Every year, the UK prepares for the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas. And, every year, London is at the heart of the festivities. 2021 is no different as the capital will play a major role thanks to the incredible Christmas-themed activities on offer. Some are traditional, others add tweaks to classics, and the rest are downright quirky! Regardless, the Big Smoke has something for everyone. If you want to know what’s on leading up to Christmas, keep on reading.

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is the best way to get into the Christmas spirit because it involves all the traditions of Christmas but throws in a few extras for good measure. From festive grottos to yuletide food – there’s even an ice rink – you can soak up everything festive from now until the 3rd of January. However, that’s not all, there are fairground rides, acrobats, ice sculpting workshops, and the Magical Ice Kingdom. Head down to Hyde Park to join in the fun.

Skating at the Natural History Museum

What’s one way to keep warm when the weather turns? The answer is to ice skate. Take that, Mother Nature! At the Natural History Museum, there’s no better backdrop than the magical Waterhouse building that’s adorned with lights and illuminates the rink. It’s such a fan favourite that it’s now a staple of London’s Christmas scene, the UK’s answer to New York if you will. Sadly, it’s the last time the ice rink at the Natural History Museum will be available to the public as it’s being transformed into an urban garden. More reason to buy tickets and sample the incredible atmosphere before it disappears for good!

Christmas at Kew

A Christmas tradition in London that isn’t going anywhere is Christmas at Kew. Set in the Kew Gardens’ spectacular botanical landscape, the light display will take your breath away, as will the flames that flicker away. Don’t worry because they are well-contained. Also, massive illuminations are waiting for you as you walk around. As classical Christmas experiences go, this is probably the most authentic in the city.

Unusual Alternatives

London is nothing if not eclectic, which is ideal if you’re the type of person who enjoys spicing things up as the 25th edges nearer. If you do happen to be in Hyde Park, for example, Winter Wonderland has a circus that includes exotic animals interspersed with acrobatic performances. It’s not often you get to mix tigers and monkeys with the finest Cirque du Soleil has to offer. Go and experience the spectacle and wonder of this unique and exciting experience.

Of course, technology is also a major part of Christmas for lots of people, so you’ll be glad to hear pantomimes in London are catering to your digital needs by providing live streams for viewers who prefer to get into things from the comfort of their homes. In a similar vein, there are plenty of other online entertainment options with a festive feel to enjoy. For example, there are Christmas casino games, some of which offer free spins with no wagering, such as Fruit Shop Christmas Edition and Very Merry Christmas. Meanwhile, there are virtual Christmas parties, wreathe-making and even Christmas murder mysteries to sink our teeth into without having to brave the cold.

Christmas is an amazing time of the year because there are a plethora of activities to choose from for Londoners. It doesn’t matter if you like to wrap up at home or go out and about and sample the experience to get into the yuletide spirit, as London can cater to your every need.