St. Pancras International Station has garnered significant attention across on social media for several intriguing reasons. Notably, the recent surprise appearances of two renowned musicians, Sir Rod Steward and Alicia Keys, who delighted commuters with impromptu performances, spreading early Christmas cheer throughout the bustling station. However, the fervour surrounding St. Pancras International, is of course, the unveiling of their iconic Christmas Tree in partnership with Hatchards, London’s oldest bookshop. Here are a few reasons why Londoners and visitors alike are indulging in the magic of Christmas at St. Pancras this season!
St. Pancras Christmas Tree
Lighting up the station and bringing an ample amount of joyous spirit to London, the St. Pancras International Christmas Tree of 2023 draws inspiration from the enchanting power of books and train journeys to transport individuals to thrilling new destinations. The tree is a breathtaking spectacle, towering at a height of 12 meters and exhibiting a spiral staircase that gracefully winds around 270 shelves adorned with an impressive collection of over 3,800 books.
Within the tree, there are eight cosy nooks where children and adults of all ages can find solace and fully immerse themselves in the enchantment of Christmas, both figuratively and physically. Each booth is equipped with speakers that offer visitors the opportunity to select a brief, five-minute excerpt from an audiobook or reading provided exclusively by Penguin Books. Renowned authors such as Charles Dickens, Beatrix Potter, Zadie Smith, Robin Stevens, Gabrielle Zevin, Alice Winn, Rick Riordan, Michael Morpurgo, Richard Osman, and Tom Fletcher contribute to this remarkable collection. With a choice of sixteen distinct audio options available across the booths, guests can indulge their auditory senses. These snug compartments serve as an exceptional and complimentary attraction for the entire family, or simply as a tranquil oasis for those seeking a brief respite while journeying through St. Pancras.
Celebrating Literature at St. Pancras International
BookTok and other social media trends stimulated a 25% increase in reading for young people last year*. With reading on the rise and multiple studies noting the positive impact immersing yourself in a good book can have on mental health, St. Pancras and Hatchards have partnered on this inspiring festive tree design in the hope that it will inspire people to switch away from screens and disconnect.
St. Pancras International is not only home to the revered Hatchards, which has hosted events and book-signings from Richard Osmand, Nick Hornby and Ian McEwan in recent times. It has a long-established relationship to literature, from its patronage of Sir John Betjeman (Poet Laureate and railway enthusiast), who saved the station from demolition in the 1960s, to the station’s close proximity to The British Library, which houses treasured manuscripts from around the world. St. Pancras International is also home to Track Records, an annual poetry competition that inspires young people from the local area to express themselves creatively.
Christmas at St. Pancras International
The St. Pancras International Christmas Tree has become an iconic symbol for over a decade, known for collaborating with renowned brands and challenging the conventional definition of a Christmas tree. Over the years, their show-stopping tree has delighted visitors with music, mesmerising light displays, and even simulated snowfall, all aimed at spreading holiday joy to travellers and tourists. Serving as the centerpiece of St. Pancras International’s festive festivities, the tree is part of a larger offering that includes the Christmas Grotto, located on The Grand Terrace of St. Pancras. Enjoy a 20% discount on your grotto ticket from Hamleys and Hatchards.
Searcys Champagne Bar with a view
Journey back in time to the bygone golden era of rail travel. Searcys Champagne Bar located at the top floor of St. Pancras International offers both a stunning view of the magnificent Christmas Tree, and Tracey Emin’s poignant artwork “I want my time with you” as the backdrop. Watch as Eurostar trains roll in, bring with them a vibrant array of Christmas shoppers into the allure of London.
With a touch of a button, the iconic ‘Press for Champagne‘ is a feature which invites you to indulge in a moment of pure decadence. Searcys’ Champagne and Oyster Happy Hour offers 6 Colchester rock oysters and a glass of Searcys Selected Cuvée Brut Champagne for £19.50 (Mon-Sat 3-5pm), usually £39.00. See the menu here.
St. Pancras International has undoubtedly become the talk of the town this Christmas season, with its unexpected musical performances, the grand unveiling of the captivating Christmas Tree, and the blend of holiday sights and sounds. If you’re in search of some respite, the combination of a stunning view overlooking the St. Pancras International Christmas Tree, and exceptional champagne and oysters (’tis also the season), makes this a destination for a memorable experience this festive season. Cheers!
*2023 What Kids Are Reading Report
Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl | Photos: Kai Lutterodt / My London Times @mylondontimes
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