Nothing quite signifies the arrival of Christmas in London like the unveiling of the Claridge’s Christmas tree. A grande dame like no other on the London hotel scene, Claridge’s at Christmas is pure magic. For the last couple years, Claridge’s has collaborated with a famous design house to create a Christmas tree that truly excites and evokes the spirit of Christmas.
In 2014, for the second year running, the tree has been designed by longtime guests and friends of the hotel, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana (Dolce & Gabbana, to us).
Inspired by their childhood memories and in order to celebrate children of the world, this year’s eight-meter-high tree brings a magical woodland to life, with animated deer, rabbits and squirrels gathered to shelter in the safety of the tree and the warmth of the fire.
Inside Claridge's at Christmas — Photo courtesy of Claridge's
Add a sprinkling of snow, and the lobby of Claridge’s comes to life with the magical Christmas spirit.
The tree is adorned with over 300 glass baubles blown by master artisans from Bellagio on Lake Como. Each is hand painted with international flags, representing the many festive traditions and magical experiences celebrated the night before Christmas.
At the base of the tree is a royal throne with a crown and a beautifully hand-made coat owned by a Norman king, carefully draped to symbolize the Norman’s conquest of southern Italy in 1061, adding a touch of mysticism and power.
The Claridge’s Christmas tree is a festive landmark, with Londoners and tourists alike flocking to see the creation.
“We are delighted to invite Domenico and Stefano to spread their special magic in our lobby once again. Our guests and staff loved their tree so much last year, and they have created something equally memorable and enchanting this time," says Thomas Kochs, Claridge’s general manager. "Both Claridge’s and Dolce & Gabbana are synonymous with timeless glamour, innovative spirit and traditional family values that are so important during Christmas."
We couldn’t agree more.
Whether for afternoon tea in The Foyer, for a glass of champagne in the stunning Fumoir bar or for the new fabulous on-site restaurant Fera at Claridge’s, you might want to visit this holiday season to see the Claridge’s Christmas tree in all its glory.
Claridge's is only a few minutes away from the high-end boutiques on Bond Street, making it a perfect pit stop after a day of Christmas shopping. Or for something more unique, visit nearby Mount Street, which is beautifully decorated at Christmas time and will have plenty of quaint shops for you to visit.
