Beyond the hot-cross buns, classic chocolate eggs and family brunches, London is home to some truly fascinating Easter traditions—some historic, some cultural, and some downright unexpected. If you’re looking to experience Easter in a way that goes beyond the ordinary, here are five lesser-known yet deeply rooted traditions you can discover in the city.
1. The Widow’s Buns at The Widow’s Son Pub
In Bromley-by-Bow, a small East London pub carries a touching and unusual Easter tradition. According to legend, a widowbaked a hot cross bun every Good Friday, awaiting her sailor son’s return—only to be met with heartbreak when he never came home. Her ritual continued, and today, the pub honours her memory by adding a new bun to a growing collection suspended in a net above the bar each Good Friday. The ceremony is often attended by sailors and locals who gather to pay tribute to this bittersweet tale of love and remembrance.
Just a short journey from Roseate House London, this tradition is a wonderful way to experience the city’s hidden history while staying in an equally historic setting. Our boutique hotel’s location near Paddington places you within reach of London’s most fascinating stories, making it an ideal base for a culturally rich Easter weekend.
2. Greek Orthodox Midnight Easter Service
Easter in London isn’t just about British traditions—it’s a melting pot of cultures. The Greek Orthodox community marks Easter with a breathtaking midnight service on Holy Saturday. At St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Kentish Town, the church fills with candlelight as the congregation gathers for the Resurrection Service. You can expect Byzantine hymns, incense-filled air, and a truly moving experience that connects faith and tradition.
3. Święconka: The Polish Blessing of Easter Baskets
With a large Polish community, London embraces the beautiful tradition of Święconka. On Holy Saturday, Polish families bring baskets filled with symbolic foods—decorated eggs, bread, salt, and horseradish—to be blessed in a special church ceremony. You can witness this tradition at Polish churches such as the Church of St. Andrew Bobola in Shepherd’s Bush, where the community gathers to uphold this centuries-old Easter custom.
After taking part in this cultural experience, retreat to our refined luxury and Victorian charm, complete with handcrafted Bellestraat beds that offer a sense of old-world elegance And with The Hyde Restaurant and Bars divine menu, you can continue the celebration with a seasonal culinary experience in an intimate, stylish setting.
4. Beating the Bounds at the Tower of London
An ancient practice dating back to medieval times, ‘Beating the Bounds’ sees parishioners walking the historic boundaries of their church with willow branches. While this tradition was originally a way to reaffirm parish land, at the Tower of London, it has taken on a ceremonial aspect led by the ‘Yeoman Warders.’ This rare but fascinating ritual offers a glimpse into a bygone era of London’s history.
With its own deep connection to history, Roseate House London, a luxurious boutique hotel in Paddington is the perfect complement to an experience like this. Located on Westbourne Terrace, once described as ‘the finest street in London, and facing St James’s Church, where Oscar Wilde married, the hotel places you in an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
After witnessing an age-old London tradition, return to this boutique retreat for a serene afternoon tea in Central London, or unwind with a cocktail in The Hyde Garden, an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city.
5. The Chelsea Bun House Legacy
In the 18th century, the Chelsea Bun House was the place to be at Easter, drawing thousands—including royalty—for its famous Chelsea buns. Kings George II and III were known patrons, and the shop would sell tens of thousands of sweet, spiced buns during the season. While the original Bun House no longer stands, London’s love for rich, sticky Easter buns remains strong, with top bakeries continuing the legacy with their own modern takes on this classic.
To experience unique Easter events and traditions in London and to do it in true London style, a luxury stay in London this Easter at Roseate House London is a must. It places you at the heart of the city’s rich cultural heritage, just moments away from historic traditions, hidden gems, and indulgent seasonal delights.