Forgot Password
November 14, 2025
Why celebrate Chinese New Year in London
London’s Chinese New Year celebrations are among the most vibrant outside Asia, blending centuries-old traditions with the city’s unmistakable cosmopolitan energy.
Every February, London’s West End transforms into a festival of red and gold to welcome the Lunar New Year. The Chinese New Year festivities, centred around Chinatown, Trafalgar Square, and Leicester Square, attract over half a million people annually. From the thunder of the lion and dragon dances to the aroma of street food stalls and the glow of lanterns lighting the evening sky, the city radiates with excitement.
The Year of the Horse begins on February 17, 2026, with major events and parades expected across central London the following weekend.
Top Chinese New Year events in London to add to your list
What makes London special is how it merges ancient rituals with modern flair. You’ll find traditional blessings and parades alongside street performances, live music, and family workshops.
Here’s your guide to the must-visit celebrations during the Lunar New Year:
Chinese New Year in London.
Where to stay in London for Chinese New Year
If you’re planning to spend Chinese New Year 2026 in London, finding the right place to stay is key. Whether you’re travelling as a family, couple, or looking for a long-stay apartment, some of the city’s best-connected areas include Tower Bridge, Victoria, and Liverpool Street, which offer easy and quick access to the celebrations.
Blue Orchid Hospitality has three hotels in London to suit families, couples and those looking for long-stay options near Tower Bridge, Victoria, Westminster, and Liverpool Street.
Our hotels, Tower Suites and Tower Residences beside the Tower of London, and The Wellington in Westminster near Victoria station, combine luxury, location, and local culture, placing you close to London’s major Chinese New Year events at Chinatown, Trafalgar Square, and Leicester Square.
Tower Residences by Blue Orchid Hospitality
Day Trips from London During Chinese New Year
If you’re planning an extended stay in London during Chinese New Year, take advantage of our hotels excellent connectivity to explore nearby cities that also host cultural events and scenic attractions.
1. Cambridge (50 minutes by train)
Enjoy a relaxing day trip to Cambridge to visit its historic colleges and take a scenic punt along the River Cam. Some local communities also host small-scale Chinese New Year markets and events near Market Square.
2. Oxford (1 hour by train)
Explore Oxford’s iconic architecture, museums, and riverside cafés. During Chinese New Year, Oxford’s community centres often host traditional music performances and lantern workshops for families.
3. Greenwich (30 minutes by boat from Tower Pier)
Hop on a Thames Clipper from Tower Pier (just 2 minutes from Tower Suites and Tower Residence) and visit the maritime town of Greenwich. It’s perfect for families seeking a quieter day with panoramic views and riverside dining.
4. Windsor (1 hour by train from Victoria Station)
From The Wellington, Windsor is a quick and easy escape. Visit Windsor Castle, stroll along the River Thames, and experience British heritage away from the bustle of the capital.
Oxford, England
Book your hotel in advance
If you want to stay close to Chinatown or Trafalgar Square, without the crowds, secure your booking early for the best rates and flexible stay options.
Our hotels provide contemporary luxury and well-connected stays that let you enjoy the city’s festivities without the hassle of long travel or overcrowded areas. You can also search our latest offers and packages.
Tower Suites & Tower Residence by Blue Orchid
Perfect for families or long-stay guests, these hotels near Tower Bridge offer spacious suites, kitchenettes, and easy transport links to Liverpool Street, Canary Wharf, and central London.
Nearby attractions include the Tower of London (2-minute walk), Tower Bridge (2-minute walk), Sky Garden (10-minute walk), Chinatown (20-minutes), The Garden at 120 (10-minute walk) and the West End (20-minutes).
The Wellington by Blue Orchid
Located in Westminster, just minutes from Victoria Station, this elegant hotel is ideal for couples or weekend visitors and is just steps from Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, and Trafalgar Square, the heart of the festivities.
Nearby attractions include Buckingham Palace (15-minute walk), Westminster Abbey (10-minute walk), Big Ben (15-minute walk), Covent Garden (10 minutes by Tube), and Trafalgar Square (20-minute Tube).
Tower Residences by Blue Orchid Hospitality
Learn more about Blue Orchid’s hotels
Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple on a city break, or staying long-term, our properties offer contemporary luxury accommodation near the best celebration zones during the Lunar New Year Festivities.
Book directly through BlueOrchid.com for the best available rates, exclusive offers, and flexible booking options.
Celebrate Chinese New Year London FAQs
1. Ideal locations for easy access to festivities
All three of Blue Orchid’s hotels are located in key central districts by Tower Bridge, Victoria, and Westminster with direct Tube routes to Chinatown, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden. This means you can enjoy the parades and performances by day, and retreat to a quiet, comfortable suite by night.
2. Our properties are designed for families, couples, and long-stay guests
Families can enjoy fully equipped suites at Tower Residence with kitchens and laundry facilities, while couples can relax in the boutique comfort of The Wellington’s refined rooms. Long-stay guests benefit from apartment-style living at Tower Suites, ideal for those who want flexibility during an extended London visit.
3. A peaceful base near London’s landmarks
During Chinese New Year, central London can be crowded, especially around Leicester Square and Soho. Staying at a Blue Orchid hotel gives you the best of both worlds with easy access to the celebrations and proximity to London icons like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
4. Restaurants and Spa
After a day of festivities, unwind with dinner at Italian restaurant Cento Alla Torre (by Tower Bridge) or Indian Restaurant Tiffin Tree (Westminster), both part of Blue Orchid Hospitality.
Guests staying can also rejuvenate at Adamo Spa, part of Tower Suites or enjoy a morning workout at one of our hotel fitness centres before heading to the parade.
5.Exclusive offers and family-friendly amenities
We frequently feature winter and festive season offers, making them great value for families and international guests. Complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge service, and spacious suites make your stay seamless during the busy holiday season.