Published: 16 December 2022
(James Davies via Unsplash)
The atmosphere in London is simply magnificent this time of year. Lights, decorations, people in high spirits, and even the occasional flurry of snow, the English capital is one of the best places to be during the Christmas period.
Yes, we know it’s cold outside and there are a lot of Christmas movies on Netflix to binge, but London is giving you plenty of reasons to get out from under your blanket. From unique Christmas markets to ice skating, we've put together a little guide on how to spend a Christmassy day in London. Read on for some of the best things to see and do in London this December.
Meander around London’s popular Christmas markets
Start your day by visiting Leicester Square’s Christmas market, located only a three-minute walk from Leicester Square Station and five minutes from Piccadilly Circus. At this Christmas market, you’ll find a few things that you wouldn’t come across at a more traditional market, including cabaret, variety acts, dance, physical theatre and circus shows. Definitely one to check out if you want a less traditional Christmas experience.
If you’re looking for a popular Christmas market on a much larger scale, check out Winter Wonderland. You can find all kinds of food, heaps of fun activities and games, and small stalls selling handmade decorations and more. Perfect for students as it won’t burn a hole in your pocket, while also being family-friendly, Winter Wonderland is one of London’s most iconic Christmas events and a must-add to your holiday itinerary.
See some of London’s amazing Christmas lights
Every year from late November, the streets of London get lit up with festive lights and that’s when you know Christmas is just around the corner. The first places you need to visit to see some spectacular illuminations are Oxford Street and Bond Street, where you can also do a spot of Christmas shopping – a nice way of killing two birds with one very Christmassy stone.
Next we have Mayfair and Belgravia. This side of London is stunning all year round, but during Christmas, they really make an extra effort, with the dazzling displays of lights and decorations. We also recommend you visit the iconic South Molton Street, known for its blue arrow-shaped lights.
Go to a London ice rink
One of London’s biggest ice rinks is the 1,200 square metre one at Canary Wharf. It is located only a 12-minute walk from the University of Sunderland in London campus, so you can get your skates on right after class. The Canary Wharf ice rink is open until February 25, 2023, so don’t worry if you can’t make it before the Christmas holidays. If you get tired of skating, you can take a break and have a drink in their Alpine-themed bar.
The recently reopened Battersea Power Station is home to the city’s newest ice rink and it is really a work of art. With a rink-side bar and a Christmas tree in the centre, they really take the experience to the next level with live music and DJs playing while you skate.
If you want to skate all year round, Alexandra Palace ice rink is the one for you. An indoor facility, here you can also find skating sessions/classes, ice hockey training and children’s sessions.
Sip on mulled wine
If you’re in the market for a drink, nothing says Christmas like a hot mug of mulled wine. We recommend the Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch which, in our opinion, is one of the cosiest bars in London. Mulled wine over an open fire and décor giving apres-ski vibes? Sounds perfect.
Next, we have the Holly Bush, a country-themed pub in Hampstead with a classic wooden interior and an open fireplace that will give you a real English Christmassy feel.
The County Arms’ winter pop-up on the other hand will make you feel like you are in the Alps. A cushy venue in Wandsworth with fireplaces and a traditional pub interior, it is also ideal for those of us that are on a budget, as they offer a free Guinness if you order a meal. Not too shabby.
Whether you’re from England or an international student experiencing an English Christmas for the first time, London is a wonderful place to be in during the holiday season. Share your Christmas photos with us if you visit any of the places we’ve listed by using the hashtag #WeAreSunLon
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