London is one of the greatest cities in the world. But how can you enjoy the best of what the capital has to offer as it celebrates the biggest event of the year, Christmas?

We take a look at five of the must see festive attractions in London this December.

1. Winter Wonderland

 

If you haven’t heard of the capital’s biggest Christmas attraction, where have you been. Winter Wonderland is an annual event hosted at London’s Hyde Park between mid November and early January and attracts bumper crowds to its unique mix of German market stalls, mouthwatering food and drink as well as high octane rides. It is a must see Christmas attraction and cannot be missed by any London resident. The event is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year as well, giving you that extra incentive to make the trip  if you needed one. Mo Qadi, 28, a Consultant based in London said: “It’s a place where people can have fun in the winter-time. This is the place to bring your children.” Even X Factor finalists cannot resist their excitement.

2. Ice Skating

There are many pop-up rinks across the capital this December. However the showpiece attractions have to be at two of London’s most loved tourist hot-spots; The Tower of London and the Natural History Museum. Both venues offer ice skating sessions at tremendous rates and are open daily up throughout the Christmas period. Where better to achieve that perfect group selfie?

3. Oxford Circus Christmas Lights

If your planning in popping into Oxford Street for some last minute gift grabbing this December, you’re in for a real treat. Everything from store fronts to trees have been lit up by a dazzling display that is sure to catch the eye of anyone that makes a visit. Your shopping trip will certainly be disturbed as you make a dart for the camera. Aparna Ashok, 19, a tourist in London said: “It’s something you should see at least once in your life. Other cities and countries don’t decorate streets in the way London does”.

4. Cinderella at the London Palladium

A Christmas visit to London would not be complete without enjoying a show in the famous West End. Pantomine is always a Christmas tradition  and this year is no exception. The London Palladium’s offering of Cinderella is by far the most anticipated piece. A star studded cast such as Paul O’Grady, Julian Clary and Amanda Holden take to the stage to tell the ancient tale of the rags to riches fairy tale when the production opens on 10th December. Tickets are available for purchase from the Box Office or online via the website.

5. Christmas Carols at Trafalgar Square

If singing is more your thing, Christmas carol concerts will be found all over the capital this December. The pick of the bunch is by far Trafalgar Square’s nightly service where 40 singing groups representing charities across the country will gather beneath the Christmas Tree between Monday 5th and Thursday 22nd of December. The performances take place from 4-8pm on weekdays, and 2-6pm at weekends. Money raised will go to a different charity every night and these include anything from The Royal London Society for Blind People and The Epilepsy Action London Forum. The event will offer a warm end to the evening while supporting local causes, keeping in the true spirit of Christmas.

Make sure to share this with your friends on Social Media so you can organise a day out to tick some of these off the list.

Luke Chillingsworth