Afternoon tea at The BerkeleyThe IcebarITINERARY: FEEL-GOOD FACTORSIndulgence is the name of the game this month. Our handy guide suggests some great ideasfor raising winter spirits, spoiling loved ones, or treating yourself. By David G. Taylor1 BAG A BARGAINIt’s amazing what a pick-me-upshopping can be, and this monthis the perfect time to get extravalue for money with January salestaking place across the city (p. 60).Department stores like Harrods,Selfridges and Liberty’s are greatplaces to hunt for bargains, whilethere are more than 250 storesto choose from at the glamorousWestfield <strong>London</strong> shopping mall inShepherd’s Bush (all p. 62).2 TAKE TIME TO PLAYBring out your inner child. HydePark’s Winter Wonderland (until6 Jan) boasts funfair rides, an icesculpture show and <strong>London</strong>’s largestoutdoor ice rink (Daily 10.00-22.00.Admission free). Or enjoy a vintagecarousel rides, roasted chestnutsand more at the Royal BotanicGardens (until 6 Jan, p. 30).Hyde Park, W2. hydeparkwinterwonderland.comË Hyde Park Corner. Map C3.3 ENJOY AROMASLuxurious perfumes, scents andcolognes are excellent for boostingyour mood. Penhaligon’s (p. 64) haswonderful fine fragrances for womenand men, such as its gents ‘Sartorial’cologne, inspired by <strong>London</strong>’s ownSavile Row. Elsewhere, Cire Trudon,founded in 1643, is the oldestcandle-maker in the world. Visit itsonly boutique outside France forscented candles. Marie Antoinetteherself was a loyal customer.36 Chiltern Street, W1. 020 7625 7952. ciretrudon.com Ë Baker Street. Map B4.4 GET PAMPEREDBook yourself a rejeuvenatingtreatment at one of <strong>London</strong>’sexcellent spas. For women, CoventGarden’s The Sanctuary offersrelaxing massages, facials andmore. Fellas, however, needn’t missout as the Nickel Spa (p. 60) isespecially for men.12 Floral Street, WC2. 08455214 567. sanctuary.comË Covent Garden. Map B6.5 HAVE A CHOCOLATE TREATChocoholics know what a moodenhancer it can be. Kids andadults will love exploring M&M’SWorld <strong>London</strong> in Leicester Square(pictured right, p. 65). Meanwhile,The Hotel Chocolat brand hasoutlets all over the capital,including The Rabot Estate– its large Borough Marketchocolate shop and café.2 Stoney Street, SE1. 020 74039852. rabotestate.comË t <strong>London</strong> Bridge. Map. C8.6 EAT CAKEAfternoon tea is the quintessentialEnglish tradition and a wonderfultreat. The style conscious will enjoyThe Berkeley hotel’s fashion-inspiredPrét-à-Portea. Its new WinterCollection offers cakes, biscuitsand macaroons resembling catwalkclassics, including a designerhandbag-shaped Victoria spongecake (pictured). For lots moreafternoon tea ideas, turn to p. 87.7 HAVE IT ON ICEDon’t fight the winter chill, embrace it,with a cocktail at the Icebar(p. 89). Cool in every sense of theword, inside everything is madeof Swedish ice. Experience -5°Ctemperatures as you enjoy theambience. Thenwarm-up in theneighbouringBelowzeroRestaurantor ReindeerLounge.ICEBAR © PAULINA HOLMGREN, FOTOGRAF PAULINA AB10| visitlondon.com|LONDON PLANNER|January 2013
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