Winter Wandering in London

There is something magical about winter in London. The streets are covered with gold leaves and if you look up towards the sky you will be greeted by a sea of Christmas lights before your eyes reach the clouds. It may be cold, the days are shorter and London is busier than ever but it’s my favourite time of year and I wouldn’t change Christmas in London, because it’s perfect.

Since the mid-2000s, my parents and I have come to London over the festive period to see the winter magic. I usually avoid the West End due to the army of tourists that come and join us over the festive period, but when Christmas is on its way I can’t help but find myself tapping my Oyster in and out of zone 1 in central London.

The older I get, the less concerned I am with presents and the more I become involved with winter activities. London comes alive during the winter and I trade lazy weekends for days out discovering the city and creating memories with loved ones.

Winter Wonderland is my ideal playground. It’s the perfect mix of rides, mulled wine, burger stands and ice sculptures. You will see more adults than children too, so don’t think you’re too old for Winter Wonderland! My other half and I have had many dates here and they will probably continue until we are too old to brave the cold.

The Somerset House Ice Rink is always high on my ‘to visit’ list during the winter. Ice skating is one of those activities that I never tire of. Everything looks more beautiful when you’re on ice and an hour on the Ice Rink is all you need to get in the Christmas spirit.

Covent Garden from the food, to the street performers and the giant Christmas Tree. You can spend hours wandering round the streets of Covent Garden and every year you will still find something new to see and do.

Hip Hop Brunch is the newest addition to the Christmas list. It’s not really Christmassy but ’tis the season to be jolly! I discovered it in early November and I think it should be added to every seasons “to do” list. Saturday’s filled with laughter, singing along to hip hop songs and eating food until your heart is content is how every Saturday should look, even after the festive period has passed.

Kew Gardens night time light trail is one thing that I haven’t quite got round to doing…yet! I have heard so much about Kew Gardens and after seeing pictures of the light trail, it will be the first Christmas activity that I do this year. Armed with a hot chocolate, woolly scarf and gloves, this is the perfect way to spend a cold winter evening with your friends, a loved one or yourself.

What are your favourite things to do in London during the festive period?