Celebrate Chinese New Year 2026: Your Guide to the Year of the Horse in London
The vibrant streets of London are preparing to welcome the Year of the Horse, and if you’re planning to join the festivities on Sunday, 22 February 2026, finding the right base is essential. Whether you’re here for the iconic parade or the world-class dim sum, the search for hotels near Chinatown starts now.
While staying in the heart of Soho offers excitement, many travelers are discovering that staying just a few stops away—at Hotel Indigo London Paddington—offers the perfect balance of boutique luxury and seamless access to the celebrations.
What’s Happening for Chinese New Year 2026?
London’s Lunar New Year celebration is the largest outside of Asia. In 2026, the official "Festival of Spring" events are centered around Sunday, 22 February. Here is what you can't miss:
The Grand Parade (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Starting at Trafalgar Square and snaking through Charing Cross Road to Shaftesbury Avenue, the parade features Europe’s largest gathering of Chinese lions and dragons.
Trafalgar Square Main Stage (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Witness the traditional "Lions’ Eye-Dotting Ceremony," followed by martial arts displays, traditional dance, and live music.
Chinatown Lions: Throughout the day, lion dance troupes visit local businesses in Chinatown to bring good luck, creating an electric atmosphere of drums and firecrackers.
Why Skip "Chinatown Hotels" for Paddington?
When searching for Chinatown hotels or places to stay near Chinatown London, many visitors find the immediate area can be incredibly crowded and noisy during the festival.
Hotel Indigo London Paddington offers a sophisticated alternative. Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century townhouse, our hotel provides a peaceful retreat without sacrificing convenience.
Why we are one of the best places to stay near Chinatown:
The Elizabeth Line Advantage: From Paddington Station, the Elizabeth Line will whisk you to Tottenham Court Road (the gateway to Chinatown) in just 5 minutes.
The Bakerloo Line: Prefer Piccadilly Circus? The Bakerloo line takes you directly there in approximately 16 minutes.
Boutique Comfort: After a day of navigating the bustling crowds of the West End, return to a stylish room inspired by the local history of Paddington.
Book Your Year of the Horse Stay
The demand for places to stay near Chinatown London is always high in February. To ensure you have the perfect home base for the 2026 festivities, we recommend booking early.
Experience the magic of the dragon dances and the flavors of Gerrard Street, then retreat to the comfort of Paddington.
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