Another Christmas blog! We promise it won’t be for much longer, but there’s just so much going on in London town that we think you need to know about, so that you don’t miss out on the festive fun. Whether you’re a foodie, craftie, or simply feeling merry, the Christmas spirit has spread through the whole of London with all your favourite market fairs and more back for another exciting year. Wherever you are, there’s a Crimbo market waiting for you! Here’s our recommendations…
Central London
Starting centrally, you’ve got four incredible destinations to visit this December and all have the Christmas atmosphere perfect for your last-minute shopping, a sip of mulled-wine or an easy wander through a wintery world. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary until the 2nd January 2017, Winter Wonderland is once again lighting up Hyde Park with even MORE attractions to entertain than last year; it’s set to be another must on your to-do list. This year, expect festive celebrations like no other, ideal for a family day out, romantic date or even a wind-down after a long day at work. New activities for 2016 include spectacular shows, such as The Nutcracker on ice, a Christmas circus and a very daring Cirque Beserk show, taking Winter Wonderland to new heights! Bar Ice is back and ready to serve your extra chilled beverages from a festive cocktail menu in an ice glass (gloves advisable), ideal to take a special someone for a unique experience. Lastly, how can we forget that Wonderland is also a thrill-seekers paradise, with rides and rollercoasters from the Munich Looping (the largest transportable rollercoaster) and the favourite giant wheel where you can gaze down on the celebrations below. Join in this season with the new and old activities guaranteed to leave you feeling the Christmas spirit.
Other central pop-ups worth visiting include the Leicester Square, Southbank and Tate Modern markets. Leicester Square is home to a special Santa’s Grotto, perfect for families with young children to tell the magical character what they would like for Christmas (of course, only if they have been good). Southbank’s collection of chalets offering very cute crafts and gifts is great if you are stuck for shopping inspiration. Also with carol singers and pretty twinkling lights, it’s a tranquil atmosphere to leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside! As usual for every winter, the space between Tate Modern is filled with beautiful wooden chalets to give a real traditional vibe. Admire the hand-made wooden figures, stunning jewellery and unusual Christmas decorations for your home. Then, treat yourself to a classic crepe or tasty roasted walnuts with a cosy cup of gluhwein, lovely!
North London
Perhaps due to the general chaotic nature of Camden Town, expect festive celebrations to happen only every Thursday up until the big day. You’ll find stalls, food and bars all accompanied with live music and a different theme each week, so some of it remains a surprise for you to discover. Up in Islington, more than 60 stalls will be set up and selling gifts, crafts and tempting food for two weeks only in December. Be sure to bring your little ones to meet Santa there too! Lastly in the north of London is the small and sweet Sunday Artisan market which is great for those who are looking for something a little different (and slightly more peaceful). You can pick up fascinating original artwork and prints, clothes and accessories, ceramics and other crafts. Rather than your traditional crepe and mulled-wine, try some flavoursome Peruvian foods with a hot drink… and maybe a cake if you can’t resist the temptation!
South London
Another annual market returns to London Bridge this year, fashioning traditional German chalets and displaying a perfect combination of tasty treats and homemade gifts created from over a hundred different independent traders that are keen to show what they can do. If you pass by one evening after work, sip on a Christmas cocktail, craft beer, mulled-wine or opt for some hot cider to wind-down and soak up the atmosphere before heading home. Also featuring at London Bridge market will be live music, film screenings and other entertainment. For the shoppers who desperately need some gift inspiration, or for those who want to give even more this Christmas, look no further than Cockpit Arts open studios over the Christmas period. These special workshops at multiple venues are a great opportunity for you to support independent designers and to find something that won’t be anywhere else on the high-street. There are more than 170 participating for the 30th anniversary this year and you are sure to find something for your loved one, whether it be furniture, jewellery, silverware or lighting.
We could literally go on until Christmas advising on what you can get up to this season with your family, friends, partner or even colleagues, there’s something for all. Plan your visit to the festive markets today before January arrives and they’re all gone! The tree is up, the lights are on and we’re ready to celebrate Christmas with you. The Georgian House has some great offers to help you enjoy the winter even more. Take a look at our exclusive offer that includes a £20 Harrods voucher, some mulled wine and a cheeky mince pie with your stay! Go on, it’s our gift to you.