Incredible Things to Do in London: After ChristmasBy Rishma Dosani
Forget the winter blues, here’s 5 things you need to do after the Christmas slump to get back into the London spirit:
1. Get a Cultural Fix at the Southbank
What: So it’s winter. There is absolutely no getting away from it so instead, embrace. Celebrate all things wintery at the ‘Winter Art Exhibition’, curated by the lovely Aussie artist Amanda Parer. It’s an incredibly pretty, purely breathtaking display that captures everything we love about this time of year, minus the cold, and makes it that bit more beautiful.
Where: London’s famous South Bank is home to the display, so head over as soon as you’re free. We know how packed the area is this time of year, but trust us, it’s worth the hassle.
When: The event is up and running over the Christmas and New Year period, but beat the rush and see it first! It’s free to view, but on a first-come first-served basis so go early to avoid disappointment!
2. Keep up the Christmas Theme
What: Okay, Christmas day is over. But that doesn’t mean the festive fun needs to be! At Kew, it never has to end (well for the time-being). The famous gardens take on the most ethereal charm, with a trail around the area complete with sparkling snowflakes. There are giant sculptures, music and festive treats to keep the Christmas theme up.
Where: Wrap up warm and enjoy the festivities with Kew. Get yourself down to Brentford Gate, Richmond, TW9 3AB.
When: It’s Christmas at Kew for a few more days, so head over to the gardens between 7pm and 8:35pm. Tickets are £15 and available at the door.
3. Discover the Fantastic Winterville
What: If Winter Wonderland isn’t up your street, or you’ve been every single year since it opened, we’ve uncovered another gem for you. Winterville. It’s the ‘alternative’ Christmas experience, and it takes the festivities back to basics – basing the fun on the Christmas markets all over Europe. Expect an independent, intimate and creative little village, covered in Christmassy bits. In London. Christmas might be over, but the fun doesn’t have to be!
Where: If you want to keep the magic of the holidays alive, head to Victoria Park, Grove Road E3 5TB. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
When: So, it’s free entry, free entertainment, truly magical AND it’s on until Friday, January 2nd. This weekend would be the best time to go, after all the crazy Christmas-ness has died down. It’ll be perfect.
4. Go to a New Ice Rink
Where: We’re sticking with the Christmas theme this week, because it’s all there is to do in the world and we LOVE it. We know you’ve probably all been to every ice rink possible, dropped mulled wine while bashing into little kids and just not had a fun time. But. Have you been to the Canary Wharf ice rink yet? It’s a tiny little secret one, surrounded by beautiful trees, fairy lights and just all round prettiness. It’s our favourite one in London, and now it should be yours too.
Where: If you’ve not heard of this yet, it’s hidden in Canada Square Park, nestled among the huge skyscrapers and is an amazing little gem. Get to Canary Wharf, E14 5AB for some post-Christmas icy fun.
When: The rink is open until after the New Year, but head down in the ‘quiet’ time between Christmas and New Year to keep the magic alive. Tickets are £14 for an hour-long session, and there’s also winter cocktails, craft beer and a BBQ to keep you warm. You’re going to love it.
