Christmas at Coal Drops Yard, London

Winter falls on London, with blistering winds, early sunsets, and grey days. But the city lights up everywhere for the holiday season, chasing away the chilly gloom with cheery decor, warm drinks, and of course the famous Christmas markets.

Coal Drops Yard, Kings Cross

Last weekend we headed out to Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard for the Lower Stable Street Market, a festive market showcasing handmade ceramics, art, clothing, baked goods, and delicious drinks from local artisans. 

Lower Stable Street Market

We came to visit this particular stall by artist Katherine Tso (or katscribblz on Instagram), a Hong Kong-born artist currently living in London. Her specialty is cute charms based on nostalgic Hong Kong food items like dim sum, milk tea, and pineapple butter bread.

This year she is donating 20 percent of her profits to those affected by the devastating Wang Fuk Court fires in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong. Our friend Cherrie, also from Hong Kong, brought us to visit the stall and buy some keyrings and sculptures to help out.

There were also cute cups and sculptures by ceramicist nyankopots, mulled wine and cider, coffee and matcha in many flavours and many other things to catch our attention. But it was the location itself that stole the show.

We've written about Coal Drops Yard before and how much we like walking around the shops and parks. We miss picnicking there and enjoying the fountains in the summer and it can feel quite grey when we watch the sunlight disappear and the night fall far too early. 

Half moon over Kings Cross

But the low light and sunset can be really beautiful. The air around the busy roads and train station is still polluted despite the new emission zone restrictions, but just like in the Philippines, that means gorgeously coloured sunsets.

Twilight over Camley Street Natural Park

The nature reserve across the canal provided us with a soothing rest for the eyes after the busy markets. We watched the canal water reflecting the trees as they transition from autumn to winter, the blazing colours of the sky, and the light from the bridges and boats.

Of course it was at night that Coal Drops Yard really came alive. The lights and crowds brought warmth to the chilly night and harsh winds, making everything feel cozy...as long as we stayed wrapped up!

The central attraction of the whole place aside from the markets was the huge Christmas tree set up in front of the fountains. As the sun set the fountains turned off and the Christmas lights turned on, creating a golden glow that was doubled by the huge pools of shallow water.

Over it all shone the moon and the city lights, creating a glamour that harmonised perfectly with the seasonal atmosphere. It felt good to know that even when the festive lights are taken away and London plunged into the deep winter of January and February, we will still have some glitter to enjoy.

This year more than ever, as we enter December we wish fervently for peace on earth and goodwill towards all.