When Christmas arrives in Richmond, the town transforms into one of London’s most charming places to shop, stroll, and soak up the season. Fairy lights sparkle above the streets, the scent of festive food drifts from cosy restaurants, and every corner feels ready for holiday magic. If you’re planning your Christmas shopping trip this year, Richmond is where you’ll want to be - and here’s exactly how to make a full day of it.
Start with Richmond’s Christmas Light Switch On – Thursday 27 November
On Thursday 27 November from 4-6pm, experience the magic of Richmond at the Christmas Light Switch On. Enjoy live entertainment, festive cheer, and celebrate the town centre lighting up for Christmas shopping, eating, and drinking.
From 4pm, George Street will be open to the public for the start of the Be Festive celebrations, with The Green and Pink Witches, Candy Cane Stilt Walkers and giant Nutcracker characters mingling with the crowds - creating the perfect opportunity for families to capture memorable festive photos.
From 5pm, the Riverside Radio stage will host a variety of live performances from Be Richmond’s talented festive entertainers, including the Richmond Music Trust Choir, songs from the smash-hit musical Wicked and a special number from our guest star, Basil Brush.
The magical moment will take place at 5:45pm when the Mayor of Richmond takes to the stage for the official light switch on, illuminating the town centre in dazzling festive lights at 6pm.
Don’t forget! From 1 December, you can also enter our 12 Days of Christmas competition, with fantastic prizes from Be Richmond retailers, restaurants, hotels, theatres and other member businesses.
Start with a Frosty Riverside Walk
Before you hit the shops, ease into the day with a crisp winter walk along the river. The frosted towpath, a magical mist lifting off the water, and the quiet morning calm offer a moment of peace before the shopping excitement begins.
Festive Finds in Richmond Town Centre
Richmond’s independent boutiques and high-street favourites make it one of London’s best spots for Christmas shopping. Whether you’re searching for the perfect homeware gift at Søstrene Grene or a luxury skincare present from Aesop, a choice of children’s treasures at Newbie or The Works, stylish winter fashion at Jigsaw, or sweet stocking fillers from Hotel Chocolat, you’ll find it all within a few beautifully decorated streets.
As your shopping bags start to fill, you’ll be ready for a well-earned festive break…
Recharge with a Three-Course Feast at Bill’s
After your walk, duck into Bill’s where the warmth and aroma of festive dishes instantly greets you. Their Festive Set Menu is the cosiest treat: three courses from £35.95, available now until 30 December. Think King Prawn Cocktail, Turkey Breast with Festive Stuffing, and that unmissable Sticky Toffee Pudding. It’s everything you want from a Christmas meal - indulgent, comforting, and perfectly seasonal.
Make It Magical for Little Ones at The Ivy
If you’re spending the day with family, take the magic up a notch with Breakfast with Elves at The Ivy. Due to popular demand, new dates have just been added (13 and 22 December) joining the existing 14, 21 and 23 December slots. It’s a festive experience children remembered long after Christmas has passed.
Twisted Trimmings to Take Away
Or if you want to grab something on the go, check out Leon’s Twisted Christmas menu. From Twisted Trimmings Sandwiches to the Baharat Turkey and Aleppo Cranberry Bowl’d Rice, there are plenty of delicious take aways to keep the hunger pangs at bay.
Finish with a Pint at One of Richmond’s Cosiest Bars
To round off your day, grab a cosy corner at All Bar One and enjoy a pint of JUBEL, MODELO or VERDANT LIGHTBULB for just £6 until the end of November, and cheers to Christmas in Richmond.
Richmond is the perfect place to embrace the Christmas spirit - from unique gifts and festive dining to magical experiences for the whole family. Wrap up warm, grab your shopping list, and spend a full festive day soaking up everything the town centre has to offer.
