City shopping destinations strike up festive partnership

Published:  17 October, 2011

This Christmas, shopping hotspots, Cheapside, Leadenhall Market, One New Change, Royal Exchange and department store House of Fraser are teaming up to host a festive shopping event.

For the first time at Christmas, historic thoroughfare and shopping street Cheapside will be pedestrianised on Saturday 3 December, creating a walking route stretching from St Paul’s to Poultry, and featuring festive fashion to the finest Christmas cuisine.

The event will be brought to life by a combination of family entertainment and unique offers from many of the 150 stores, providing a unique way for Londoners and visitors alike to enjoy.

Not only is it the first time the street has been closed for a Christmas shopping event, but it is also the first time in over a century that both Leadenhall Market and the Royal Exchange have opened their doors on a Saturday.

Ruth Duston, director, Cheapside initiative, said: "Cheapside is delighted to be able to showcase its great retail offer with a one day, traffic free event in the heart of the square mile. The day will host an array of street entertainment, Festive walks and a range of activity - something for all of the family. This event will provide a truly unique shopping experience and the chance to indulge in the city's rich cultural and heritage offer. See why Dickens chose this part of historic London as inspiration for his famous book - A Christmas Carol. What better place to start the festive season and soak up the spirit of Christmas under the sound of Bow Bells.”

Robert Goodman, centre director at One New Change, added: “When winter sets in, London transforms into one of the most festive cities in the world, and we assure you that the City of London will make that experience even more magical. Only here will you find the grandeur of St Paul’s, the romance of Victorian London and cutting edge shopping and dining all in one place”.