Not sure if London is the best place to be during the winter? We’ll do our best to change your mind today! In this post, we’re chatting about the best things to do in London during the winter.
1. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Perfect for families and singletons alike, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is the perfect place to embrace the best parts of the colder season. You’ll get the chance to try out a variety of activities, from skating to live music at the UK’s largest ice rink to unearthing mythical creatures in the Enchanted Forest. There’s also the opportunity to watch champion-level ice skaters, take a ride on the Giant Observation Wheel or get cosy at the Backyard Cinema. If you’re in the mood for something a little more thrilling, you can always drop by Zippos Christmas Circus during the day, or Cirque Berserk at night. And the best part of all? It’s free! There’s no excuse not to go now, head along this year and be sure to get into the Christmas spirit in the very best way!
2. London Christmas Markets
We all know that London’s a colossal city, with its equally large population of 8.136 million people. There’s plenty of Christmas markets to choose from across London, but we think we’ve narrowed down the best of the best for your festive enjoyment! Leicester Square is a great one to start with, as the famous square is transformed into what can only be described as a Christmas grotto. Christmas by the River is ideal for all the traditional market favorites, while you also get the added bonus of incredible views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. With 60 huts to explore, we’re sure that you won’t leave empty-handed! Greenwich Christmas market boasts a record 150 stalls, guaranteeing a full evening out and stocking fillers for everyone. And if you haven’t had your fill, there’s also Christmas markets in Kingston and Clapham Common too! With our expert guide to Christmas markets across Europe, you can’t go too far wrong!
3. Southbank Center Wintertime Festival
Turn to a Nordic-inspired winter scenario at the Southbank Center this year, which you’ll find at the winter-dedicated festival along the Thames. They set the scene to perfection at the Christmas markets with lines of wooden cabins and twinkling fairy lights that can be seen from miles around. And the best part about winter: all of the rich, delicious food! Try a range of festive treats, from hot chocolate, mulled wine, spiced cider, German sausages and of course, delicious mince pies dusted with a generous layer of icing sugar.
You can also get cosy and take shelter from the cold at the Hop Lock Bar or do the opposite and survey the incredible views from the Queen Elizabeth roof terrace. Or you can really embrace the festive cheer at Rekorderlig’s cider lodge by snuggling up by a glorious fire pit with a hot drink. Don’t forget to attend the Christmas concerts, performances and community shows, as well as ringing in the new year in style at the Vintage New Year’s Eve Party at the end of the year. With plenty of fun options available, the Southbank Center Wintertime Festival is a must-visit during this time of year!
Don’t forget to check out our range of London tours!
