There’s nothing like a Christmas carolling session or a classical festive concert to get you in the festive spirit. All of the major concert venues, churches and historic houses will be holding special recitals to celebrate Christmas in London.
Royal Albert Hall – Enjoy a suitably festive classical music performance from both the Choir Of King’s College and the renowned Philharmonia Chorus at the Royal Albert Hall, ably assisted by the world-class Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This is possibly the most famous music venue in Europe if not the world and the annual summer Proms has been held here each year since 1941 under the exquisite Italianate domed roof. Held in London SW7 2AP on 17 December.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church – Don’t miss the quintessentially Christmas festival at this service entitled ‘Blessing of the Crib’ in London’s Trafalgar Square. The highlight of this neoclassical gem is the torchlit procession and the blessing bestowed upon the crib. Held in London WC2N 4JJ on 8 December.
Royal Air Force Museum – Take part in the RAF’s Christmas Concert where each December afternoon is turned over to festival carolling within a historical setting. Established in 1972 the museum contains a wealth of information on the history of aviation both in Britain and beyond. Held in NW9 5LL until 15 December.
St. Luke’s Church – Chelsea is the setting for this Christmas Carol Concert which is held in aid of charity. Supporting the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals this is a particularly magical concert as its set against the gothic revival backdrop of St Luke’s church, in fact this example just off the Kings Road is the earliest example in London, dating back to 1819. Held in SW3 6NH on 19 December.
St Paul’s Cathedral – Perhaps the ultimate in Christmassy locations, the mighty St Paul’s Cathedral is the setting for this special Christmas Carol Service. Under an exquisitely crafted roof which peaks at 364 feet (111 meters), this magnificent building dates back to 1675. Sung by the Cathedral choir, rumour has it that a light dusting of snow may even grace the historic rooftops. Held in EC4M 8AD on Christmas Eve.
Lauderdale House – Experience the superb Philharmonic Chamber Choir at their annual Christmas Concert at London’s Lauderdale House which is located within the city’s Waterlow Park. The concert service features an exciting Ceremony of Carols by legendary Benjamin Britten within a historical setting. Built in 1582 this is one of the finest country houses and was built around a timber frame. The perfect way to celebrate Christmas in London. Held in N6 5HG on 8 December.
Keats House – Get into the festive spirit at the Keats House where the romantic poet himself lived in Hampstead. The Regency architecture building now serves as the Keats Museum honouring the English poet John Keats. The Deck The Halls festival is a seasonal afternoon of music, festive cheer and of course, poetry. Don’t miss the fascinating exhibits which relate to Keats’ tenancy in Camden between 1818 and 1820. Held in NW3 2RR on 7 December.
Image Credit: Photo by DAVID ILIFF. License: CC-BY-SA 3.0
