When it comes to getting in the festive spirit and making Christmas memories to remember, London continues to top the list year after year. There’s never a shortage of things to do in our capital city, from Christmas at Kew to the Santa Run.
Check out these 10 things you won’t want to miss in London this Christmas.
1. Christmas shopping at Battersea Power Station
Battersea Power Station finally opened to the public in October, with the iconic London landmark now hosting an array of shops, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. This is the perfect place to complete your Christmas shopping whilst treating yourself to a great day out. Take a trip up the Chimney Lift for a unique 360 view of London’s skyline, then fill your boots with tasty delights at one of the many eateries.
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2. Explore Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
Few things say Christmas to us like visiting a Winter Wonderland, and Hyde Park draws us back each year. There’s no limit on festive activities to keep you entertained, with enough rides for any thrill-seeker, including a real ice slide where you can challenge your friends and family to a race. If that wasn’t cold enough for you then pop into Bar Ice for a cool drink, or visit the Magical Ice Kingdom. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as they can sell out, especially close to Christmas.
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3. Ice Skate at Hampton Court Palace
The Hampton Court Palace ice rink is returning for another year to bring festive fun for all the family. Skate across the incredible outdoor ice rink as you take in the views of Henry VIII’s Tudor home. If you’re not a natural on the ice, take a break to enjoy some food and drink whilst you watch from the sidelines.
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4. Walk the light trail at Christmas at Kew
Every year Christmas at Kew brings magic into our lives with their winter trail, filled with glistening tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and illuminated trees. Take a stroll through the enchanting fire garden, visit Father Christmas himself and indulge in tasty festive treats! Make sure to book your tickets soon as they often sell out quickly.
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5. See a Christmas show
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If you are a fan of the theatre then December is an exciting time of year, bringing festive classics back to centre stage. The story of The Nutcracker has bought the Christmas spirit to families for more than 200 years now, and many have made it a tradition to watch the ballet performance. Why not take the kids to see A Christmas Carol, The Snowman or Frozen, or if you’d like a twist on a classic, Dolly Parton’s Smokey Moutain Christmas Carol opens December 8th.
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6. Watch a Christmas movie at Backyard Cinema
Backyard Cinema have been bringing the magic of Christmas to life for years now. Choose your favourite Christmas film from the wide selection of modern and classics. You’ll have to board the Arctic Express train to the North Pole before cosying up to enjoy the festive movie. The newest London venue features the Big Topbar where you can indulge on cocktails and snacks before and after your movie. Grab yourself a film-themed pizza – will it be The Breakfast Club or Cast Away? The bar also features live music on select evenings.
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7. Visit the Christmas markets
London is host to some of the best Christmas markets in the UK and we believe that the Covent Garden Christmas Village is not to be missed. Returning on November 8th this year, you’ll find that this terrific event provides lots of exclusive activities and entertainment. Explore the many stalls of unique gifts and festive food whilst soaking up the Christmas spirit, of which there is plenty.
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8. Take part in the Santa Run
London’s largest Santa Run takes place in Victoria Park, with thousands of people dressing up as Saint Nicholas before setting out on either a 5k or 10k! Once you have finished the run, recover your tired muscles to the sound of Christmas carols whilst enjoying a delicious mince pie. Each runner is provided with a free Santa costume, although elves, reindeer, snowmen and anything merry are welcome if you’d like to wear your own costume. Plus, kids can take part in the Mini Santa Run.
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9. Join a Christmas carol singalong
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One of the best ways to feel that Christmas magic is to sing Christmas carols, from Silent Night to Good King Wenceslas. Why not go all out this year and join the Christmas Carol Singalong at the Southbank Centre. Jonathan Cohen returns to lead the show with the London Concert Orchestra as you sing your heart out to all the Christmas classics.
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10. Have Christmas-themed afternoon tea
Christmas-themed afternoon tea is all the rage, with a number popping up across the capital city this time of year. Winter Wonderland afternoon tea at Podium Restaurant and Bar showcases a range of merry pastries and sweet treats. Alternatively, Christmas Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London is served in The Crystal Moon Lounge where they have a choice of two festive afternoon teas – traditional or caviar!
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