Halloween has been and gone which means we’re officially on the lookout for the John Lewis ad and starting to bring boxes of tinsel and lights down from the attic.
These two things alone are enough to get us in a festive spirit but if you’re in need of some extra inspiration to help get everyone geared up for Christmas then we’ve lined up eleven of London’s best activities for families over the coming weeks.
Image credit: Covent Garden London
From 8th November: Covent Garden at Christmas
From the morning of November 8th, Covent Garden’s christmas lights will be switched on and the iconic 60ft tall Christmas tree will make a comeback. In the lead-up to Christmas, families can enjoy an array of festive trees expertly decorated by Covent Garden’s horticultural team in the Wonder Wood, the Winter Warmer Festival and Christmas markets to mark the season. Covent Garden will also have a traditionally-decorated sleigh in the main square for the first time, bringing that extra touch of magic and endless photo opportunities. Find out more here.
Image credit: Regent Street
From 9th November: Regent Street Christmas Lights
From November 9th, the famous ‘Spirit of Christmas’ scheme will return to Regent Street. These lights are truly an iconic part of London at Christmas and are definitely not to be missed. We know that little legs can get tired walking for extended periods so if you don’t fancy seeing the lights on foot, there are also a number of festive open top bus tours that pass by some of London’s famous landmarks and cover some of the city’s most impressive Christmas lights.
Image credit: Daylesford Organic
10th November: Daylesford’s Christmas Preview
In the lead-up to Christmas, Daylesford will be hosting a series of festive events at their London farmshops. One that particularly caught our eye is their Christmas Preview in Notting Hill. While mulled wine, prosecco, food tastings and in-store discounts appeal to parents, there will also be the opportunity for children to meet real-life reindeer and really kick off the festive season. Find out more here.
Image credit: Timeout
From 16th November: Skating at Somerset House
This month, the courtyard at Somerset House will once again be transformed into a magnificent ice rink complete with a show stopping 40ft Christmas tree. There will be skate school sessions for those aged 8 and above who are keen to learn as well as a dedicated kids’ skate club for ages 6 - 10 to skate in a safe, friendly environment under the supervision of Somerset House’s ice marshalls.
There are, of course, regular sessions throughout the day as well which will have a much livelier atmosphere, including DJs, festive music and plenty of food and drinks on hand.
Image credit: Christmas at Kew
From 18th November: Christmas at Kew
This winter, Christmas at Kew is returning for its tenth anniversary. Highlights include a music and water display at Kew’s iconic Palm House, immersive installations lining the trail and winter warmers of hot chocolate and mulled wine along the way so there’s plenty to be enjoyed by all ages. Find out more here.
Image credit: Winter Wonderland
From 18th November: Winter Wonderland
It’s hard to do a roundup of the best festive activities in London without mentioning Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. This iconic attraction has a huge range of activities including ice skating, live entertainment, traditional christmas markets, fairground rides and games so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Food and drink are also in plentiful supply so you’ll never need to look too far for a mulled wine, hot chocolate or Bavarian-inspired snacks.
Tickets now need to be reserved in advance and will sell out fast so click here to book.
Image credit: Timeout
From 19th November: Pantomime
While repeatedly bellowing “oh no he isn’t” might not be a parent’s ideal way to spend a Saturday night, there is something joyous about watching our children enjoy the magic of a pantomime in the lead-up to Christmas. This winter there are a number of pantos to choose from in London including Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Mother Goose and Cinderella. One we have our eye on is Jack and the Beanstalk at the London Palladium which will include an appearance from comedy favourite, Dawn French.
Image credit: ZSL
From 26th November: The Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo
A trip to the zoo is magical in itself but ZSL London zoo have some festive treats lined up in the lead-up to Christmas including: marshmallow toasting, a trip to the Polar post room to send your letter to Santa and a few guest appearances during feeding time from the big man himself. Find out more here.
Image credit: Christmas at Kenwood
From 2nd December: Christmas at Kenwood House
From December, Christmas at Kenwood will return to Hampstead Heath with its iconic light trail and enchanting installations that run throughout the stunning grounds, captivating all that visit. Find out more and buy tickets here.
Image credit: Alexandra Palace
From 2nd December: Meet Santa at Alexandra Palace
Santa Claus is taking up residence at Alexandra Palace this December, meaning children can meet him in-person and really bring the magic of Christmas to life. Each child will receive a small gift and get the opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa in his festive grotto. We expect tickets will go fast so get in quickly.
Image credit: The Royal Albert Hall
From 3rd December: Carols at the Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall has a jam-packed programme over December, from Christmas carolling to traditional concerts, jazz, drag, soul, classic ballet and so much more. A couple of family-friendly events that particularly stood out for us were Home Alone in Concert on December 10th and A Christmas Carol on December 11th but there’s plenty to choose from to bring the magic of Christmas alive for all ages. More info and tickets here.
Image credit: The Royal Opera House
From 6th December: The Nutcracker Ballet
For those who don’t already know the story of the Nutcracker, it centres around young Clara on a magical adventure in a wintry wonderland all danced to Tchaikovsky’s score. This ballet is such a classic and captivating experience for children and adults alike and is not one to be missed this Christmas. Find out more here.