As the colder weather rolls in, the desire to go out and explore London during the evenings and weekends becomes a lot less appealing. Sitting by a burning log fire with a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows seems like the more enjoyable option, right? Well you may think so, but i’m sharing 12 things you can do in London this autumn and winter that will make you want to wrap up warm and head out to explore.
1. Visit the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge
One of my favourite things about the autumn and winter season is the pop-up of the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge on the Southbank. I’ve gone religiously every year it has been around and i’m so excited to go again this year. Nothing says festive like a nice warm mulled cider, overlooking the London eye.
2. Festive Afternoon Tea in Central London
If you want to treat someone special to a festive afternoon tea, there are so many smashing themed ones at the moment. I went to the one at the Langham before but I think the top picks this year would be the Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Ritz and Hotel Cafe Royal’s Diptyque Festive Afternoon Tea.
3. Explore Winter Wonderland
Another of my seasonal favourites is Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Getting together with your closest friends, sipping on mulled wine whilst grabbing a bratwurst amongst the festive tunes and brightly lit rides. It always makes me feel all warm and fuzzy!
4. A crisp walk through Regents Park
Autumn always brings about the apricot coloured crunchy leaves and the crisp fresh air. I think there is no better way than spending a weekend morning going out for a early morning breakfast followed by a lovely walk through Regents Park (and maybe a little bit of fun with the leaves).
5. Festive Westend theatre show
If theatres shows are your kind of thing, dropping into your favourite Disney theatre show is always a good idea. I still have a lot of love for The Lion King, but I recently saw Aladdin and it was fantastic. However, if Disney isn’t your thing but are looking for something a little more festive, Alice in Winterland or A Christmas Carol are good options.
6. Christmas Markets on the Southbank
Strolling along the Southbank, you will come across the wonderful Christmas markets selling lots of festive goodies. Pick up a couple of gingerbread men and a hot chocolate, before finishing off with a romantic walk with your loved one.
7. Ice-Skating At Somerset House & Natural History Museum
It’s time to dust off your skates and get back out onto the ice rinks. Two of my favourite ice rinks are back in action this year at Somerset House and at The National History Museum.
8. Kew Gardens by night
We all know how beautiful Kew Gardens is during the day time, but what about after hours? Make the most of the early evenings and spend time exploring the gorgeous lit up Kew Gardens and the illumination show they have on offer. Makes for a perfect family outing.
9. Winterville on Clapham Common
Winterville isn’t like Winter Wonderland at all, instead it gives you the festive feels with lots of actives. Enjoy the Backyard Cinema, Plonk golf, ice-rink, roller disco and all extensive street food stalls at Winterville in Clapham Common.
10. Christmas shopping on Oxford Street
For those that leave all their Christmas shopping to the last minute, you can find everything you could possibly need to make someone’s Christmas extra special this year. From unique stores like Tiger to luxury department stores like Selfridges, Christmas shopping is sorted.
11. Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, visiting The Warner Bros Harry Potter studios is a fantastic day out, especially as everything becomes festive and wintery at Hogwarts.
12. Dinner in an igloo at Coppa Club
If you’re a bit more of a foodie, then why don’t dine in an igloo whilst looking out over the River Thames? The Coppa Club Tower Bridge igloos are complete with fur covered chairs, blankets and fairy lights. What a treat!
There is something more exciting to do this season than sitting on the sofa after all. So, what are you waiting for? Go explore London!
Until next time…
