LUXE Serendipity magazine

By Donna Richardson

When the streets of Covent Garden sparkle with festive lights and the scent of mulled wine fills the air, there’s no better place to escape the holiday hustle than Courtyard Wine Cellars. Nestled beneath the historic arches of the marketplace, this intimate wine bar transforms into a cosy winter haven, perfect for travellers seeking a magical Christmas experience in London.

Step Into a Christmas Wine Wonderland

As you descend into the vaulted cellars, the city’s festive bustle melts away. Soft twinkling lights, candles flickering across walls lined with hundreds of wines, and seasonal decorations create a warm, enchanting atmosphere. With over 1,000 bottles from more than 100 regions, Courtyard Wine Cellars offers a global journey of flavours – from rich reds perfect for winter evenings to sparkling wines that add a festive sparkle to your glass.

The historic seven-arched cellars provide a labyrinth of cosy corners, ideal for intimate gatherings or quiet moments by the glow of candlelight. During the holiday season, the cellar is filled with seasonal touches – holly, pine garlands, and hints of cinnamon – adding extra charm to every visit.

Seasonal Flavours to Savour

No Christmas experience is complete without festive food. Courtyard Wine Cellars pairs its exceptional wines with cheese boards, charcuterie, and seasonal small plates, making it the perfect spot for a festive nibble. Think warming flavours that complement a full-bodied red, or lighter bites that pair beautifully with sparkling wine – all set against a backdrop of holiday cheer. Morning visitors can enjoy a Christmas-inspired coffee, while evenings invite indulgence in mulled wine and winter-inspired small plates.

We chose a festive sausage roll, salmon and sausage baguette and enjoyed a delicious Malbec to wash it all down. Seated in the Rothschild room we had the place to ourselves surrounded by exclusive wines from the banking families estate, The collection caters to every palate, from casual enthusiasts to seasoned connoisseurs, and also features a welcoming wine bar with private rooms available for hire, ideal for tastings, intimate gatherings, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine in good company.

Tour of the cellars

The collection spans an exciting selection of New World wines, including distinctive orange wines from Georgia, alongside bottles from Austria, Lebanon, Romania, Serbia, Australia, South Africa, and England. This international approach reflects the cellar’s passion for showcasing lesser-known regions as well as celebrated producers, offering customers the chance to explore wines beyond the familiar.

At the heart of the collection are the cellar’s strongest offerings from France and Italy. These classic wine-producing countries form the backbone of The Courtyard Wine Cellar’s selection. Italy, in particular, shines with standout wines such as Barolo-renowned for its structure, high tannins, and exceptional ageing potential. For those who prefer a lighter style, the cellar also stocks Italian favourites like Primitivo and Chianti, known for their softer, more approachable character.

Beyond still wines, The Courtyard Wine Cellar is also well stocked for those with a taste for the sweeter side of life. A strong selection of vintage ports makes it an ideal stop during the festive season, when a glass of Ruby Port paired with a mince pie or a warming sherry feels especially fitting. The collection is completed with a range of elegant dessert wines, perfect for rounding off a meal or enjoying as a treat in their own right. They also stock Lanson champagne for special occasions.

A Festive Retreat in Covent Garden

Covent Garden in December is magical: the marketplace glows with lights, street performers bring cheer, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air. Yet, beneath it all, Courtyard Wine Cellars offers a quiet, atmospheric retreat. The historic cellar, welcoming ambiance, and seasonal décor make it the perfect counterpoint to the lively streets above – a secret festive hideaway in the heart of London, where you can blissfully drift away for the afternoon. When you step outside you are treated to live operatic performances. Browse the charming stores in the wonderfully festive Covent Garden stores from Charlotte Tilbury to the new Chanel Pop up.

Alternatively head into the Applemarket and begin your festive shopping om the many craft stores. As you are close to the Royal Ballet and theatreland or the shopping mecca of Bond Street and Oxford Circus – you’ll have plenty to see and do.

Why You Should Visit This Christmas

• A magical atmosphere with vaulted cellars, candlelight, and holiday décor.
• Festive wine and food pairings that warm the soul.
• Intimate corners perfect for dates, friends, or quiet reflection.
• A unique London Christmas experience, away from the crowds.

This December, let Courtyard Wine Cellars be your cosy escape in Covent Garden. Whether you’re sipping a rich mulled wine, discovering a rare vintage, or enjoying seasonal bites, the cellar offers a holiday experience that feels intimate, festive, and unforgettable. With its breadth of choice, knowledgeable approach, and prime Covent Garden location, The Courtyard Wine Cellar offers more than just bottles on shelves -it provides an experience. Whether you are searching for a special vintage, a festive indulgence, or something new to discover, it stands as a welcoming and well-stocked haven for wine lovers in the heart of London.

Where to find us:

Courtyard Wine Cellars 17B and 18B The Market Building, London, WC2E 8RB