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Top 10 things to do in London this Christmas

Nov 05, 2019
London at Christmas

Being in the capital for Christmas is a truly unique experience. The festivities take over the city and there are lots of Christmas events that take place. From ice skating at the Natural History Museum to overlooking the Thames in an igloo. Indulge in the festive season with our top 10 things to do in London this Christmas.

1. Visit the Trafalgar Square tree

5th December 2019 - 6th January 2020

In the run up to Christmas, you'll want to visit the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree. This has been donated by Oslo every year since 1947, as a sign of gratitude for Britain's help during the Second World War. The tree is prominently displayed in the square and is adorned with twinkling lights. Carol singers fill the square with quintessential Christmas songs, making it a must-see event this December.

2. Ice skating at the Natural History Museum

19th October 2019 - 12th January 2020

Perfect for the whole family, the Natural History Museum opens up its ice rink once again this year. Family prices start from £39.60 and all tickets can be bought online through Ticketmaster. The ice rink is wheelchair accessible and even offers quieter times if there are those that require it. A great day out for the entire family, this is one event you won't want to miss.

3. See the lights at Kew Gardens

20th November 2019 - 5th January 2020

Kew Gardens host a spectacular after dark trail, where they light up the night sky with dazzling installations. From glittering trees to a laser projection on the iconic Temperate House, Kew Gardens is definitely the place to go this Christmas.

4. Catch a show this Christmas

It wouldn't be Christmas without shouting "He's behind you!" So why not visit your local pantomime this Christmas. From classic tales such as A Christmas Carol to new favourites like How The Grinch Stole Christmas. You can experience all the wonders that pantomime has to offer. There are a range of venues showing different shows, so find your local one here.

5. Take in the displays at world famous London stores

The window displays that adorn world famous stores at Christmas are something to be admired. Stores such as Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty London go all out, with displays that could only be dreamed of. In the run up to Christmas, the streets are filled with shoppers and visitors who have travelled to view the displays. In 2018, Selfridges displayed a 'partying Santa' across 12 windows which was seen by more than 100,000 people everyday. So for a festive day out, why not visit these historical stores and their famous window displays.

6. Get festive at a Christmas market

Visiting a Christmas market, sipping on hot chocolate or mulled wine, is a must-do this year. Also, with a vast range of handmade gifts, ornaments, food and drink, there's plenty of things to see and do at London's Christmas markets. Dotted all across the city and ranging in price, there's something for everyone this Christmas.

7. Go carol singing at St Paul's Cathedral

With a long history of importance within London culture, St Pauls Cathedral is the perfect place to belt out Christmas carols this year. Ideal for the whole family, carol singing is a festive tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages, when 'to carol' meant 'to dance'. Nowadays, we use carol singing as a way of spreading Christmas joy or raising money for those less fortunate. It's a family friendly activity that can help you to get into the Christmas spirit.

St Pauls Cathedral is a popular place for visitors around the festive season, so to secure a seat, it's best to arrive early. Visit here for more information about this traditional event.

8. Visit the winter igloos overlooking the Thames

If you're looking for a little sophistication this Christmas, Coppa Club offers a unique experience on their Tower Bridge terrace. Their famous igloos offer up a cosy shelter from the winter weather and a stunning view of the London skyline. With a range of cocktails and delicious food, you can get into the festive spirit in a totally unique setting.

This stunning terrace is just a stones throw away from our Landmark Place development, which also boasts stunning views across the Thames.

9. Enjoy Christmas classics at a pop-up cinema

For something a little different this year, visit a screening of your favourite Christmas film in a pop-up cinema. There are lots of venues across London playing different films, so there's something for everyone. From classics such as Miracle on 34th Street to Love Actually, there'll be a perfect film to get you into the Christmas spirit.

10. Experience the ultimate Winter Wonderland

21st November 2019 - 5th January 2020

Last, but by no means least, is London's must-see event Winter Wonderland. Famous for its fully immersive Christmas experience, Winter Wonderland is the perfect place to visit this year. With exciting attractions, their very own Bavarian village and the UK's biggest open-air ice rink, there's plenty to keep yourself and the whole family entertained. Winter Wonderland is an event designed to excite and entertain at every corner for the whole of the Christmas season.

 

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