December 26th is Boxing Day sales. Imagine Black Friday, but with British politeness and a lot of tutting. Harrods becomes a human pinball machine. If you go, wear armour—or just wait until late afternoon when the crowds thin out. Your prize? A discounted teapot and a story about the woman who almost fought you for a cashmere scarf.
Or, skip the shops entirely. Go to Hampstead Heath for a walk. The views are stunning, the air is crisp, and you’ll feel smug watching the shopping bags below. Plus, there’s a pond where you can feed swans. They’re as grumpy as Londoners, but they’ll take your stale crackers.