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The perfect Christmas weekend in London

It’s that time of year again, the shops are stocking up on seasonal wares, and the Christmas adverts are hitting our screens as the countdown to the big day officially begins. If you’re still stuck for inspiration on what to do, check out our idea for the perfect Christmassy weekend in London.

Friday:

Arrive in the Capital raring to go. Many of our London-based hotels are situated conveniently close to transport links so there’s no worrying about travelling for miles to get to your great value accommodation. Base yourself in the heart of the action at one of our Central London hotels.

Our Central London hotels

First up, head to the Palladium for some pun-filled panto fun with a production of Snow White. Dawn French stars as the Wicked Queen alongside pantomime royalty, Julian Clary, who’s set to play the man in the mirror. Laugh, marvel and join the festivities as they recreate this Disney classic. For more winter theatre inspiration, check out our winter theatre guide below.

Our Winter theatre guide

Belowzero ice bar London

As a post-show treat, take yourself off to Belowzero – the coolest ice bar in the Capital- for a cocktail or two with an icy twist. From their quirky bar designs that change every year, to their unique food and drink menu, you’re sure to get a warm welcome here and have a truly unforgettable experience.


Saturday:

Sefridges London
It’s time to hit the shops! Whether you’re after a little treat for yourself or a great gift for someone special, you’re sure to find something in London. Oxford Street is the perfect location for some retail therapy, with a mix of high street giants such as Primark, Debenhams and John Lewis neighbouring the high-end fashion boutiques of Liberty and Selfridges. Every year Oxford Street is dressed up in lights for the festive season and Selfridges are always eager to join in by creating elaborately decorated shop windows. This year, the theme is ‘Selfridges Rocks Christmas’, which is sure to be an eye-catching spectacle.

For more spectacular sights take a visit to Chiswick House whose night walk and light display are sure to lighten up your dark winter evening. Tuck into delicious street food and wander the dozen light trails that glow through the whole of the 18th Century house and gardens.

Finding somewhere cosy and quiet to rest for a while can be difficult in the busy capital, but why not go and grab yourself an igloo to relax in at the Coppa Club? Take a seat in one of these snug capsules, kick back and enjoy the view of the London skyline as you sip a warming hot chocolate.


Natural History Museum ice rink 2018

Sunday:

From shopping to culture, London has you covered. Today, why not head over to the Natural History Museum and explore their exhibits for the day? Then you can get your skates on in the evening and have a race around the ice rink just outside the tourist hotspot

Winter Wonderland London 2018

If the ice rink experience hasn’t got you in the Christmas spirit, head over to Hyde Park to Winter Wonderland for some seasonal excitement. As well as a market and the big wheel, there will be many new attractions this year, including a comedy club, ice sculpting workshops and a new immersive cinema experience featuring children’s favourite ‘The Snowman’.


Southbank Winter Market 2018

Monday:

Who says your weekend has to stop on a Sunday? Make your weekend that little bit longer and stay on until Monday without paying a fortune for the privilege. Plus there’s so much to do in London that having an extra day to explore will ensure you get the most out of your trip. Check out the Southbank Centre’s winter market where you’re sure to find glorious goodies, sparkling lights, mulled wine and that festive feeling. Top traders from around the world bring an array of handmade festive delights and delicious street food to the riverside. Each trader brings their unique spin to the feast, with stalls offering Asian, Indian and Greek cuisines, traditional winter favourites like raclette and bratwurst, and sweet treats including waffles and pancakes.

To finish your trip on a seasonal high, why not head over to Kensington Palace to watch a Christmas movie at The Luna cinema. Elf, Home Alone, Love Actually and Miracle on 34th Street are just a few of the classics on the bill leading up to the big day.


Read more:

Winter theatre guide

Top Christmas markets