As the chilly winds sweep through the iconic streets of London, December transforms the city into a winter wonderland, offering an enchanting experience that captivates the hearts of locals and visitors alike. For a truly memorable stay in London this winter 2023, treat yourself by choosing the Washington Mayfair Hotel as your luxurious base. Here are some local attractions to visit on your December London break as you make the Washington Mayfair Hotel your home away from home.
London Lit Up
December brings a unique opportunity to see London lit up by thousands of dazzling lights. It’s so great they even host a bus tour so you can take it all in. The Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour offers a special journey through the illuminated streets of London with a night bus showcasing all the city’s Christmas lights. Tour around landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. All accessible from the convenience of the Washington Mayfair Hotel’s central location.
Bag a Bargain
December marks the onset of the much-anticipated winter sales, turning London into a shopping haven. The bustling streets of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street, all within walking distance from the Washington Mayfair Hotel, come alive with shoppers seeking the best deals on high-end fashion and luxury goods. Unleash your inner shopaholic and explore the myriad of stores, indulging in the city’s renowned retail therapy.
Captivating Theatre
London’s West End is synonymous with world-class theatre productions, and December offers a special experience with extra shows on offer for the holiday period. From classic plays to Broadway-style musicals, immerse yourself in the captivating world of live entertainment. The Washington Mayfair Hotel’s proximity to the West End ensures that the enchanting theatres are within easy reach, allowing you to experience the magic of the stage during your stay.
Outdoor Ice Rinks
Indulge in a quintessential winter activity by gliding across one of London’s enchanting outdoor ice rinks. The iconic rink at Somerset House and the picturesque setting at Hyde Park are just a short journey from the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Lace up your skates and twirl under the twinkling lights, creating memories of a London winter that will linger long after you return home.
Hyde Park’s Peter Pan Cup
Have you witnessed the Peter Pan Cup? An annual Christmas Day swimming race held in the icy waters of the Serpentine in Hyde Park. Cheer on the brave participants or join the onlookers in this quirky London tradition. Just step round the corner to Hyde Park to watch this exhilarating Christmas morning spectacle.
Winter Markets
London’s winter markets are a treasure trove of delights, from handmade crafts to delectable treats. Some of the top locations for 2023 are:
Southbank Centre
Covent Garden
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
Leicester Square
Greenwich
King’s Cross
The Washington Mayfair Hotel’s central location ensures that you can easily navigate the markets, take in all the sights and enjoy a mulled wine or two!
We look forward to seeing you this winter! We believe our cosy central London hotel is the most convenient base for your trip and the best hotel in London. Enjoy our spacious rooms our even upgrade to a suite for an extra special stay. Remember you always get our very best prices when you book direct, plus extra perks!
Mayfair is home to a unique shopping experience that you won’t find anywhere else in London. With delightfully British streets offering designer goods and finery’s that one might only dream of owning, there is something truly special about seeing such luxury all in one place. Bond Street is renowned as the go-to street for London’s opulence. Where Jewellery stores offer exclusive designs and rare stones, and the fashion is only the best. This special street is regularly frequented by the rich and famous and home to huge fashion names like Chanel, Gucci and Hermès. In fact, Bond Street is known to have the highest concentration of haute couture stores in Europe! A short walk from Bond Street, is another must-shop destination – Mount Street. A slightly lesser-known gem but no less dripping in luxury fashion and art. Hosting more big brand boutiques like Christian Louboutin and Jenny Packham, it showcases a perfect combination of modern shop fronts and Victorian architecture. Just don’t forget to let your mouth water over the beautiful pastries on offer in Pastricceria Marchesi. Indulge in a little slice of Milan and taste its skilfully made specialities using only the highest quality ingredients. You’re sure to find a treat on one of the original shopping streets in London! No Mayfair trip would be complete without a visit to Burlington Arcade. The Uk’s oldest and longest shopping arcade. Yet again, a lovely opportunity to combine some history and architecture with a splash of retail therapy. You can even book a tour with one of the ‘Beadles’ who, donned in their Victorian inspired uniforms, uphold the peace within the arcade. So no running allowed! The Beadles are known as one of the smallest private guards in the UK – You can’t help but be surrounded in British culture. For the next few months, a London shopping experience will be even more magical. The nights will be illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights. Bond Street’s decorations will be a little different this year and have been designed to celebrate the British Monarch. With inspiration taken from the Jubilee and the iconic crown jewels. So, you can be sure to expect crowns, necklaces, and tiaras aplenty. Creating all the glitz and glamour will be over 90 000 twinkling LEDS! Once you’ve shopped, you’ll need somewhere to drop! Come and take a load off your feet and admire all your new purchases at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Our cosy hotel rooms are situated in Mayfair only a short distance away from Bond Street and Burlington Arcade, so it makes the perfect destination to stay. Visit our website to book your stay and receive some special rewards if you book directly, as a little thank you from us. We hope you enjoy visiting this luxury area of London, our only advice… don’t spend too much!
As winter comes around we are all hoping for snowy picturesque scenes as we cosy up for the holidays but why not add a bit of excitement to December and book a trip to London where there are plenty of things on to enjoy winter to the full. Put yourself right in the centre of the action at The Washington Mayfair Hotel, enjoy Art Deco luxury in the most convenient of locations for a holiday in London to remember.
Don’t miss out on some special events planned just for winter like the city-wide pop-up ice rinks, transforming well known locations like The Natural History Museum, Canary Wharf and Hampton Court Palace. Book a place on the ice or have a drink with a view at one of the rink-side bars.
Seasonal Christmas markets are back and in full swing. Let yourself wander through the stalls sipping a hot chocolate a spiced latte or maybe even a mulled wine and sample a host of comforting street foods to warm you up from the inside. Conveniently, you can find these all in one place and local to The Washington at Hyde Parks Winter Wonderland which is open from 19th November to 3rd January. Ice skating, Christmas markets, a street food village and ice bar, not to mention traditional fairground rides and thrill zone for the brave among us, it really is a day out to remember.
Once you’ve had enough of the wintery scenes outside, how about enjoying them indoors by booking tickets to see The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum. Find yourself mesmerised by the spectacular performances of the English National Ballet as they perform to the well-loved Tchaikovsky score that is so synonymous with this time of year. Many London visitors make this sell out show a yearly tradition so make sure to book early so you don’t miss out. Booking from 16 December 2021 – 8 January 2022. For more winter show options, see the ultimate romantic comedy Love actually in concert with a live orchestra at the Eventim Apollo. Watch electrifying performances from skilled acrobats, trapeze artists and high-wire acts as they attempt jaw-dropping stunts and breath-taking feats, in Circus 1903 at the Royal Festival Hall. Or book tickets to see the magical Andrew Lloyd Webber classic of Cinderella at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Don’t forget to plan your break now for a stress-free holiday this winter or maybe give the ultimate gift of relaxation to a loved one. Here at The Washington we have 178 spacious bedrooms and suites perfectly suited to leisure or business needs. We are dedicated to providing the perfect 4* base central to London’s top attractions. All you need to do is book and let us take care of the rest. From luxury accommodation to a-la-carte dining in The Madisons restaurant. Book direct to always get out best offers and prices and stay at one of the best hotels in London. We look forward to seeing you this winter.
Are you visiting London in January? It is going to be great! Though the festive season is coming to a close and the days are still as dark and chilly as ever, there’s tons of fun stuff happening in London throughout the New Year to enjoy especially using The Washington Mayfair Hotel as a base. London’s attractions are quieter than usual this month and we have several winter hotel offers, so it’s a great time to enjoy a stroll around a museum and avoid queues at popular attractions. And, don’t forget, many of London’s attractions are free!
Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade, Burns Night and Chinese New Year. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1st January 2020
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30 mins from the attraction.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.
CIRQUE DU SOLEILAT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL – from 12 January to 1 March 2020
Cirque du Soleil return to London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2020, bringing their dazzling luminous spectacle, LUZIA to Europe for the first time. LUZIA takes you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul. With a surrealistic series of grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances, LUZIA cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity.
BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25th January 2020
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel.
CHINESE NEW YEAR PARADE – 26th January 2020
The Chinese New Year London events are the largest outside Asia and attract hundreds of thousands of people each year. Enjoy a colourful Chinese New Year parade, lion dances in Chinatown and delicious Chinese street food, as well as free entertainment and stage performances in Trafalgar Square.
TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – until 3 May 2020
TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the y Saatchi Gallerincludes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.
With lots of festive things to do, December is the most magical month to visit London. Here at the Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2019.
Get into the festive spirit during your December visit by experiencing some of London’s favourite seasonal activities: shop for handmade gifts and festive food at a charming Christmas market; go ice skating on one of the stunning outdoor ice rinks that pop up across the capital; enjoy carols and concerts accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies; and watch a Christmas pantomime, ballet or family show.
OPERATION SMILE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT – 4th December 2019
Operation Smile UK has announced that the London Community Gospel Choir, the Fulham Children’s Choir and celebrity readers will be joining them at their annual Carols by Candlelight on Wednesday 4th December 2019 at 7pm at the Grosvenor Chapel, Mayfair. The event will see a number of readings and musical entertainment, followed by refreshment in the chapel. Tickets for the Carol Service are £20 for an adult (Under 16 go FREE) All tickets include seasonal refreshments. Book your tickets here. The Washington Mayfair Hotel is only few minute’s walk from the Grosvenor Chapel.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.
CHRISTMAS AT ZSL LONDON ZOO – until 24 December 2019
Immerse yourself in the magic of ZSL London Zoo at Christmas as you step inside an igloo at the heart of the zoo to meet the man himself in Santa’s Grotto. It’s then time to journey around the zoo to discover more about its inhabitants. Get up close and personal with donkeys, camels and penguins, as they feast on their very own Christmas treats ahead of the big day. Also, relax and enjoy some time in front of the big screen at the Free Festive Film Screenings. Cosy up with tasty snacks and a hot drink and enjoy your favourite Christmas films. Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance with a valid zoo ticket or membership.
TOP ICE-SKATING RINKS IN LONDON
Covent Garden Ice Rink (until 26th December 2019)
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Tower of London Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Natural History Museum Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Somerset House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Queen’s House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME, BALLET AND FAMILY SHOW
English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum – 11 Dec-5 Jan.
More than 100 dancers and musicians tell the story of a young girl’s Christmas adventure that begins in snowy Edwardian London.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium – 7 Dec-12 Jan. 2020
This top Christmas panto in London includes Paul O’Grady, Matt Baker and Julian Clary, as Dame Betty Barnum and Goldilocks strive to save the beloved family circus.
Nativity! The Musical at the Eventim Apollo – 11-29 Dec. 2019
Based on the Christmas film series, this family-friendly stage adaptation features many of its catchy tunes, including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment.
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 5 Jan. 2020
Raymond Briggs’ Christmas story is filled with dance, storytelling and songs from the film, as the two friends embark on a magical adventure to the North Pole.
Mary Poppins at the Prince Edward Theatre – until 3 May 2020
Join Mary, Bert and the Banks family for a magical adventure this Christmas, and sing along to classic tunes including Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and a Spoonful of Sugar.
White Christmas musical at Dominion Theater – until 4 Jan. 2020
Catch a true classic with the stage production of the famous Bing Crosby film, White Christmas.
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2019
Hear Big Ben’s famous “bongs” ring out at midnight on New Year’s Eve in London, followed by the UK’s largest annual fireworks display over the Coca-Cola London Eye, presented by the Mayor of London. If you want to join in the celebrations on the night, you must have a ticket to attend.
November in London is brimming with fun and sparkles. There are plenty of things to do in November in London to make the most of the longer nights, or to warm up indoors. This month the city comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. It is also the month of the London Jazz Festival, The Lord Mayor’s Show, Winter Wonderland, South Bank Wintertime, Hogwarts in the Snow and Christmas at Kew.
Here’s our pick of the best events and things to do in November during your stay with us!
BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN LONDON – from 3 to 5 November 2019
Remember, remember the fifth of November……each year London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605. The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or more commonly Bonfire Night. The main firework action takes places on Sunday 5th November, but events will run before and afterwards. You can enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.
TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – from 2 November to 3 May 2020
TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the Saatchi Gallery includes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 7 November to 5 January 2020
Nothing signifies the approach of Christmas more than the glow of seasonal street lights. From the shimmering lights on Oxford Street to the beautiful decorations illuminating Covent Garden, don’t miss the world-famous London Christmas lights as the city is gloriously decked out for Christmas. Here’s our list to when London’s festive lights are switched on in some of the capital’s biggest shopping destinations.
Carnaby Street (7th November)
Covent Garden (12th November)
Marylebone (13th November)
Regent Street (14th November)
Oxford Street (21st November)
THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW IN THE CITY OF LONDON – 9 November 2019
Celebrate the new Lord Mayor as the spectacular procession winds its way between Bank and Aldwych for The Lord Mayor’s Show. The Lord Mayor’s Show dates back to 1215, when King John granted a charter allowing the citizens of London to elect their own mayor. Every year since, the newly elected Lord Mayor has travelled from the City of London to Westminster to pledge allegiance to the Crown. The procession kicks off at 11am from Mansion House with cadets, carriages, floats and bands moving through the streets, while festival zones at Paternoster Square and St Paul’s will see a funfair, archive film show, art installations and street theatre takeovers. Check the Lord Mayor Show event page for updates.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – from 21 November to 5th January 2020
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.
January 2019 is going to be great. Though the festive season is coming to a close and the days are still as dark and chilly as ever, there’s tons of fun stuff happening in London throughout the New Year to enjoy. The January sales are on, so you can shop at some of London’s top shopping destinations for less. Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade and activities for Burns Night. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1st January 2019
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30 mins from the attraction. Visit the official website for further information
WINTER WONDERLAND – until 6th January 2019
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2018 include the Magical Ice Kingdom’s Secret Forest, the immersive cinematic adventure with The Snowman™ Experience, presented by Backyard Cinema and the Ice Sculpting workshops where you can create your own ice sculpture. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.
NBA LONDON GAME 2019 AT THE O2 – 17th January 2019
Following eight successful sell-out fixtures, the NBA heads back to London’s iconic arena, which provides the perfect stage for this action-packed sport and an electric atmosphere for basketball fans. The Wizards, who boast the likes of Bradley Beal and John Wall in their ranks, are making their debut in London. While the Knicks return to the capital for a third time, bolstered by stars Kristaps Porzingis and Tim Hardaway Jr. The NBA London game never fails to attract a galaxy of stars courtside for this unmissable chance to see the pinnacle of basketball on our shores. Previous NBA London VIP guests at The O2 have included Premier League stars Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba, Alexis Sanchez, Dele Alli and Eden Hazard, alongside Paul McCartney, Gordon Ramsey and Ozwald Boateng. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25th January 2019
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.
HOGWARTS IN THE SNOW AT WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR LONDON – THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER – until 27th January 2019
The Harry Potter studio tours get a festive makeover once more this winter, with Christmas trees and a seasonal feast in the Great Hall, decorations in Gryffindor common room and snow drifts in Diagon Alley. Get up close to props, costumes and models used in the Harry Potter films. Take a look around the studio’s famous movie sets decorated as they were for the festive scenes. And find out how different types of artificial snow and ice were created and used in the films. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Can you hear those sleigh bells jingling? Of course you can. It’s December in London and it is the most magical month to visit the city. London’s shopping streets sparkle with Christmas lights in December, and shops are full of gift hunters finishing off their Christmas shopping. A focal point of the holiday season in London is Trafalgar Square, which resounds with carol singing around the capital’s biggest Christmas tree, and lights up with a giant Menorah for Chanukah.
Here at The Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2018.
TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Winter Wonderland – until 6th January 2019
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2018 include the Magical Ice Kingdom’s Secret Forest, the immersive cinematic adventure with The Snowman™ Experience, presented by Backyard Cinema and the Ice Sculpting workshops where you can create your own ice sculpture. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.
Winter Christmas Market at Southbank Centre – until 6th January 2019
Celebrate the winter season at Southbank Centre with festive shows, a Christmas market, seasonal food and drink, and family activities under the glittering lights. The majority of the Southbank Centre’s outdoor attractions are usually open from 10am-10pm daily. The Southbank Centre is normally entirely closed on Christmas Day, with outdoor attractions staying closed on New Year’s Eve. Visit the official website for more information.
Leicester Square Christmas Market – until 6th January 2019
See one of London’s most famous squares transformed for the festive during Christmas in Leicester Square. Browse more than 25 stalls for handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and more at the traditional Christmas market, plus treat yourself to some warming winter fare. Families with young children can also enjoy exploring Santa’s grotto and meet the man himself in the square’s enchanting festive atmosphere. Visit the official website for further information.
Christmas by the River at London Bridge City – 3rd January 2019
With stunning views of Tower Bridge, The Tower of London and the iconic City skyline, Christmas by the River is the perfect setting for the market which boasts 68 stalls selling gifts, food and drink. Christmas by the River will be the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a true Christmas market. Visit the official website for further information.
TOP CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND PANTOMIMES IN LONDON
The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House – from 3rd December to 15th January 2019
Loosely based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ballet begins in the 19th-century German home of the Stahlbaums, where they are hosting a lively Christmas party. The period setting is captured in opulent detail by Julia Trevelyan Oman’s designs, which include authentic Christmas tree decorations that are magically brought to life. Wright’s choreography ingeniously incorporates surviving fragments of the ballet’s original material, including the sublime pas de deux for the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince. But in emphasizing the relationship between Clara and the Nutcracker, the production also gains a touching subtext of first love. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Snow White at the London Palladium – from 8th December to 13th January 2019
Produced by the team behind Olivier award-winning Dick Whittington, this classic tale of good and evil is retold with the help of a stellar cast, including Dawn French, Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin and Nigel Havers. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Mariah Carey’s all I want for Christmas is you Tour at the O2 – 11th December 2018
Join record-breaking performer Mariah Carey for a musical celebration of Christmas. The superstar singer entertains audiences with a collection of festive favourites, including All I Want for Christmas is You. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Circus 1903 at the Royal Festival Hall – from 19th December to 5th January 2019
Fresh from the Paris Theatre in Las Vegas, Circus 1903 visits Southbank Centre for its European premiere. The show includes sensational life-sized elephants stunningly created by puppeteers from War Horse, putting elephants back in the ring as never before. The circus boasts a huge cast of jaw-dropping and dangerous acts from all corners of the globe. Featuring acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, trapeze and high-wire performers and more, this show captivates and transports audiences of all ages to the golden age of circus. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular at SSE Arena Wembley – from 27th to 30th December 2018
After a worldwide tour seen by over 7 million people in 206 cities, the stunning theatrical event Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular is back!Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus rex. Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes. It’s a dazzling £10,000,000 arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality set to captivate young and old alike. Marvel at the story of their 200 million year domination of life on earth. Watch them walk. Hear the roar. Be there as they fight for survival and supremacy. From the ripple of their skin to the glint in their eye, you will know the dinosaurs really have returned. Book your tickets here: website.
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 6th January 2019
The Snowman, tells the story of a boy and his magical snowman’s wintery wonderland adventure. As a friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied journey to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, Ice Princess, Father Christmas and escape the clutches of Jack Frost. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2018
Hear Big Ben’s famous “bongs” ring out at midnight on New Year’s Eve in London, followed by the UK’s largest annual fireworks display over the Coca-Cola London Eye, presented by the Mayor of London. If you want to join in the celebrations on the night, you must have a ticket to attend. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK – until 6th January 2019
Skate in a magical winter haven in the heart of the city at the Natural History Museum’s open-air ice rink. The spectacular rink is surrounded by thousands of fairy lights and features a glittering 30ft (9m) Christmas tree. Book your skate session online to guarantee your place or buy your tickets from the box office when you arrive. Remember, you may have to wait for your turn on the ice if you haven’t booked your session in advance, especially during peak times. Visit the museum’s Café Bar for winter warmers, and watch the skaters glide on the ice from the cafe’s balcony. Non-skaters are welcome. Visit the official website for more information.
