Five spots in London to find your festive spirit

There is nothing like the warm, heady scent of Fabrique’s cinnamon buns to bolster the festive spirit. The Scandinavian bakery has five London locations, but all of its breads and pastries are baked in Hoxton, in a lovingly converted railway arch. Take a well-deserved “fika” break and savour them warm from the oven, while picking up tricks of the trade from watching the bakers at work.

Every winter, Jimmy Garcia sets up see-through igloos (designed for six to 10 people) along the river’s South Bank. Known for his spectacular pop-ups, the plucky young chef has recreated the luxe, cosy vibes of Courchevel. Tuck into a cheese fondue or split a prime rib of beef. Book ahead if you can; if you miss out, the next-door chalet makes a good fall-back plan. 

In summer, its façade all but disappears beneath a curtain of flowers; in winter, it’s covered in twinkling Christmas trees. Winston Churchill’s grandparents were regulars at this Notting Hill pub, a local institution since 1750. Inside, beneath a ceiling strung with hanging lanterns and pitchers, people gather around pints of real ale and hearty Thai dishes. A quirky pairing, in true British style.