The Winter break is a fantastic time to get outside and try something new. I often find that the Christmas period provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the company of my loved ones and friends in new, exciting ways. If you’re spending the holidays in London this year, there are plenty of wonderful things you can do to make the most of the season. Here are four fun things to do this Christmas.
1. Attend a Carol Service
Taking part in a carol service is one of the best ways to enjoy yourself and celebrate Christmas. During this period, many different churches will spend time putting on carol concerts for the general public to attend. Concerts of this nature traditionally contain Bible readings, choral performances, and carols for the congregation to sing.
These provide amazing opportunities to follow the Christmas story and hear beautiful, traditional Christmas songs. Christ Church Mayfair which is local to the LSE area, will be holding carol concerts throughout the month of December, as well as on Christmas Day. Why not pop in and take part in one of their carol services? Don’t worry if you’re not the best singer. The main enjoyment comes from taking part and singing the carols together.
2. Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland is one of the most popular and anticipated Christmas activities for people of all ages. Held annually in Hyde Park from November to January, it’s a huge event with a plethora of rides, games, Christmas markets and decorations for you to enjoy. Entry costs just five pounds for an off peak visit, and once you’re inside, you can choose which attractions you want to pay for.
Once it gets dark, the lights and music will make you feel like you really are in a winter wonderland, as well as the Christmas themed rides and stalls. If you’re feeling brave, you may want to ride the “Wilde Maus”, known for its G-force. If you’re slightly less adventurous, you might decide to do some shopping in the markets instead. Either way, make sure you wear plenty of layers and enjoy one of London’s most festive attractions with a hot chocolate in hand.
3. See the Christmas Lights at Oxford Street
Oxford Street is the busiest shopping street in Europe, and for good reason. With the variety of shops it holds, it’s a place where you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for, especially in this season where buying Christmas gifts is a priority for many. Oxford Street at Christmas is also known for its 300,000 lights which decorate the busy streets from the afternoon until late at night. Going to see the decorations and taking pictures in front of them with your friends is a great way to remember the fun you had over the season.
4. Go Ice Skating at Somerset House
This is one of the best locations to go ice-skating in London. The outdoor ice rink at Somerset House is set in a grand neoclassical courtyard with a beautiful view of an extremely tall Christmas tree to add to the festivities. You don’t have to have experience on the ice to enjoy this festive activity either.
Many people enjoy themselves by skating with the assistance of the bars at the side as they gain their confidence. If you are confident to skate, there’s also plenty of space to do so safely. People of all abilities come to the ice rink to get a taste of this fun activity and by the time you’re finished, you’ll want to go again for another round of skating. Since it’s outdoors, wrapping up will be essential to your enjoyment. Take your hat, gloves and scarf, and head out to Somerset house for some skating fun.
