If you are in London in Christmas and want to fill your days with some cute activity, this post is right for you.
Amazingly, all 4 of these arcades are located in Piccadilly/Mayfair. They are a walking distance from each other as well! So, grab your coat, wrap a scarf around your neck, bring a friend along, and let’s explore!
Burlington Arcade: A Touch of Elegance and History
A few steps away from the Royal Arcade, Burlington Arcade is one of the best-known London shopping arcades at Christmas and beyond. True love took on a new meaning when Lord George Cavendish, Earl of Burlington, commissioned Samuel Ware to build Burlington Arcade as a safe place for his wife and other genteel folk to shop – though it was also alleged that the Earl wanted to oust his neighbours who kept throwing discarded oyster shells (London’s most popular ‘fast food’) into his garden.
Burlington Arcade opened in 1819 ‘for the sale of jewellery and fancy articles of fashionable demand, for the gratification of the public.’ It had 51 independent boutiques across 72 units, selling luxuries like hats, gloves and jewellery – it was notably the place to go for a bonnet. At 196 yards long, the beautiful covered shopping arcade was – and remains – one of the longest in Britain.
Princes Arcade: A Hidden Gem
Directly across the street from Piccadilly Arcade, you’ll discover Princes Arcade, perhaps the most tucked-away of them all. Right beside it, I noticed a charming pink building that immediately caught my eye. Moreover, only about two blocks away stands the ever-stunning Fortnum & Mason store, which I’ve included as a delightful bonus at the end of this post.
Piccadilly Arcade: Beauty Above and Beyond
Continuing just down the road, still on the same side as Princes Arcade and almost directly opposite Burlington Arcade, you’ll find Piccadilly Arcade. Notably, its ceilings are absolutely stunning, making this arcade another must-see in London in Christmas
This complex is stunning outside and inside. The ladies inside are so warm as well. It’s a must visit as its right next to Princes Arcade.
Royal Arcade: The Architectural Crown Jewel
I’d say the Royal Arcade stands out as the most beautiful among them all. Coincidentally, during my visit, I met another London architecture enthusiast; we ended up taking numerous photos of each other—she literally took around 100 of me! Entering from Old Bond Street, the arcade gracefully leads into the street housing the gorgeous Brown’s Hotel. It’s truly a sight to behold.
Quadrant Arcade: Worth a Quick Stop?
Admittedly, I didn’t visit Quadrant Arcade this time because, after some research, I found the photos not appealing enough for my readers. Nevertheless, if you’ve got a bit of extra time, it’s still worth checking out this chic retail complex offering upscale shopping and dining experiences within a historical structure.
Fortnum & Mason – Festive Elegance Personified
This complex is stunning outside and inside. The ladies inside are so warm as well. It’s a must-visit as it’s right next to Princes Arcade.
I strongly recommend you visit Fortnum & Mason at night or in the late evening to witness its majestic exterior illuminated in all its glory. Undoubtedly, you’ll have plenty of company. To capture its essence, angle your phone slightly towards yourself—this will beautifully frame the building, bustling roads, and perhaps even a classic London bus behind you!
I am sure you’ve added a visit to London to your bucket list for Christmas. Explore a perfect travel guide to London in Christmas.
Thanks for your time, let’s catch up on 10 Essential Event Planning Skills.
