See what London has to offer this Christmas with a fantastic range of fun-filled festive activities to enjoy with your loved ones. Indulge in the City's beauty and explore the magical sights.
Explore Kew Gardens' illuminated trail by night
Enjoy a glass of mulled wine whilst travelling through the spectacular Kew Gardens, following the illuminated trail. From November 28th and for the first time ever, Kew Gardens will be open past dark, making the experience even more magical. The beautiful light instillation brings the gardens to life making it a truley captivating, alternative Christmas lights show. Visitors are welcomed by a Christmas village at the start of the trail with plenty of festive treats to get you in the Christmas spirit – from mulled wine to local arts and crafts.
Indulge at the Christmas Chocolate Festival
Christmas has come early for all you chocoholics. From 13th to 15th of December, a yummy Chocolate Festival will be arriving at the Southbank Centre. With endless stalls stacked with chocolatey goodies, from brownies to cakes and churros, a great place to stock up on Christmas gifts. Star choclatiers will also be demonstrating their skills in a series of masterclasses.
Visit the secret St. Christopher’s Place
Tucked away down a side street just a stone’s throw from Bond Street, (the best way to find this coveted shopping hotspot is to find the purple clock). St Christophers Place offers a secret escape from the madness of Oxford Street. It is is a truly charming courtyard, decked with twinkling lights and full of designer shops such as Mulberry. The perfect place to indulge in a luxury shopping spree or relax and enjoy some delicious refreshments.
Join in The Great Christmas Pudding Race
If you’re feeling fun and up for a good old laugh, then don’t miss the 33rd Great Christmas Pudding Race. Once a year, the London folks dig out their best, festive fancy dress and take to the streets, in aid of Cancer Research UK. This bizarre, yet extremely fun event will be taking place on December 7th 2013 at 11am, in Covent Garden. Make a difference and get involved!
Enjoy a Victorian Christmas at The Dickens Museum
If you fancy something a bit different then why not take a trip to the Charles Dickens Museuem. Home to Charles Dickens in the 1800s, Number 48 Doughty Street is filled with family history and some of Dickens’ most famous novels were written here including Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nickleby. On 24th, 25th and 26th December the Museum will be serving steaming mulled cider and traditional mince pies, with film screenings and lively readings from Dickens’ Christmas stories. A truely unforgettable experience.
See London’s Christmas lights from the water
Hop on board one of Bateaux London’s stunning boats for a romantic cruise down the Thames. Enjoy the peaceful waters whilst watching the city's stunning Christmas lights. Fill up on a delicious dinner of modern British cuisine, and listen to a popular resident band perform.
Tour London’s most spectacular Christmas Lights by Horse-drawn Carriage
Be a princess for the day and ride on a romantic horse-drawn carriage around London at nightfall to soak up the sights, smells and sounds of the capital city at Christmas in true London style.
Ice skate at charming Somerset House
Somerset Houses’ glistening ice rink returns again by popular demand. Undoubtedly one of the most romantic things to do this Christmas is to go ice skating at Somerset House, decorated inside with a huge, sparkling Christmas tree. Visit the rink on a Glad Tidings Tuesday for the most festive fun – there will be a traditional Christmas Arcade for some late night shopping, tasty Yuletide treats and music to enjoy whilst you skate around the rink. Perfect family fun or to enjoy with your loved one.
Buy some truly unique Christmas gifts from Burlington Arcade
Treat your loved ones to a special Christmas present this year. Take a visit to the iconic Burlington Arcade in Mayfair, the longest covered shopping street in Britain. it is the perfect escape from the wintery weather, with shops filled with plenty of unique gifts to suit everyone, from the finest cashmere to vintage watches.
Watch a glittering performance of The Nutcracker
The magical tale of The Nutcracker has returned to London just in time for Christmas. Performed by The English National Ballet beautifully telling the tale of a young girl and her Christmas present, a Nutcracker, which magically comes to life as the clock strikes midnight. It is classic festive fun for all the family, with stunning costumes and set to match.
You can enjoy all of this festive fun whilst staying at the five star Milestone Hotel. You even get your very own Christmas tree in your suite! They offer a 'Milestone Christmas Extravaganza package' to ensure you have a Christmas to remember. The ultimate VIP package takes you on an open-top horse and carriage ride across Hyde Park to see London’s glistening Christmas lights, before doing your last minute Christmas shopping in a chauffeur driven Bentley. Spend your evening at a show of your choice, then return to the hotel to a festive turndown treat - a gold and diamond necklace! Enjoy a private capsule on the London Eye with a bottle of champagne, and awake on Christmas morning to a stocking full of treats!
For more information visit: www.MilestoneHotel.com
Jessie O'Callaghan-FemaleFirst