What to do in London this January
From literary festivals to exciting parades, there is something for everyone to enjoy this January.
30 Dec 2022
With the arrival of 2023, it is time to look to the year ahead and embrace the array of events and exhibitions filling up the calendar. From literary festivals to exhilarating parades, there is something for everyone to enjoy this January. The continued presence of some of London's favourite festive pop-ups also promises a touch of festive magic to liven up the month. So, with our selection of the best things to do, exhibitions to see, and places to eat, make your time at one of our London hotels this January even more special.
Exciting events
Chinese New Year
22nd January
Experience the eclectic parades, exuberant performances, and tapestry of colour of London’s Chinese New Year – the largest celebration outside of Asia. As the parade weaves its way through the streets of Chinatown, follow along and indulge in a selection of traditional Chinese food. The parade ends in the vibrant West End, offering the perfect chance to complete the day with a show at one of London's famous theatres.
Burns Night
25th January
Hosted at The Rubens at the Palace, capture a taste of traditional Scottish culture with the annual Burns Night celebrations – a night of haggis, ‘neeps and tatties’, and the finest Scotch whisky in homage to the Scottish poet and lyricist, Robert Burns. The sound of bagpipes reverberating throughout completes the aura of the event.
Skate around London’s glittering ice rinks
For those looking to extend the festivities of the month before, London’s ice rinks will be open long into January offering the perfect chance to savour some of that festive magic. As you twirl across the glimmering ice, soak up the atmosphere of iconic backdrops like Hampton Court Palace, Somerset House, or the newly opened Battersea Power Station.
Upcoming exhibitions
Hieroglyphs at the British Museum
Marking 200 years since the decipherment of the Egyptian hieroglyphs, this ground-breaking exhibition shines a light upon the discovery of the Rosetta Stone and the subsequent decoding of the hieroglyphs – a momentous event that offered the greatest insight into human history to date.
The exhibition will be running into the month of February, offering plenty of time to discover the secrets of this ancient world.
Making Modernism at the Royal Academy
An overt celebration of modernist art, Making Modernism is the first major UK exhibition of its kind and seeks to unveil the exceptional yet often overlooked paintings (among other mediums) of twentieth-century women working in Germany.
As you traverse the galleries, discover a series of impressive works and the influence these ‘pioneering’ women had on the art scene as a whole.
Where to eat
Il Portico
Il Portico Restaurant
Indulge in the hearty flavours of the Italian countryside at Il Portico, nestled in the charming borough of Kensington and Chelsea near both The Milestone Hotel & Residences and The Egerton House Hotel. Showcasing a delicious selection of homemade breads, pastas, and cheeses, their menu offers an eclectic array of authentic Italian cuisine – the perfect escape from the crisp chill of London’s winter days.
Scott’s Mayfair
Scott's Mayfair
A signature Oyster Bar complete with Champagne, exquisite wines, and eclectic cocktails makes for the perfect post-Christmas indulgence; and for those seeking such luxury, there is nowhere better than Scott's Mayfair. Serving some of the finest seafood in London, immerse yourself in the restaurant's chic and elegant ambience whilst enjoying dishes like their Blackened miso salmon or Yellowtail sashimi.
Cheneston's Restaurant, Kensington
Discover intimate and elegant fine dining at Cheneston's Restaurant in Kensington, nestled in the charming and characterful Milestone Hotel & Residences. Exquisite British plates such as Scottish salmon cured by H.Forman & Son or confit pork belly are carefully crafted by Executive Chef Daniel Putz to offer a dining experience like no other.
For those celebrating a special occasion, why not opt for a private dining experience, complete with fresh flowers, table decorations, bespoke menus, and a wine list personally tailored to your event?
The English Grill, Victoria
Those desiring a little flare to their dining experience this January should not miss The English Grill. A live-action kitchen serving up some of the finest British produce and an eclectic menu boasting table-side theatrics are just a few of the things on offer at this stylish and refined restaurant.
A fillet steak prepared on their Josper Grill or a Steak Diane flambéed at your table are just a couple of favourites on the menu. And for those partaking in Veganuary, there are an array of inventive plant-based dishes available, including a Plant-Based Beef Flank.
Inspiration for the rest of 2023
Allow our collection to help you fulfil your 2023 dreams with our Red List and make memories that will be forever treasured.
From romantic city breaks to African bush adventures, our unique and exceptional experiences at Red Carnation Hotels promise an array of unforgettable memories.