By Katrina Deisler
I’ve loved living in London the past three months, and I’m so excited that I get to be here to see the city lit up for Christmas. Christmas is my favourite time of year, and here in London there are always so many fun things to do! Here are some fun suggestions to keep you busy this season.
1. Snuggle up on some cozy winter terraces. Even if you don’t love the cold weather, there is something endearing about cozying up outdoors (with a nice cocktail, of course). Some of our favourites include the Winter Garden at La Pont de la Tour where you can snuggle up with fluffy sheep skins and enjoy Belvedere cocktails and snacks like truffle cheese fondue. If alfresco dining above the city is what you’re after, head to the terrace at Big Easy Canary Wharf. Their winter menu features plenty of tipples to keep your warm, like mulled cider, boozy hot chocolate, and toddies like their signature Big Easy Buttered Rum. I also love the warm marmalade cocktail at Cantina del Ponte.
2. Explore a carnival. Everyone knows about Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, but that doesn’t make it any less fun. Winter Wonderland is part Christmas market, and part carnival. Delicous treats, both sweet and savoury, abound. If you’re adventurous, hop on some of the rides that light up the sky with festive colours. I wasn’t brave enough to conquer my fear of heights, but still had a blast trying all the food and drink the festival had to offer (Nutella pretzel, anyone?).
3. Go ice skating. What better way to get in the Christmas spirit than ice skating? If your’e anything like me, balance is a challenge. But even if you fall, you’ll still enjoy the festive music and good cheer of your fellow skaters. Head to Winter Wonderland, the Natural History Museum, or Canada Square Park. Be sure to bring some friends or a date with you to catch you when you fall!
4. Look at the lights. There are spectacular lights are everywhere in London, that’s no secret. My favourites (and the one’s I’m lucky enough to see every day) are on Regent Street. Other lovelies are in Carnaby, and there are some stunning lights powered from restaurant oils on the Strand.
5. Take your workout to the streets. Trying to keep up with your fitness goals? Grab some friends and escape the gym for a night with the Yule Jog. Choose either a 6km or 12km guided run through London. Your tour guide will blast Christmas carols and take you round some areas with lovely Christmas lights.
6. Mix up some tipples. Check out the Christmas Gin Masterclass Mashup at East London Liquor Company and try your hand at making your own gin cocktails. We love London Cocktail Club all year round, but Christmas is the perfect time to try out their cocktail masterclass.
No matter how you celebrate, we’re wishing you a merry and bright Christmas season, and the happiest of New Years.