Here's where to find food, fashion and fun in London this Christmas
You don't have to be a Christmas-begins-on-1-November, matching family pajama lover to enjoy the magical allure of a good seasonal light show, and the one that lights up Regent Street and St James's every year has long been a highlight for both Londoners and visitors.
The yearly exhibition, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, is appropriately titled The Spirit of Christmas and incorporates installations around the West End made up of over 300,000 LED lights, converting the city into a dazzling holiday paradise. You'll also be glad to know that the lights run on a timer to save electricity.
The UK flagship of the California-born athleisure company, Alo Yoga, has recently opened on Regent Street, and Dover Street Market is a must-visit for anybody looking for a fashionista.
There are plenty of designer names in the region, including Coach and Kate Spade, as well as famous labels like Cos, & Other Stories, and Free People.
No trip to the West End is complete without visiting one of the area's numerous excellent restaurants or pubs.
Fallow in St James's Market serves sustainably sourced cuisine on an inventive menu, while Wiltons down the road offers fine seafood meals in an ornate setting. Aqua Nueva on Argyll Street serves great Spanish food, while Cakes and Bubbles by Albert Adria, housed within Hotel Café Royal, offers delectable sweets.
If you want something more low-key, Hagen, a Copenhagen-inspired espresso bar, is an excellent location to unwind after a day of shopping.