Visit a Christmas market
European cities are quite famous for their lovely little Christmas markets, and London gets in on that as well with some world-famous ones as well as lesser-known local favourites.
Southbank Center Winter Festival
Every year along the Southbank is the pop-up Winter Festival, run by the Southbank Centre, the UK’s largest arts centre. Naturally, the festival’s most popular feature is its winter market, with its stalls lined up along the River Thames, and it’s got the usual stalls and spots to eat, drink and shop.
But what makes the Winter Festival more special than the others is the arts and theatre programme. Along with plenty of free art and light installations all around the Southbank area, many winter nights will have at least one or two art exhibitions or musical performances you can get tickets for. Check the website to see what’s on when you visit.
Winter Festival at Southbank Centre | Southbank | WA | 2nd November – 3rd January
(WA= Wheelchair Accessible)
Winter Wonderland
This needs very little introduction, it’s a super famous fair that happens every year. Located in Hyde Park, expect to browse over 200 Bavarian huts selling festive drinks, food and winter-themed gifts. There’s also plenty of fairground rides, an ice skating rink, karaoke area, and other activities, both free and ticketed.
It’s £1 to visit Winter Wonderland during off-peak periods, and you can then add rides, attractions, food, drink and activities. Heads up here– this is THE most famous Christmas-themed thing to do in London and therefore the crowds get absolutely insane. We recommend you keep reading for some, erm, better alternatives.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland | Hyde Park | WA | 19th November – 3rd January
Greenwich Christmas Market
Pop down to Greenwich on a December Saturday and you’ll find over 150 stalls with a beautiful selection of items for sale, like stocking fillers, original artwork, eco-friendly candles, handmade jewellery and more, with everything being British-designed-and-made.
Of course, once you’ve finished your shopping you can visit one of the many food stalls selling street foods or grab some mulled wine to warm you up.
This year, you can also witness a spectacular Greenwich lantern procession and the switching on of the twinkling Greenwich Market Christmas lights on the 18th of November.
Christmas at Greenwich Market | Greenwich | WA | From 18th November
Kingston Christmas Market
Head to Kingston, a leafy suburb in south London for a winter-themed market in its popular market square. Food lovers can choose from bits like artisan cheeses and handmade baklava, and can shop for gifts like ornaments, art prints, or wool hats and gloves, all sold out of cosy winter cabins. #ShopSmall!
Kingston Christmas Market | Kingston | WA | 12th November – 26th December
