With the familiar cry of 'It's Christmas!' ringing in the air, what better way to embrace the season than with a festive staycation in the heart of London? We chose the elegant Marylebone Village for a weekend of high-end retail therapy, exquisite dining, and immersive holiday atmosphere, proving it's a hidden gem far beyond its Monopoly board fame.
A Tranquil Urban Base: The Welbeck Hotel
Our home for the night was The Welbeck Hotel on Welbeck Street, an Edwardian building easy to spot thanks to its festive entrance archway. Checking into a Classic Room on the fifth floor, we were greeted with charming views over Victorian rooftops. The room featured a queen-size bed, Illy coffee machine, and a mini-fridge with complimentary refreshments.
The en-suite bathroom boasted a welcome heated floor and a powerful rainforest shower. With 164 rooms and suites, the hotel blends contemporary luxury with historic charm, offering high-speed Wi-Fi, Templespa toiletries, and even in-room spa services. Its prime location provides unrivalled access to Marylebone's delights and key tube connections across the capital.
Culinary Highlights: From Italy to Fine French
Our gastronomic journey began with lunch at Caldesi on Marylebone Lane. We were transported to Italy via a shared antipasto platter and superb handmade pasta dishes, including prawn linguine and seabass ravioli, paired with regional wine.
The undisputed dining highlight was an evening at the award-winning French restaurant Orrery. We embarked on a seven-course tasting menu, with expertly paired wines from sommelier Julio Sierra. Standout dishes included a chicken and duck parfait, seafood raviolo in lobster bisque, and a beef medallion with pomme puree. It was a fine dining experience that ranks among London's best.
For a final brunch, we visited family-run Delamina, where eastern Mediterranean flavours shone. We enjoyed small plates like feta with honey and a sublime sweet roasted almond spread, followed by inventive mains like the 'Benedict Balagan' and a beef shawarma with egg.
Festive Shopping & Seasonal Spirit
Marylebone High Street transformed into a winter wonderland after dark, with twinkling lights and festive tunes. The area's unique charm lies in its independent shops and serene, Georgian-style streets.
Daytime exploration revealed gems like Daunt Books, the fashion labels Sezane and Flabelus, and the gourmet haven of Moxon Street. Here, La Fromagerie and Rococo Chocolates proved irresistible. For exceptional window displays, VV Rouleaux on Marylebone Lane is a must-see.
We also soaked up the festive atmosphere at The Cavendish Pub, enjoying seasonal cocktails under heaters and blankets, a perfect pre-dinner ritual.
As we departed with full stomachs and bags of shopping, the Christmas spirit was undeniable. Marylebone Village offers a sophisticated, tranquil yet vibrant escape, proving itself as the ideal destination for a memorable festive staycation in the capital.
TRAVEL FACTS: Standard rooms at The Welbeck Hotel start from £250 per night, with suites from £400. The visit took place in early December 2025.
