A Visit To Claridge's Christmas Tree

Dec 11

Dec 11 A Visit To Claridge's Christmas Tree

Once upon a time the start of the festive season was hailed - for me - by crunchy lawns on frosty mornings; the first sightings of red holly berries; local Christmas tree farms opening their gates and weighty handwritten envelopes starting to appear on the doormat.

Having been a London-dweller for almost ten years now though, I look out for different symbols, and have adapted my own rituals to mark the start of the season. Beautiful garlands threaded with fairy lights appearing round the butcher’s window; the smell of cinnamon emanating from the baker and our local delicatessen hanging every imaginable panettone from the ceiling of their tiny shop are all part of our little London village tidings that Christmas is on the way.

Inside the house I prefer a gradual decoration process - adding festive elements into each room, bit by bit: Following a trip to Copenhagen I was inspired to place a traditional advent candle on the side table in the hall - it was intended to be instead of a chocolate one, but that lasted all of five minutes.

Beside it stands a jug filled with ‘english’ eucalyptus, and the usual grey tapered dinner candles above the fireplace have been replaced with deep Christmas-red ones.

I’ve made the wreath - larger than usual and rather smothering the front door - but something about the year just makes me want to go bigger on everything for Christmas: Pheasant tail feathers from the last Scottish shoot {we operate a strict nose to tail policy}, will also be tucked into garlands when the time comes.

Further afield - as I could honestly spend the entire month hibernating indoors - I force myself up and out for as many lovely festive parties as I can manage, donning a red lip or a velvet/sequin at the vaguest hint of an invitation. A particular highlight this year was a very English seasonal get-together with the lovely folk over at Nyetimber.

And a traditional Christmas pilgrimage for me has become a visit to see the Claridge’s Christmas tree - and this year I was fortunate enough to be invited along for breakfast to see it unveiled.

Arriving early on Davies Street, I was in time to see the designer of this year’s tree, Diane von Furstenberg, being photographed outside. So in we tripped behind DvF, where Mimosas were proffered and the hotel’s famous cake trolley heaved under the weight of doughnuts emblazoned with zodiac symbols. Remembering these were, in fact, not the main event, I averted my eyes and weaved through the lobby to peek at the tree itself.

Standing six-metres high, DvF’s Tree of Love is coloured in an iridescent blue that is decorated with delicate silver leaves and over 150 hand-blown glass hearts. Hidden amongst its branches are sculptural animals, including a wise owl, a regal peacock and a tiny, sleeping mouse.

Designed with the help of renowned astrologer Shelley von Strunckel, it is enclosed by the natural alcove of the art deco staircase, which is decorated with a midnight blue wallpaper printed with astrological star signs {I’ve put in my request for off cuts}, beneath a an array of dazzling stars. In short, it’s a beaut!

“It’s roots come from the earth, its’ branches extend to the sky…It is the symbol of strength, enlightenment and life.” - DvF on her tree design.

There are few places as festively glamorous than Claridge’s at Christmas, so why not stop-in for a peek at the cool and calm Tree of Love and a nightcap in The Fumoir Bar - it’s open until 1am - or be sure to look when you collect your gift hamper - packed with treats such as wax-sealed bottles of aged Negroni - guaranteed to see you through until 1st January.