Its the season to be jolly and theres a lot to be jolly about in London at Christmas. The city is packed with great things to see and do so it is an ideal time to make new friends in London. Check out the list below to find something that takes your interest.
The Festive Period
Covent Garden Market is full of events celebrating the festive season. From impromptu carol concerts and gigs to a giant topiary reindeer, you can enjoy the market in style and finish your shopping trip with a warm glass of mulled wine at one of the many bars in the area.
Outdoor ice skating. This is a favourite with Londoners and tourists alike so wherever you go, it is a good idea to book in advance. Popular ice rinks are installed at the Natural History Museum, Somerset House and Alexander Palace. If these are fully booked for the Christmas season, there are others around the city that are worth a try too.
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree. Its huge and its travelled all the way from Norway so take a look before it gets chopped down in January.
Classical and carol concerts. These happen on almost a daily basis over the festive period and some of them are also free. Have a look online for one close to you.
The pantomimes. Christmas is pantomime season so if light-hearted theatre is what youre looking for, youll be spoilt for choice.
The lights. They were all switched on a while ago now, but Londons various Christmas light displays are definitely worth a visit. Oxford Street is the most famous venue but impressive displays can also be found on Regent Street, Bond Street and in Marylebone and Covent Garden.
Christmas Day
Due to the lack of public transport and motivation to do anything except eat and drink far too much, most people spend Christmas Day preparing a dinner, eating it then begrudgingly sitting down for the Queens Speech. For the more adventurous, there are a couple of events that might lift the yuletide stupor.
The Charles Dickens Museum. In memory of the man who created A Christmas Carol, the museum is open on Christmas Day and allows visitors to take a step back in time to the Victorian Period. Complete with fancy dress, mulled wine and a screening of Dickens classic novel, this is definitely a good choice for those who are looking for something different to do this Christmas.
Christmas Day walks (Charles Dickens and Samuel Pepys). Both walks follow in the footsteps of two of Londons most famous inhabitants. Enjoy the city at its quietest as this is the only day of the year when practically everything else will be closed.
New Year
New Years Eve parties: Whether you are looking for a club, a bar or even a Bavarian Beerhouse, New Years Eve parties can be found everywhere in London. Travel on all forms of London public transport is free between 23.45 and 4am.
Southbank firework display. This is a spectacular annual event that draws thousands of people to the London Eye every year. The event is televised so if the crowds put you off then you can still view the display from the comfort of your own home. However, the atmosphere alone is worth making the trip to the River.
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