Native Places

Native Aparthotels & Apartments In London

Blog

10 Must-Visit Winter Attractions in London for Serviced Apartment Guests

Can’t-Miss Things To Do In London In Winter

London dazzles year-round, but the winter months bring a special kind of magic to England’s capital. As soon as December (well November actually!) hits, London transforms into a festive winter wonderland filled with Christmas cheer, stunning festive lights, incredible entertainment and seasonal attractions.

Those staying in serviced apartments in London have prime access to the best winter offerings right on their doorstep…

Winter Activities For Kids & Families

While London entices all ages, these interactive attractions offer ample entertainment for kids and families visiting London in the winter months:

  • Natural History Museum Ice Rink
    This rink hosts “penguin skate aids” to help little ones learn to skate on the ice with fun penguin-themed aids to glide effortlessly across the ice.
  • Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
    Kids adore the carnival rides, circus shows, ice skating, and Santa visits at London’s epic Winter Wonderland attraction in winter. Tots can even meet the magical reindeer!

As December descends, London begins to sparkle with festive cheer infused into its bustling streets, world-famous landmarks, and wealth of attractions and events.

Looking for the very best things to do in London in winter? Here are 10 quintessential winter activities visitors should make time for:

  1. Browse festive holiday markets all over the capital
  2. Marvel at dazzling light displays on Regents Street, Carnaby Street and beyond…
  3. Glide across an outdoor ice rink
  4. Check out a Christmas theatre show like Elf The Musical
  5. Sing along on a carolling pub crawl
  6. Toast the season at a pop-up Christmas bar on the Southbank
  7. Indulge in hearty British holiday dishes at the oldest of pubs
  8. Try fun outdoor winter sports
  9. Find one-of-a-kind gifts from local makers
  10. Capture the magic however you can!

Those looking for things to do in London in winter absolutely should embrace the season by bundling up to discover this world-class city’s twinkling markets and light displays, spirited entertainment, seasonal food and drink, and quintessential wintertime vibes.

And remember to wrap up warm!

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

 

Serviced Apartments in London: The Perfect Base for Winter Exploration

Why London Winters Can’t Be Matched

With millions exploring last December alone, London’s iconic sights like the Thames and royal parks sparkle uniquely for the winter season in this storied city stuffed with yuletide secrets waiting to be unveiled.

Only in London: Experiences Other Global Cities Can’t Touch

Nowhere else can truly transport you through the magic of an old world English holiday like London. Its winter-specific offerings simply can’t be matched:

  • Majestic Christmas light displays synchronised to Winter Wonderland soundtracks in Hyde Park
  • Annual pantomime theatre productions of Cinderella or Aladdin told with eccentric British charm
  • Museum exhibits allowing you to glimpse original 19th century Christmas cards first created in London shops

Delve into Hidden Histories of London Winters Past

This season uncover fascinating glimpses into London’s past not found during the rest of the year:

  • Frosty Fairs have been occurring for centuries on the frozen Thames, complete with pop-up shops and taverns
  • The exact River Fleet spot where young Charles Dickens observed street urchins feasting on a sumptuous Christmas feast, inspiring A Christmas Carol
  • Shopfronts still bearing old German ironwork from displaced metalcrafters who fled the Nazis and revived London’s holiday decor scene

Through a Local’s Eyes: Winter Traditions Through the Generations

Third-generation Londoners share time-honoured sights, sounds, and memories unique to seasoned residents celebrating generations of traditions among family and neighbours through the decades:

  • Cooking mince pies using great grandmother’s recipe going back over a century
  • Visiting the original Victorian toy shop Father Christmas discovered and made his first stop in England
  • Stringing crisp red apples and cinnamon sticks on evergreen garlands to welcome friends stopping by for hot cider

Serviced Apartments – Your Home Away from Home This Winter

Skip cramped hotel rooms this winter for the comforts and conveniences only serviced apartments in London provide:

  • Host friends and family for home-cooked holiday meals in your own kitchen and dining areas
  • Luxuriate by the fireplace in extra living space unheard of in hotels
  • Come and go on your own schedule – curfews, meal times and check-in hassles don’t exist
  • Store your winter shopping finds, gifts, souvenirs and outfits during your extended multi-night winter stay

Purpose-built for longer winter breaks, your London serviced apartment becomes your private winter retreat. A true home away from home.

Prime Locations Provide Front Row Access to London’s Christmas

Nestled within iconic, central winter destinations in London, serviced apartments deliver front row seasonal experiences:

  • Pad down to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland from nearby rentals
  • Watch ice-skaters twirl at Somerset House from luxury apartments
  • Stroll through festive Covent Garden straight from your serviced apartments front door

With attractions at your doorstep and everything needed to comfortably embrace the magic, serviced apartments allow you to dive headfirst into the one-of-a-kind wonders only a London winter can deliver.

Delve beyond the basics into London winters’ unique character, nostalgic allure, and proud heritage. The history, traditions, and seasonal experiences simply can’t be replicated anywhere else.

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Glasgow After Dark: The Best Places To Visit In The City After The Sun Sets.

Glasgow, a city of culture and character, doesn’t go to sleep when the sun goes down. If you’re a visitor keen to explore the city’s hidden treasures, we have the inside scoop on Glasgow’s go-to spots. From the laughter-filled comedy clubs to the inspirational art workshops, here’s your guide to a different side of the city’s nightlife. 

 

The Stand Comedy Club 

Laughter is the best way to light up the night, and The Stand Comedy Club on Woodlands Road is the place for it. Hosting both seasoned comedians and rising stars, this intimate venue guarantees a night full of fun. 

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To –  333 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow, G3 6NG 

 

The Burrell Collection 

For the artist in you, The Burrell Collection in Pollok Country Park offers late-night art workshops. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, you can explore your artistic side in a serene and inspiring environment. 

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow, G43 1AT 

 

The Britannia Panopticon 

Step back in time at The Britannia Panopticon, one of the world’s oldest surviving music hall venues. This atmospheric place in Trongate is perfect for catching live music and comedy shows. 

Interested? – Find Out More.

Stomp To – 113-117 Trongate, Glasgow, Scotland, G1 5HD 

 

Dockyard Social 

Located in a converted West End industrial warehouse, Dockyard Social hosts a variety of DJs, themed bars and street food vendors from around the world. This venue is perfect for indecisive visitors who want to try a bit of everything. 

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – 95-107, Haugh Road, Glasgow, G3 8TX 

 

Glasgow School of Art exhibitions 

The Glasgow School of Art frequently hosts late-night art exhibitions. This provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in contemporary art and culture well into the evening. 

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – The Glasgow School of Art, 167 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G3 6RQ 

 

Whether you’re in stitches at a comedy club or exploring your artistic side at a workshop, there’s no shortage of captivating experiences to discover in Glasgow. As the city’s lights begin to dwindle, venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Glasgow’s diverse nightlife.   

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

London After Dark: The Best Places To Visit In The City After The Sun Sets.

As the sun dips below the London skyline, the city transforms into a realm of endless possibilities. Here’s your passport to a different side of the city’s nightlife. 

 

The Comedy Store: The Comedy Store on Oxendon Street is the holy grail for comedy enthusiasts. This centrally located venue hosts world-class stand-up acts that’ll have you in stitches. The atmosphere is electric, and the laughter is infectious.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – 1a Oxendon Street, London, SW1Y 4EE 

 

Leake Street Arches: If you’re staying at Native Bankside, take a short walk to Leake Street Arches. These are eight former railway arches that adjoin London’s longest legal graffiti wall and have been brought back to life with a collection of restaurants, bars and entertainment spaces focused on celebrating urban culture.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – Leake St, London SE1 8SW 

 

Mercato Metropolitano: Near Native Mayfair, Mercato Metropolitano is a converted church that is home to a collection of sustainable, authentic food, offering two floors of worldwide cuisine. Mercato Metropolitano brings diverse food practices and ingredients from different countries and cultures into urban spaces. The building hosts a rooftop terrace, wine cellar, German craft brewery and community hub, and its historic architecture makes it a one-of-a-kind attraction to visit.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – St Mark’s, North Audley Street, London, W1K 6ZA   

 

Leadenhall Market: A stone’s throw away from Native King’s Wardrobe, Leadenhall Market is a vibrant and charming marketplace with a distinctive blend of boutiques, shops, restaurants, and bars. Dating back to the 14th century, its stunning architecture and unique selection of establishments make it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique experience in a historical setting.

Interested? – Find Out More. 

Stomp To – Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 1LT 

 

The Cheese Bar: Near Native Hyde Park, The Cheese Bar is a cosy restaurant on a canal boat offering rooftop seating and an entirely cheese-based menu. All dishes are freshly made and accompanied by a range of natural wines, local craft beer, spirits and cocktails.

Interested? – Find Out More.

Stomp To – Paddington Basin, Sheldon Square, London, W2 6DL

 

There are many things to get up to in London after sunset. Whether you’re giggling at a comedy club, strolling around a market or dining on a canal boat, the city of London has an abundance of things to get up to.  

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Manchester After Dark: The Best Places To Visit In The City After The Sun Sets.

When the sun sets in Manchester, the city awakens in a different light, and the options for a memorable night out extend far beyond the nightclub scene of Canal Street or boujee bars in Deansgate. If you’re a visitor eager to dive into Manchester’s unique after-dark experiences, we’ve got you covered.

 

Ducie Street Warehouse

Set in the very heart of the city, Ducie Street Warehouse is Manchester’s social hub. Whether you’re unwinding with a coffee in the lounge, dining in the restaurant, expressing your artistic side at a workshop or losing yourself in a film at Mini Cini, Ducie Street Warehouse has something for everyone. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://duciestreet.com/) 

Stomp To – Ducie Street, Manchester, M1 2TP

 

The Frog and Bucket

The Frog and Bucket in the Northern Quarter offers a fantastic lineup of both established and a diverse collective of up-and-coming comedians. Prepare for a night of hearty laughter, hilarious stories and memorable one-liners 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://frogandbucket.com) 

Stomp To – 102 Oldham St, Manchester, M4 1LJ 

 

The Lowry

For creative souls, The Lowry in Salford Quays is a haven for culture and creativity. Beyond its world-class exhibitions, The Lowry often hosts late-night art events and workshops, allowing you to explore your artistic side long after the sun has set. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://thelowry.com/whats-on) 

Stomp To – Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ 

 

Matt & Phreds

If you’re a fan of jazz and live music, Matt & Phreds is a jazz club that can’t be missed. The intimate setting and soulful tunes create an inviting atmosphere that’s our go to for a relaxing evening. 

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://mattandphreds.com/) 

Stomp To – 64 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LW 

 

Contact Theatre

Step into the heart of Manchester’s vibrant cultural scene at Contact Theatre, where traditional theatre meets contemporary arts. Enjoy a dynamic and diverse range of artistic experiences, including theatre productions, dance performances, live music, film screenings, and workshops.  

Interested? – Find Out More. (link – https://contactmcr.com/) 

Stomp To – Oxford Rd, Manchester M15 6JA 

 

Manchester’s after-dark scene is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, as the night falls, explore these extraordinary venues where there’s no shortage of unique experiences to savour.  

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Experience the Best of the Manchester Christmas Markets 2023 from your aparthotel

Manchester’s bustling and vibrant Christmas markets have been a beloved festive tradition since 1999. As one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe with over 300 stalls spanning 10 different city centre locations, it promises festive fun, seasonal delights, and Christmas magic for visitors and locals alike.

Overview of the Manchester Christmas Markets

Dating back to the Middle Ages, outdoor Christmas markets bring light and excitement to dark winter months across Germany, Austria, and other European countries and Manchester imports this festive tradition every November and December.

The 2023 Manchester Christmas markets will run from November 10 to December 22 this year. And its six week run is set to see foot traffic of over 350,000 people browsing the myriad of market stalls.

What’s new for the Manchester Christmas markets 2023? An expanded circus hub at Piccadilly Gardens with street performances and aerialist acts throughout the six week run.

What sets Manchester’s markets apart from other major European cities? Its size, variety and convenient neighbourhood layout across the city centre. Markets in Frankfurt focus on more traditional gifts while Manchester offers more modern and eclectic options, which is what you’d expect from this cultural city.

2023 Christmas Market Dates
November 10 to December 22
Expected 2023 Visitors
Over 950,000

Getting to the 2023 Christmas Markets from your Aparthotel

Staying at an aparthotel in central Manchester allows ultimate convenience for exploring the sprawling Christmas markets on foot.
Use the 2023 Christmas markets map to navigate to the different marked zones from your accommodation:

Walking Routes
Our aparthotel accommodations sit within a 5 minute walk of the nearest Christmas market zone but there are so many, we suggest you bring comfy shoes!

Public Transportation
Manchester’s MetroLink offers a quick tram route to each market area when walking fatigue sets in. Single ride passes are available.

Top Things to See, Eat and Do

Beyond shopping, what awaits you at Manchester’s bustling Christmas markets?

Festive Stalls
Over 300 stalls span 10 neighbourhood market zones offering crafts, gifts, decorations, food, drinks and more. Peak Market hosts an International Christmas Market.

Mulled Wine & Eats
Warm up with hot mulled wine and local Manchester gin while perusing goods. Food stalls offer mince pies, loaded bratwursts, waffles, chocolate strawberries and more.

Special 2023 Events & Activities

In addition to the lively market browsing, special events mark the 2023 calendar at Manchester’s Christmas markets.

Circus Hub at Piccadilly Gardens

  • Nightly circus performers
  • Roving acts and street performers
  • Learn circus skills workshops

Gospel Choir Concerts

  • Nightly gospel choir concerts
  • Festive singalongs

Project Earth Interactive Exhibit

  • 35-metre wide inflatable globe
  • Interactive sustainability exhibits inside
  • STEM workshops for kids

What’s stopping you?

Manchester’s vibrant Christmas markets offer the perfect launchpad for a magical city break this festive season. From the twinkling lights to seasonal sounds, scents and flavours, a cosy aparthotel situated nearby allows you to easily immerse yourself in the festivities by day, then escape the crowds at night.

As you explore interactive exhibits and circus shows new for 2023, savour local food and drinks, hunt for rare artisan gifts, and skate under the stars, creating memories that keep you glowing all winter – long after the markets close up on December 22nd.

Book your room or apartment suite today to experience the very best of one of Europe’s top Christmas destinations from the comforts and charms of your own Manchester home base. The most wonderful time of the year awaits…will you be part of it?

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.