London becomes a Christmas wonderland between November and January, when the UK’s capital offers everything from sparkling festive illuminations to seasonal markets, shows and ice skating. (Not to mention world-beating shopping.)
Here are just some of the activities on offer at the most magical time of the year:
- Take a Christmas lights bus tour
Jump on board for a 90-minute tour of the capital’s festive streets, leaving from the iconic London Eye and taking in many of the city’s most famous landmarks. But there’s a twist: you’ll see it all amongst a dazzling array of twinkling Christmas lights, and enjoy panoramic views of all the after-dark sparkle and magic. (Alternatively, just stroll around and see the lights for yourself.)
- Catch a show
At this time of year, there’s plenty of choice if you want to take in a seasonal show in the West End or elsewhere. Catch ELF The Musical at the Aldwych Theatre or A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story at north London’s Alexandra Palace. Paddington The Musical is at the Savoy from November, while for a gloriously traditional, glamorous experience, The Nutcracker ballet at the London Coliseum is hard to beat. Meanwhile, there are carols and the London Community Gospel Choir at the Royal Albert Hall. Finally, there are pantos in and around the city (oh, yes there are!), including Cinderella at Richmond Theatre and Robin Hood at Wimbledon.
- Stroll through a festive market
Christmas markets offer the perfect chance to experience more festive lights, sample delectable street food and pick up some unique gifts or enjoy mulled wine plus other seasonal treats. Timber chalets featuring artisan goods line the Thames at the Southbank Centre, while Leicester Square hosts a similarly enchanting Yuletide haven.
- Enjoy a taste of Dickensian London at The Great Christmas Feast
An immersive, multi-sensory activity awaits in West Kensington at The Great Christmas Feast. Step into the world of Victorian London, with storytelling, live music and immersive theatre plus a three-course meal inspired by the era.
- Get your skates on
This is always a wonderful wintertime experience, and London offers pop-up rinks where you can twirl across the ice against a festive backdrop. Both Hampton Court Palace and Somerset House offer some brilliant seasonal skating.
- Visit Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
This is a Christmas highlight in the heart of the city, and transforms one of the capital’s best-loved parks into a festive playground. Look forward to everything from après-ski-themed bars to an outdoor skating rink, rides, stalls and circus shows. And if you’re able to make a daytime visit during the week, this attraction is likely to be less busy.
- Get out of town
Follow the renowned light trail at world-famous Kew Gardens just outside London and take in the larger-than-life illuminations while keeping an eye out for Father Christmas! There are plenty of sweet treats, street food and winter warmers like hot chocolate along the way. Meanwhile, at Hampton Court, the Festive Fayre with more than 100 artisan vendors is back in December at Henry VIII’s palace in the Great Fountain Garden, offering yet more chances to eat, drink and be merry.
These are just some of the attractions and activities on offer across London this Christmas. And if you’re in town over the season, either on a leisure visit or on business but with family or with plenty of time to take in the sights, you’ll need somewhere to stay.
37GS Residences at Christmas
Over Christmas, hotels, despite their best efforts, can feel rather impersonal. Serviced apartments offer a cosier alternative, with plenty of room in which to spread out and feel at home. In a hotel, for example, you can’t usually stretch out on a sofa or wander into the kitchen in your dressing gown. Serviced accommodation gives you complete freedom, for example, to eat out, order in or cook for yourself.
At 37GS Residences, our 22 exquisitely curated luxury apartments in London’s Golden Square all have between one and three bedrooms. You’ll be steps away from all the glitz and glamour of Mayfair, Soho and Piccadilly Circus, so you’ll be ideally located to experience all the excitement and magic of London’s festive season, including everything mentioned above.
With 24/7 Reception, luggage storage, excellent Wi-Fi, plus regular cleaning, you won’t have to worry about a thing when you stay with us. Book now for Christmas, take a closer look at our accommodation and call 020 8158 3244 or email stay@37gsresidences.com with any queries.
