Columbia Rd

Columbia Road’s Christmas shindigs are legendary. In the past, they were a wholesome hotspot for mulled wine, shopping and carolling – until last year when, thanks to TikTok, they saw a surge in popularity that reached dangerous levels. Since then, the carols have been cancelled, but the street’s festive Wednesday events are still running. Head down to Hackney, and you’ll find its independent shops open late for all your present buying needs, plus mulled wine and mince pies on hand to give you much-needed sustenance as you shop. Recommended: Get your carolling fix at these London carol services and singalongs instead