Your Guide To Marylebone’s Most Magical Festive Experiences, All In One Place
This festive season, you’ll be spoiled for choice with beautifully lit-up neighbourhoods to visit in London. One of our favourites to visit this time of the year is Portman Marylebone, a charming part of London, framed by stunning Georgian architecture.
In Partnership With Portman Marylebone
Renowned for its celebrated independent shops, restaurants, and galleries, there’s plenty to eat, see, shop and do, and we love the mix of hidden streets, boutique stores, and inviting cafés. If you’re looking for a festive spot to explore this season, here are the best places to visit in Portman Marylebone.
Where to eat
The Hart
The Hart offers a classic British pub experience and is quickly becoming one of London’s most talked-about food-first pubs. This new opening is the latest venture from the team behind The Pelican and The Hero, so you know you’re in good hands when it comes to the food and drink.
where: 56 Blandford Street, W1U 7JA
website: www.thehartw1.com
It’s all wood panelling and golden glow, like a pub you dream up on a wintry walk home. The downstairs is lively, even on a Monday, filled with the type of crowd that prides itself on knowing the coolest spots in town.
Natasha, Digital Editor
Maset
Located on Chiltern Street, newly opened Maset is a restaurant inspired by French Mediterranean flavours. The third opening from the team behind Lurra and Donostia, it’s perfect for day-to-night dining. Dishes include the bouillabaisse croquettas, pâtes au pistou, monkfish (cooked on the bone, and served sliced) and camargue rice (nutty whole rice from the salt flats south of Arles). Plus, don’t forget to try the preserved lemon martini.
where: 40 Chiltern Street, W1U 7QL
website: www.maset.london
Fire & Wine by Boxcar
Fire & Wine by Boxcar is a bold, Mediterranean-influenced wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Marylebone led by Chef Zisis. The focus here is the open fire grill, with all dishes designed for sharing. The bar showcases low-intervention, biodynamic and organic wines, complemented by a selection of refined cocktails. Dine al fresco, at the counter, or in the main restaurant, or you can book the private dining room downstairs for intimate celebrations.
Where: 23 New Quebec Street, W1H 7SD
website: www.boxcar.co.uk/fire-wine
Jikoni
Ideal if you’re looking for warm, comforting curries to dig into this season, Jikoni is a cosy kitchen-style diner by cook Ravinder Bhogal that draws on mixed heritage, flavours and culinary traditions from Britain, Africa and the East. Highlights of the menu include clove-smoked venison samosas with beetroot chutney, Gressingham duck leg rendang and dal makhani and Montgomery’s cheddar croquetas.
Where: 19 – 21 Blandford Street, W1U 3DH
website: www.jikonilondon.com
Jikoni is a cosy kitchen-style diner by cook Ravinder Bhogal that draws on mixed heritage, flavours and culinary traditions from Britain, Africa and the East.
Cafe Murano
Serving fresh seasonal flavours in a relaxed and welcoming space, head to Cafe Murano for timeless Italian cuisine. The festive menu includes dishes like spiced Delica pumpkin, buffalo mozzarella and radicchio, venison ragu, roasted stone bass and more.
Plus, you can also order festive hampers full of goodies that any foodie will love – from olive oil and spiced nuts to wine and a collection of sweet treats, they make lovely gift boxes.
Where: 52-55 Dorset Street, W1U 7NQ
Website: www.cafemurano.co.uk
Where to drink
Clarette
Clarette is a chic wine bar in Marylebone, where you can settle in and enjoy a selection of tapas-style dishes. It’s owned and founded by Alexandra Petit-Mentzelopoulos of the Château Margaux family, a wine-growing estate in the Médoc region of France, so be sure to try some of their iconic wines. For food, enjoy starters like the six burgundy snails with parsley and garlic butter, or go for the Barbary duck breast with caramelised chicory for mains.
where: 44 Blandford Street, W1U 7HS
website: www.clarettelondon.com
The Grazing Goat
This public house is a refined traditional British pub in a relaxed, country house style setting. The Grazing Goat is a fabulous day-to-night spot, open from breakfast through to dinner. Located near Hyde Park, you can visit for breakfast meetings, lunches with friends and parties. Plus, with eight bedrooms, there’s a place to stay too. For food, you can’t go wrong with the Angus steaks and the dishes hot off the grill.
where: 6 New Quebec Street
website: www.cubitthouse.co.uk
This wonderful public house is a refined traditional British pub in a relaxed, country house style setting.
The Parlour, Zetter Marylebone
Nestled within The Zetter Marylebone, The Parlour is an intimate bar and lounge serving inventive cocktails and refined small plates from award-winning mixologists. From morning coffee to evening nightcaps, it is the perfect spot to unwind at any hour. With bold interiors, aromatic infusions, and live jazz every Wednesday and Thursday, it’s a lovely spot to visit this festive season.
where: 28-30 Seymour Street, W1H 7JB
website: www.thezetter.com/marylebone
The Portman Pub
On the corner of Seymour Place and Upper Berkeley Street, The Portman Pub is a family-owned spot known for its local and continental ales, Italian and French wines, and classic pub fare. With a rustic interior, wooden tables, and cosy booths, you can look forward to seasonal British produce with carefully sourced ingredients. The Sunday menu has a very tempting butternut squash Wellington for veggies, or a Sirloin of Shropshire beef for the meat-eaters.
where: 51 Upper Berkley Street, W1H 7QW
website: www.theportmanw1.com
Where to shop
Tracksmith
If you’re looking for a gift for someone passionate about running, this is where to go. Tracksmith is an independent running brand creating thoughtfully designed, authentic products for training, racing, and recovery, and it’s every runner’s paradise. From shoes specialised for distance running to t-shirts and running tights engineered for performance, you’ll be spoiled for choice here.
where: 25 Chiltern Street, W1U 7PW
website: www.tracksmith.com
If you’re looking for a gift for someone passionate about running, this is where to go.
Mouki Mou
Sourced from around the world, Mouki Mou boasts a beautiful collection of objects from clothing and jewellery to homeware. There are some gorgeous rings (from pavé diamond in 18k yellow gold to a quartz piece in rose gold), scarves to warm up for the winter (we love the embroidered Pashmina shawls), and chic knitwear to elevate your office wear this season.
where: 29 Chiltern Street, W1U 7PL
website: www.moukimou.com
TotallySwedish
For a slice of Sweden in the UK, head to TotallySwedish. The store stocks more than 1,000 different Swedish products, from food and drink to gifts. If you’re looking for stocking fillers, you’re bound to find something fun here. From ginger biscuits and lucia buns to Christmas ham and even cosy festive socks – the store is a treat to explore this season.
Where: 32 Crawford Street, W1H 1LS
website: www.totallyswedish.com
From deli foods and Swedish bakery treats to Scandi-inspired tablescaping, TotallySwedish has everything you need to elevate your hosting this Christmas.
Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
Oliver Spencer
Oliver Spencer is known for its wearable and responsibly produced menswear. You get the best of both worlds here – both premium, quality tailoring and relaxed, modern style. At the Chiltern Street store, you can find a comprehensive menswear range that is built to last – ideal if you’re Christmas shopping for the men in your life.
where: 39 Chiltern Street, W1U 7PP
website: www.oliverspencer.co.uk
TWC
TWC (The Workers Club) is another great spot to shop for menswear. The store’s style is unique and timeless and makes for very special gifting this time of year. Whether you’re looking for a cool shell jacket, a gilet or casual denim, TWC always keeps it refined and classic.
where: 58 Chiltern Street, Marylebone, W1U 7QZ, London
website: www.theworkersclub.co.uk
Perfumer H
Renowned British perfume maker Lyn Harris creates beautiful fragrances that are inspired by her own personal style. Walking in almost feels like a museum of perfume, with scents that are carefully crafted with a story behind each one. Inspired by the outdoors and nature, you can shop for perfumes and candles, as well as oils, jams and teas from the pantry section.
Walking in almost feels like a museum of perfume, with scents that are carefully crafted with a story behind each one.
where: 19 Chiltern Street, W1U 7PQ
website: www.perfumerh.com
Jovonna London
Jovanna London is an independent, London-based label which offers a stunning transitional wardrobe. Classic silhouettes meet modern tailoring in beautifully made pieces all inspired by London’s unique fashion scene. These are pieces made to invest in, and Creative Director Jojo fuses a modern yet classic approach to the style and design of each element.
where: 19 George Street, W1U 3QN
website: www.jovonnalondon.com
What to see & do
Moco Museum
Moco Museum is one of London’s icons of the art scene, featuring a wide range of modern, contemporary and digital art from artists like Warhol, KAWS, Haring and Hirst. You can find truly unique pieces of over 100 modern, contemporary, digital and immersive works of art – just be prepared to want to spend hours here. For first-timers in London, this one’s a must-visit.
where: 1-4 Marble Arch, W1H 7EJ
website: www.london.mocomuseum.com
FRAMELESS
This is one of London’s coolest immersive experiences with over 30,00 square feet of immersive art, taking you on a multi-sensory journey. There are four galleries, showcasing some of the world’s greatest works of art and iconic masterpieces from artists like Monet, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Plus, you can check out FRAMELESS Lates, an after-dark culture fix taking place every Friday and Saturday night – ideal for date night this winter.
where: 6 Marble Arch Place, W1H 7AP
website: www.frameless.com
Frameless was beyond anything I expected. Each room pulls you in so much that you could easily spend hours exploring. It’s an experience that truly goes above and beyond.
Beth, Social Media Assistant
The Wallace Collection
The Wallace Collection is a national museum which contains stunning paintings, sculptures, furniture, arms and armour, as well as porcelain. Built over the 18th and 19th centuries, it houses some of the finest and most celebrated collections in the world. Especially for the winter, there are plenty of festive specials here – marvel at Peter Paul Rubens’s Adoration of the Magi or admire Isack van Ostade’s beautiful winter view.
where: Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN
website: www.wallacecollection.orG
Bleur Studios & Gallery
Bleur Studios & Gallery is an independent visual art label dedicated to championing emerging voices. Pop in and explore thought-provoking campaigns on display while you sip on coffee from their coffee bar. They also offer a co-creating space with affordable desks that can be booked for a week or a month.
Where: 62-64 Baker Street, W1U 7DF
website: www.bleurstudios.com
Where to stay
Durrant’s Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, Durrant’s is a family-owned hotel, and you can look forward to a cosy, stylish stay where you can relax and feel at home. Especially for the festive season, there are special Christmas menus you can enjoy, or for the ultimate British experience, try a lovely afternoon tea during your stay. Plus, don’t miss the Christmas cocktail menu that can take you from mulled wine to a gingerbread martini.
Where: 26-32 George Street, W1H 5BJ
website: www.durrantshotel.co.uk
Especially for the festive season, there are special Christmas menus you can enjoy, or for the ultimate British experience, try a lovely afternoon tea during your stay.
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
Tucked away in Marylebone, conveniently close to the bustling streets of Mayfair and Soho, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square is best known for its incredible cuisine. At the helm of its restaurant is Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who has created a menu inspired by Japanese and South American flavours, and signature dishes like the black cod miso are the kind you’re not likely to forget. This time of year, you can sip on Christmas cocktails at the Nobu bar or enjoy the seasonal menu at the restaurant.
Where: 22 Portman Square, W1H 7BG
Website: www.nobuhotels.com
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill
Located in Portman Square, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has plenty of cosy spaces to enjoy this chilly winter. From their iconic terrace to the Mediterranean grill, The Montagu Kitchen, you’ll find lovely spots to eat and drink in the hotel. And you don’t have to travel too much to enjoy the best of London, with Hyde Park just a few minutes away for winter walks, and the bustling shops of Oxford Street close enough that you don’t have to carry your shopping bags very far.
Where: 30 Portman Square, W1H 7BH
website: www.hyatt.com
The Prince Akatoki London
A hotel that celebrates Japanese hospitality at every touchpoint, The Prince Akatoki London features beautifully designed rooms with a minimalist feel that make you feel warm and relaxed. If you love Japanese food, you don’t have to leave the hotel to find some of the best dishes in London – try the omakase experience, sign up for a sushi class or try the Japanese-inspired afternoon tea.
Where: 50 Great Cumberland Place, W1 7FD
website: www.theprinceakatokilondon.com
If you love Japanese food, you don’t have to leave the hotel to find some of the best dishes in London.
Montcalm Mayfair
At Montcalm Mayfair, a Grade II-listed building on the cusp of Park Lane, you can look forward to luxurious, spacious rooms and excellent cuisine. Don’t miss a visit to the hotel’s signature restaurant, Lilli by Akira Back, helmed by world-renowned, Michelin-starred chef Akira Back.
where: 2 Wallenberg Place, W1H 7TN
website: WWW.montcalmcollection.com
