London winters are known for the cold and damp but are also renowned for festive frivolity, more events than you can attend, and sites to see galore that are open even in the frosty times of the year. So when you’re planning a trip to London or looking for something a little different that has excellent views and sights to see, why not get out and try a few of our ideas below?
Festivities
Winter truly is full of festivals and attractions at this time of year, especially pre-christmas when the festive fun is in full swing. London has something for every taste, from markets, fairs, festivals, and art shows. We’ve listed a few of our favourites below to get you started with planning your Christmas-time and Winterfest adventures.
Canopy Christmas Market is a longtime staple and longtime favourite winter festival in London. Get along to one of the many great events going on inside, including the Vegan Festival, a heap of festive workshops, and gifting opportunities.
Hyde Park transforms annually into a magical world of rides and stalls, even featuring an ice rink at the Winter Wonderland Festival. So be sure to come prepared to eat, drink and be merry as you get into the Christmas and New Year spirit, as the 2022 edition kicks on until 3rd January!
Southbank Centre Winter Festival
Set in the famous Southbank area on the Thames, enjoy sparkling lights, delicious drinks, more street food than you can eat in one evening, and a bunch of seasonal goodies outside. Indoors and outdoors, there will also be events and entertainment to keep adults and children of all ages occupied.
Get Close to Nature
There are many beautiful outdoor spaces and parks to explore in London that take on a unique seasonal magnificence in the colder months. They are certainly not to be overlooked, but be sure to wrap up warm! We’ve added a few of our favourites below that will have you ready to get out in the cold.
The heath includes 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows in north London, which look even more spectacular when winter brings a little snow. Take a wander up Parliament Hill for great views.
Find some peace in the city centre. A wintery stroll around Kensington Gardens is a stunner. Think open green spaces, woodlands, and pretty spots to see, including the Albert Memorial, the Serpentine, and the Palace.
Follow the popular light trail, Christmas at Kew, while exploring 300 acres of wintery parkland. Then, warm up in the arboretum or the tropical Palm Greenhouse when you get too chilly.
Accommodation Above It All
When you want somewhere warm and cosy, with all the perks of home, while also including all the luxury of a boutique hotel, book at one of several London Native locations. We have Apart-Hotel accommodation in Hyde Park, Bankside, and Mayfair. For more details, take a look at the Native website.
