Hotel 

Ideal for solo travellers, Bedford Hotel is for anyone looking for a nature inspired hotel in the heart of the city.  Relaxed, fuss-free stay with rooms with garden views close to museums and tube links for Christmas light loops and West End shows. Solo travellers will appreciate a quiet night after a busy day of festive sightseeing.

Nearby festive highlights: Skate at Somerset House, Covent Garden market, Oxford Street lights, Leicester Square Christmas displays, and easy Tube access to the West End theatres.

CTA: Check single occupancy rates

Tavistock Hotel is a cosy, Art Deco-inspired hotel in Bloomsbury for travellers who want a friendly base with a touch of classic London literary charm. The rooms are simple yet welcoming, giving you a calm space to recharge. The quad rooms here are spacious and sleep 4 people comfortably. 

Even though London quiets down on Christmas Day, Bloomsbury still gives you plenty to do within walking distance, from peaceful garden squares to festive streets.

Tuck into a hearty festive roast, with all the trimmings from golden roast potatoes and rich gravy to seasonal vegetables and succulent meat. The cosy, characterful pub is dressed for the season, with twinkling lights, cheerful décor, and the buzz of friends and families celebrating together. Add a festive pint or glass of red wine  from the bar, and you’ve got a proper London Christmas experience in the heart of Bloomsbury.

When: Every Sunday & Christmas Day only

Reserve your Christmas Roast at The London Pub

Many offer pre-booked set menus. For a festive feast or drinks near Bloomsbury, Cinnamon Bazaar in Covent Garden serves vibrant, sharing-style plates with classic Christmas flavours and playful global twists, just steps from the market and twinkling lights. If you’re after something more upscale, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill in Mayfair offers refined British Christmas dishes in elegant surroundings with top-notch service, ideal for a special celebration. And for festive drinks, 100 Wardour Street in Soho is a spot with creative cocktails and a warm, lively atmosphere, great for a pre- or post-dinner tipple.

Start at Oxford Street and Regent Street for iconic lights, stroll down to Carnaby Street for quirky window displays (check out the decorations in Liberty’s as well), then wander to the Trafalgar Square tree and finish at Covent Garden.

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Check availability for your Christmas stay

Bloomsbury -based ILH hotels put you a short walk from Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Soho markets.

No. In London, public transport does not operate on 25th of December. All TfL services are paused for the day, including the Tube, buses, London Overground, DLR, Elizabeth line and London Trams. National Rail services also do not run on Christmas Day.

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