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The best of Christmas in London

During winter time, the capital puts on a real show, and with the holiday season fast approaching, why not get together for a Christmas stay in London?

From West End shows to Christmas shopping, here’s our recommendations for your Christmas stay in London:

1. Skate at Somerset House

Get on the ice at London’s most beautiful ice rink at Somerset House, creating memories that will last for years. Take the kids in the day and zip around on the rink before sipping on hot chocolate and nibbling on festive food at the Fortnum and Mason’s Lodge. Little skaters can take full advantage of the Skate School and Polar Bear Club, a great place to learn to take to the ice, and The Christmas Arcade is a wonderful place to find cool stocking fillers.  Or visit at night and be a part of some of London’s most magical Christmas parties. Stay at our Travelodge London Covent Garden hotel, only half a mile away.

2. Escape to Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is one of London’s most popular Christmas attractions and for good reason! Every year a corner of Hyde Park is transformed into a fun fair that’s solely dedicated to winter fun. Here you can explore the Christmas Market, raise your heart rate on classic rides, party in Bar Ice or take in a show with the Enchanting Cinderella on Ice. The Big Wheel is a wonderful way to view the lights of London, and for an extra special trip why not stop by the Circus Megadome? Entry to Winter Wonderland is free,  but some parts are ticketed, so we’d advise you book ahead. Make the most of your festive trip and book our Travelodge London Central Marylebone hotel.

© Christine Matthews

3. Watch a Christmas ballet with a twist

Matthew Bourne is known for his wonderfully wacky dance shows that are always performed around Christmas. This year, Cinderella is on show at Sadler’s Wells. Adapted from the classic fairytale, this version is set in London during the Blitz. Book our Travelodge London Central City Road hotel and you’ll be under a 10 minute drive from the action.

4. Taste Christmas at Borough Market

Nothing says Christmas liked mulled wine and mince pies out in the open air. So Borough Market, one of London’s top foodie destinations, should definitely be on your list of places to visit. With special Christmas opening hours, you can take your time and browse stalls piled high with seasonal produce like nutmeg jam and fresh gingerbread, all while watching the lively hum of the market. Borough Market demonstration kitchen is a top place to pick up festive cooking tips to impress your friends and family back at home. As you’ll be only a short walk from the river, a stroll along the Thames is a great way to work up an appetite beforehand. Our Travelodge Central Waterloo hotel is only a mile away.

5. Hit the shops

You’ll find no shortage of impressively decorated places to do Christmas shopping in London, no matter what your wish list includes. Children will love a trip to Hamley’s Regent Street, while nearby Oxford Street is the place to visit for all your high-street and designer buys. South of Leicester Square, Covent Garden has a lovely mixture of staple shops and seasonal stalls. Be sure to take some photos by the towering Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square before taking your precious buys back to the Travelodge London Central Marylebone hotel, under 10 minutes on the tube.