Are you ready to celebrate the end of 2017? London is hosting a range of winter-themed events to get you in a festive mood. Make sure you add them to your winter bucket list and take a look before the year is out.
In London
Hyde Park’s magical wonderland, a perfect way to spend a Christmassy night. Dance around the markets while listening to Christmas classics. Have a relaxing time warming up with a hot chocolate, or, for the adventure-addict, they have over 100 rides and games for you to try out. Book ice skating tickets before you go to ensure you have the whole experience.
Chiswick gardens has been illuminated with a vibrant and spectacular hand-made lantern display. Spend the night gazing at the life-size lantern sculptures and finish off in food market to try some traditional south-east Asian street food.
3. Museum of Architecture’s Gingerbread City
The Museum of Architecture has created a whole model city built of gingerbread. Discover the origins of gingerbread and spend a little extra cash to learn how to create your own gingerbread house.
4. Southbank Centre Wintertime Market
If you missed the snow in London, inside the Southbank Centre there is a blizzard show which leaves you knee deep in snow. Afterwards, take a walk along the River Thames and take your pick from the food sheds that are all decorated with bright fairy lights. Our personal favourite is the Saucy Chip – be sure to also try their burgers, despite their name that alludes to their nationwiderenowned chips.
If you are missing the summer weather, don’t worry HotTug has got it sorted. HotTug allows you to rent a hot tub sitting in Regent’s Canal to warm up during those frosty winter mornings. Afterwards take a short walk to Angel’s food district… we recommend a visit to The Breakfast Club to sample their delicious pancakes.
Around the UK
Birmingham has collaborated with the German city of Frankfurt since 1966 and their winter market is just one of the joint projects that they hold every year. Learn about German culture by trying some traditional winter delights such as, schnitzel, bratwurst and, glühwein.
7. Thursford Christmas Spectacular
See this 3 hour festive extravaganza being hosted in Norfolk. It celebrates the season with a cast of 130 singers, dancers and, musicians. Have fun singing along to yuletide favourites and recent chart hits.
Bristol’s yearly Christmas market has gorgeous bespoke items which can be the perfect stockingfillers. You can also find their famous Yorkshire pudding wrap in the heart of the market’s food village.
200 wooden chalets have been built in Bath’s city centre to host local shop keepers and producers, showcasing the best of the South West with gifts, food and, decorations.
For a heart-warming festive event, visit Manchester’s Chester Zoo to see their incredible lantern display. Along the pathways you’ll find animal-inspired fairy tale scenes and performance artists. A perfect family experience.
With any luck these activities will get you in the festive mood. Have a Merry Christmas.
By Anastasia K.