Luxury homes to rent in London for a perfect Christmas staycation
If you’re dreaming of a change of scene this Christmas, and one in which all your festive wants and wishes have been taken care of, onefinestay has the answer. Explore a curation of beautiful homes-away-from-home, replete
ou’ve been staring at the same four walls all year. Even with the re-emergence of restaurants, you’ve still probably cooked and cleared away the evidence of hundreds more meals than you might usually have done. And, though you might claim to enjoy both your home decor and cooking, the truth is their appeal is wearing thin. Whether you’re reuniting with friends and family or simply seeking a festive change of scene, why not treat yourself to a luxurious staycation in one of London’s finest homes? These are the London rental homes we’d love to wake up in this Christmas…
35 Hyde Park Gate, Kensington
Situated in the heart of Kensington, this gorgeous three-bedroom duplex is the perfect base for families looking to make the most of London’s Christmas lights or groups of friends wishing to sample the best fine dining, bars and culture the capital has to offer. Sleeping up to six in two King and one double room, highlights of this chic apartment include a vast open-plan living/dining area, perfect for hosting lavish meals and sophisticated get-togethers, as well as an elegant master suite with a soothing bath tub in which to unwind.
Offered by luxury aparthotel rental brand Buckingham & Lloyds, this home is one of ten offered by the brand at 35 Hyde Park Gate. It also comes with all the services and amenities you would expect from a boutique hotel. You’ll find Molton Brown toiletries in all bathrooms, while daily housekeeping, a nanny service and a 24/7 personal concierge are on-hand to take care of your every need. There’s also an onsite gym and complimentary WiFi if you’re not ready to really lean into the indulgent downtime of the festive period.
From £650 per night, buckinghamandlloyds.com
Choreography, Knightsbridge
With five bedrooms and five bathrooms in a location a mere stone’s throw from Harrods, this incredibly chic Knightsbridge apartment offers cosy mid-century modern-meets-chalet vibes courtesy of the designer responsible for Annabel’s famed interiors. Offered for rent by Plum Guide, which prides itself on listing only the most lavish, stylish homes around, among its stellar feature are two living rooms (ideal if you’re staying with a large group) and a gorgeous rooftop terrace with incredible views. We can think of few better places to host a New Year’s Eve party.
From £2,999 per night, minimum five-night stay, plumguide.com
St Luke’s Street V, Chelsea
Equidistant from Sloane Square and South Kensington, we suggest going for an evening wander to enjoy the Christmas lights in the vicinity of St Luke’s Street before retreating for a flute of champagne and supper at your temporary home. For the most part, the house is subtly stylish but, in the open-plan living area, vibrant artworks – ranging from a city-themed canvas to rainbow-painted ornamental plates – make quite a statement. The four of you will have plenty of space to unwrap all the presents you’ve snapped up on the King’s Road, Sloane Street and Fulham Road.
YFrom £443 per night, onefinestay.com
Hillgate Place, Notting Hill
This charming townhouse is all enveloping in its cosy homeliness, with a working fireplace, floral curtains and wooden furnishings. At Christmas, more than ever, the kitchen and dining room are the beating heart of any home, and this open-plan one is ‘sprucely, spaciously modern’. Order a pre-decorated Christmas tree – watch the kids’ faces light up when you walk in – or delight them even further with a virtual visit from Father Christmas, both of which can be organised by onefinestay. Children over the age of 6 are welcome and the rooms are perfectly sized for festive sleepovers!
From £530 per night, onefinestay.com
Kinnerton Street, Belgravia
What better than a walk around the Serpentine on Christmas Day? Kinnerton Street is just minutes away from Hyde Park so you can easily pop out for a walk or some shopping (Harrods, here we come) to work up an appetite for the festive feast awaiting you back in your London bolthole. This Kinnerton Street house is spread over four floors, replete with caramel and cream, wood panels and cuddly textiles, so the six of you will have plenty of space. The sitting room has a working fireplace – such a bonus at Christmas – and the pretty, light-filled conservatory, in which you could open presents or enjoy (many) a cup of coffee or glass of wine, has a charming red and white tiled floor.
From £931 per night, onefinestay.com
Cockspur Street, Covent Garden
This remarkable fifth floor home, just two minutes’ walk from Trafalgar Square, has an intriguing backstory. Once you know it was a members’ club within a Norwegian embassy, the sizeable beams, stone fireplace and oak panelled walls make even more sense, given a contemporary touch thanks to modern upholstery and nature-inspired paintings. Yes there’s a strong sense of history – many a fascinating discussion must have happened here – but elements such as walk-in showers and the comfiest of beds add a 2020 touch of luxury. It’s also in the perfect location to explore this corner of London at its most peaceful.
