LULU LE VAY, DECEMBER 2017
Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word, appropriated from Norwegian, used when acknowledging a feeling or moment. Whether alone or with friends, at home or out, it’s about being cosy, feeling good – warm and fuzzy. Think dim lights, open fire, woolly sock – simple happiness. And it’s all the rage at this time of year when the wintry days and nights are upon us. Luckily, it’s not just for the Danes, we can embrace hygge in London too. Here’s how.
The Cutty Sark PubThis is a real find. Head out to Greenwich and you will find this gorgeous pub sat on the river Thames at Ballast Quay. It’s a bit of a walk from the station, but well worth it. The views from the restaurant upstairs are stunning, and they even have a sign up saying ‘Hygge found here’ as you enter. And they’re not wrong. There’s nothing more cockle-warming than eating hearty food and drinking wine while looking out across the chilly waters. The prefect Christmassy spot in south east London.
Zetter Townhouse You can’t get more snug than this in the heart of Clerkenwell. This Georgian townhouse has been transformed into a 13 bedroom hotel and cocktail lounge, that makes the ideal getaway. If you plan on staying there, the rooms are so scrumptious you will struggle to leave (four poster beds? Yes please). But just visit the cocktail bar – luscious warm reds, leather sofas and cocktails to die for. More like slump, not snug.
ScandiKitchenIf you want to immerse yourself in the Danish experience, then you may as well go straight to the heart of it at the ScandiKitchen on Great Titchfield Street. Catch up with a friend over a Cinnamon bun and a hot chocolate, or if you want something more hearty you can also get stuck into the traditional pølsen hot dogs smothered in remoulade and crispy onions. Better loosen than belt.
The Three Kings Another spot in Clerkenwell that embraces all things hygge. This small pub is a London favourite for those in the know. In close location to the St James church, this pub has a contemporary Dickensian feel with a warm atmosphere. Creative industry types and knowing city folk mingle over quality ales and comfort food of sausages, hummus and pitta. The perfect for an afternoon session.
