Chelsea Reopens as a Winter Wonderland

Chelsea’s Christmas lights have returned, with even more magical displays across the entire neighbourhood. Festive installations area-wide include a glittering walk-through forest of Silver birch and pure white magnolia twinkling with fairy lights, a 36-foot Norway Spruce adorned with shimmering golden bows, striking 5ft wreaths and majestic crowns strung across the King’s Road as a nod to its heritage – the Road was created for King Charles II, the very monarch who ‘brought back Christmas’ after a decade long ban by Oliver Cromwell.

A Winter Wonderland-themed al fresco dining experience sees over 500 additional outdoor seats across the area, with cover and heaters to protect diners from the elements. On Duke of York Square, guests can enjoy al fresco meals from Vardo, Manicomio and Polpo. The newly pedestrianised Pavilion Road will also be ‘winterised’, with outdoor dining at restaurants including Hans’ Bar & Grill; Wulf & Lamb; The Sea, The Sea and Granger & Co, along with takeaway treats from the butcher, baker, grocer and cheesemonger.

Each weekend in December will see atmospheric roaming entertainment add to the Christmas spirit, with live music and festive performers. Complimentary horse and carriage rides will depart from outside Tiffany & Co on Sloane Street and an outdoor festive food market will be hosted at Duke of York Square every Saturday. The market will be full of seasonal delicacies and gifts from artisan traders, from Ginger Q’s array of Christmas confectionery, Broma Chocolate’s warming winter drinks and great present ideas from Antique Cup, Fork & Cork; Atlas and Smith & Strand among many others. A mulled punch tricycle from legendary local Partridges will also be on hand to warm shoppers.

Stores and restaurants will be offering exclusive offers, treats and surprises throughout the festive period – including fresh new retailers to the neighbourhood: outdoor clothing brand Shackleton, ‘modern apothecary’ Anatome, print designer Hayley Menzies, organic greengrocer Ben’s Grocers and cult sports footwear store, CopIt.

For those looking to enjoy Chelsea’s shopping from the comfort of home, Cadogan continues its zero-emission e-cargo bike offering free delivery until Christmas Eve. With orders insured to a value of £10,000, every Christmas essential, from ham and turkey from the local butcher, to toys from Trotters or even a new Christmas day outfit from Sloane Street can be swiftly delivered in time for the holidays. The bike will be delivering within a three-mile radius, allowing you to shop at home and enjoy contact-free delivery.

Full information and continually updated events, offers and festive menus: www.chelseachristmas.co.uk