Giles Guide: Chinese New Year 2025 in London!

Ready to welcome the Year of the Snake with an unforgettable celebration? London is the perfect place to celebrate! As the capital gears up to host Europe's largest Chinese New Year festivities, we've worked on compiling a complete guide to help you make the most of this spectacular cultural celebration! From dazzling parades to mouth-watering feasts, let's explore how you can embrace the Lunar New Year spirit right in the heart of London.

Make St Giles London Hotel Your Festive Home

Before we delve into the excitement, why not make your celebration truly special with our exclusive Chinese New Year package? Our central location puts you mere steps away from all the action, and we're delighted to offer:

- 20% off our Best Available Rate

- A special Chinese New Year performance

- A festive welcome amenity

- Prime location near Chinatown and the festivities

- Comfortable accommodation with exceptional service

Available to book from 1st November 2024 – 31st January 2025 for stays from 1st January 2025- 9th February 2025, it's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the celebrations.

Find out more and book your festive escape here

Join the Parade Spectacular

As the centrepiece of London's Chinese New Year celebrations, the magnificent parade winds its way through the West End, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and excitement. Starting at Trafalgar Square before meandering through Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue, you'll witness Europe's largest gathering of Chinese lions and dragons! Whilst Charing Cross and Leicester Square stations offer convenient access, we recommend finding a spot slightly away from these areas for a better view of the spectacular procession.

The exact parade for the 2025 celebration has yet to be released but please be assured that the parade follows a similar route every year.

Trafalgar Square Comes Alive

Following the parade, the festivities continue at Trafalgar Square, where a day of cultural celebrations awaits:

- Mesmerising dragon and flying lion dances

- Impressive martial arts demonstrations

- Vibrant live music and dance performances

- Popular Chinese pop hits

- A breathtaking pyrotechnic display to round off the celebrations

Discover the West End's Cultural Zones

The celebration spreads its wings throughout the West End, with each area offering something unique:

- Shaftesbury Avenue transforms into a talent showcase featuring rising British-Chinese artists

- Leicester Square becomes a family haven with hands-on cultural activities

- Charing Cross Road pulses with energy through martial arts displays and traditional arts

Savour the Flavours of the New Year

No celebration is complete without a feast! Here are some of London's finest Chinese dining destinations, all within a stone's throw of St Giles London:

1. Tattu

Mere moments from St Giles on Denmark Street, Tattu offers a contemporary take on Chinese cuisine in a spectacular setting. Their Emperor's Duck Breast with plum glaze is simply unmissable, and do save room for their iconic "Frozen Cherry Blossom" pudding. Perfect for special occasions, they offer several dining experiences, including their Taste of Tattu Set Menu on weekdays and a lavish Saturday Brunch with free-flowing cocktails. Guests of St Gules London Hotel will also receive a complimentary signature cocktail upon arrival - simply ask our concierge team to arrange your booking!

2. Four Seasons

Renowned throughout London for their exceptional Cantonese cuisine, particularly their perfectly roasted duck that keeps Londoners and visitors alike returning time and again. Though they first made a name for themselves due to the amazing dishes at their Queensway branch, their Chinatown establishment maintains the same exceptional standards. Both locations promise a remarkable dining experience with dishes that will leave you planning your next visit.

3. Gold Mine

A true hidden gem offering authentic Chinese dishes that capture the genuine essence of traditional flavours. With dishes that rival Four Seasons, this is a must try if you’re looking for a memorable meal. Be sure to check out their restaurant, located on Queensway or in Chinatown.

4. Joy King Lau

A treasured Chinatown establishment serving delectable dim sum and traditional Cantonese dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

5. Dumpling Legend

True to its name, this wonderful spot is celebrated for their handcrafted dumplings, offering a taste of authentic Chinese craftsmanship in every mouthful.

Top Tips for Your Visit

- Embrace tradition by wearing red for good fortune

- Layer up warmly as February can be quite chilly in London

- Pack an umbrella or some rainwear- British weather can be rather unpredictable!

- Book your St Giles London stay in advance to secure our special rate

- Arrive early to claim the best parade viewing spots

- Consider exploring Chinatown in the days before or after the main celebration to avoid the largest crowds

There you have it, festivity seekers! With St Giles London Hotel as your base, you're perfectly positioned to experience every magical moment of Chinese New Year in London. From the rhythmic beating of drums during the parade to the aromatic streets of Chinatown, you're set for an unforgettable celebration that'll have you welcoming the Year of the Snake in true style!

Ready to be part of London's biggest cultural celebration of the year? Book with us today to secure your festive stay, and let's make this Chinese New Year one to remember!