Looking for fun things to do this Christmas? Here’s a few of our picks….
Wishmas: A Fantastical Christmas, Old Bauble Factory: this new immersive experience from the team behind Secret Cinema and suitable for the whole family. During the 60 minute experience, you will meet a variety of festive characters in a variety of magical rooms as you embark on a Christmas adventure. It is open from the 14th November until the 7th January.
Hogwarts in the Snow, Warner Bros. Studio Tour: returning from the 11th November, this annual and popular feature will get visitors into the festive spirit. See all the sets from the film series all decorated ready for Christmas. From the Great Hall which is decorated with plenty of Christmas trees and the fireplaces covered in holly, mistletoe, and wreaths. The experience will also see visitors being able to learn the dance steps meticulously studied by Neville Longbottom ahead of the Yule Ball in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, while the Forbidden Forest will be covered in snow and you can discover how a never melting snow was created by the set decorators for the film series.
Christmas at Kew: be dazzled by colourful lighting in the beautiful surroundings of Kew this Christmas from the 15th November until the 7th January 2024. As well as glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour, there are street vendors along the route featuring a tasty festive delights, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate. There is limited capacity with timed entry to Christmas at Kew so make sure that you plan your visit in advance.
Kingdom of Winter, London ExCel: taking place from the 8th December until 7th January, this indoor festive experience for the whole family includes ice skating and ice expedition tour, circus, a fairground, shopping and plenty of places to eat. Open from 10am to 8pm, with last ticket entry 6/6.30pm. Tickets are from £5.50 per person, no booking fees.
Ice skating at Somerset House: a firm part of the London’s festive season, ice skating at Somerset House is a fun activity for the whole family. Alongside, the skating itself there is contemporary music and tasty food and drink. Other events skating lessons with Skate School and Chilled Out sessions, trailblazing DJs on the rink-side decks, specially curated sessions inspired by the Swiss regions of Bern, Lucerne and Valais, rink-side view at Skate Lounge by Whispering Angel, where you can enjoy a glass of Provence Rosé and a pop up store, Shelter Boutique, stocking a handpicked selection of pre-loved vintage, designer and high-street clothing and gifts.
Visit the Southbank Winter Festival: shows, music, Christmas market and exhibitions all form part of the Southbank’s Winter Festival which continues to entertain visitors until the 7th January 2024. Shows include: Bluey’s Big Play , Nutcracker at the Tuff Nutt Club and the variety show Christmas Actually curated by writer and director Richard Curtis. There is also a free outdoor Winter Light exhibition, an open invitation to to join the free choirs and concerts including winter classics at Fab-YULE-ous Voices, and Southbank Centre Youth Voices Winter Showcase. There is plenty for the whole family to enjoy!