Yes, I know it’s only turned October, and yes I know we haven’t had Halloween yet – but you can’t blame me for forward planning! As much as some of you want to think that Christmas is ages away, before you know it you’ll be panic buying in amongst the hundreds of other people at the shops. This is NEVER a good idea because you know…
So it’s got me thinking, what do I need to do before the big day? Every December, I catch the train to London, and spend a long weekend there. From where I live it’s a two and half hour journey, so it’s not too bad actually. I go every year, it’s basically a family tradition. We go because it’s my mothers birthday and she loves going to see a West End show. Even though we’ve already booked to see one, I definitely think we should take a look at what else London has to offer over the Christmas period. Here’s a few things I’ve found that are bound to get anyone into the Christmas spirit.
Leicester Square
New for 2016, Leicester Square will be transformed especially for Christmas. From November 11th to 8th of January, the ‘square’ in Leicester Square will include a Santa’s grotto and a ‘vintage Spiegeleltent’. Um…a what? Bascially, in here you’ll find tonnes of Christmas shows and the world famous La Soirée circus. Not entirely sure how they’ll incorporate a circus with Christmas but I’m game! There’ll be tonnes of other stuff including food and drink, what’s not to love about this?
Christmas Markets
An obvious one I know, but I love looking around the different stalls at Christmas markets. For a proper traditional one, Germany is definitely the place to be, but as I won’t get chance to just pop over there – London will just have to do for now. I reckon it’ll be a perfect place to pick up some unique gifts. Whether you’re looking for something hand crafted or you’re like me and a total foodie, you’re bound to pick up a perfect present.
Ice skating
I could go ice skating all year around, so it’s not really a Christmassy thing as such. In London though, you’ll see ice rinks popping up at popular places like the Natural History Museum and Canary Wharf to name just a few. They usually start around October (so expect to see some soon) and stay there until February-ish. Of course I want to iceskate outside the museum and pretend I’m dancing with Harry on the set of the ‘Night Changes’ video, who doesn’t?!
Hyde Park – Winter Wonderland
Running from November 18th to January 2nd, you’re not going to want to miss this. From winter markets to even more ice skating (you can never have enough ice skating), there’s so much to see any do. If you fancy going to another grotto, they’ve got one here too. And if you’re feeling brave enough, you can go on the big wheel! Give me a rollercoaster any day, but I’m petrified of Ferris wheels.
Kew Gardens Illuminations
The gardens are beautiful all year around, but with a touch of some magical illuminations – it’s going to look even better! From the 23rd of November to the 2nd of January, you’ll be able to walk along a mile long trail which will lead you past some massive Christmas trees and a scented garden. I can just imagine inhaling the scent of spiced apple and cinnamon, my favourite! Of course there’ll be a Santa’s grotto here too and a vintage carousel. Sounds amazing! You can buy your tickets here
So there you have it, just a few things to do in London at Christmas that look and sound totally awesome!
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