If you’re spending time in the capital this Christmas, take a look at our Concierge’s guide to what’s on offer!
Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park, 18th November – 2nd January
Winter Wonderland has 13 rides that bring thrill to the Festive season! They also have an amazing Ice Bar, various street food vendors, winter themed bars and the wonderful Bavarian village which has amazing chalets. The Continental Market is not to be missed. They also have two amazing shows performing daily; Zippos Christmas Circus and Cirque berserk. They are both jaw-dropping, fast-paced acrobatics which will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This year, you must book your tickets in advance. Entry is free during off-peak periods and costs £5.00 or £7.50 for peak hours. You can stay as long as you like once you have entered. If you spend £25.00 on any of Winter Wonderland’s attractions, rides or games the entry ticket will become free (when booked in the same transaction). For further information visit Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Christmas at Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, 18th November– 8th January
Discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Journey through the mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, spot larger-than-life illuminations and say hello to Father Christmas along the way.
Skate at Somerset House
Somerset House, 16th November – 15th January
The magnificent ice rink transforms the neoclassical courtyard into the essential winter destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree, with specially curated decorations from Moët & Chandon, providing perfect picture moments.
From skating lessons with Skate School, to the ultimate nightlife sets from trailblazing DJs on rink-side decks at Skate Lates with UNIQLO, there is something for everyone across the Skate season. Gourmet dining also returns at Chalet Barragiste with Jimmy Garcia, providing the perfect post-skate treat at the pop-up alpine restaurant. Further treats off the ice can be enjoyed at the Skate Lounge by Moët & Chandon, where indulgent champagne and cocktails await.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
Until 2nd January
Wander past the wooden chalets filled with handmade crafts, cool gifts and delicious treats at the Trafalgar Square Christmas market. Afterwards, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine at the bar while listening to carol singers perform festive tunes by the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree.
Leicester Square German Market
12th November – 3rd January
Experience festive fun with Christmas in Leicester Square, which gives the home of blockbuster film premieres a yuletide makeover. Browse the traditional market filled with a wonderful array of crafts and tempting treats.
Covent Garden Christmas Market
Until 1st January
Be dazzled by hundreds of thousands of glittering lights decorating Covent Garden, which is home to the three daily markets filled with handmade crafts and unique gifts for Christmas. More activities in the area include The Winter Warmer Festival, festive-themed photo opportunities and even a daily sprinkle of snow.
Carols at the Royal Albert Hall
Royal Albert Hall – various dates, please consult Concierge
In the spectacular surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall for what’s set to be London’s finest carol concerts of the season. These special concerts have become a festive favourite over the years and 2022 is no exception.
A Christmas Carol
Old Vic Theatre – Saturday, 12th November – Saturday 7th January
Ebenezer Scrooge is a cold-hearted man, but three Christmas spirits offer him one last chance to mend his ways. The Old Vic’s smash hit returns for a new celebrity-helmed holiday run. From the writer of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, this is a fresh take on a Christmas tradition. Check out more about A Christmas Carol tickets at the Old Vic today.
Festival Fayre
Hampton Court Palace, 2nd December – 4th December
A delicious festive weekend, set in the magnificent grounds of Hampton Court Palace. Eat, drink, shop and be merry, all whilst soaking up the atmosphere and spirit of the season, with festive entertainment from the East Front bandstand.
Borealis at Guildhall Yard
City of London, 11th December – 22nd December
Be amazed by a one-of-a-kind light installation inspired by the Northern Lights! Immerse yourself in the free-to-view installation watching as multi-coloured lights dance through the sky over Guildhall Yard in the City of London, mimicking the movement of the natural Aurora Borealis phenomenon.
Evening of Cheese
Borough Market, 15th December
Enjoy a wide variety of products from all over the world, including wines, ciders, chutneys and lots of cheese. This year, take advantage of tastings and seek expert advice from cheese connoisseurs on how to put together a festive cheeseboard featuring the highest quality cheeses.
Ever After Garden
Grosvenor Square, Until 23rd December 2022
To celebrate the festive season, Grosvenor Square has once again transformed into the Ever After Garden: a beautiful space filled with a sea of illuminated white roses. Visitors are able to dedicate pre-planted roses to loved ones they have lost – and the cost of each rose will help to raise funds for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
Peter Pan Cup
The Serpentine at Hyde Park, 25th December 2022
For a truly unique Christmas Day spectacle, head over to The Serpentine’s Swimming Club for their annual Peter Pan Cup. The club’s Christmas Day race has been held every year since 1864 with the course spanning across 100 yards. This is a Strictly a spectator event however, it is one of London’s quirkiest Christmas traditions.
The Great Christmas Pudding Run
Covent Garden, Date TBC
One of the most exciting events of the Christmas season, this charity fun run takes place in London’s iconic Covent Garden.
Teams of four in an array of fantastic fancy dress outfits – imagine Santa Claus, Reindeer, Super Heroes, Minions and more – take on the challenge of a fun-filled festive obstacle course complete with giant inflatables all whilst carefully balancing a Christmas Pudding on a tray.
Gingerbread City
Museum of Architecture, 3rd December – 2nd January
Over 100 leading architects from landscapers to engineers and designers ditch their conventional building materials for gingerbread. This year there will be five tiny biscuit cities to see across five different climate zones: Polar, Continental, Temperate, Dry and Tropical, with the pro-builders thinking about how we need to think differently about building around the world. It’s a feast for the eyes, but resist the urge to nibble!
