Back in January we set a family goal to visit London this Winter! We’ve loved our little adventures in London in the past, but as we head towards Christmas, I know that this City really comes alive with wonderous activities and pretty lights, and I thought it would be so lovely to share all of that magic with the Kids.
For most parent’s, I think Winter is a welcomed magical time from the spooky excitement of Halloween. This time of year is certainly exciting (and busy) with Halloween, the atmosphere of Bonfire Night and the countdown to (dare I say it) Santa’s imminent arrival, and although it’s a pretty hectic season and we could all use an extra few hours here and there, it’s also pretty and very exciting. With all of this, my thoughts were – what better way to add to the anticipation than a magical family trip to the capital?
Here are some family friendly ideas we’ve had that you might find useful for a Winter trip to London this year – and most of them are FREE!
Christmas Tree Hunt
Although we are only in October, Christmas will be here before we know it, and the festive season just wouldn’t be complete without a decadently-dressed tree. After all, from placing baubles on the tree to spotting the best bedecked houses, kids love decorations. So, if you happen to be in London this winter, make sure you visit some of the best Christmas trees. From the huge tree at Covent Garden to the designer ones at Claridge’s (they wouldn’t let our monkey’s in!), I think there will be plenty of beautiful trees that will be filling little faces with awe and wonder.
Lots of Lights
Depending on when you travel to London this winter, there is a chance you’ll be treated to magnificent light displays. The images of the lights down Oxford street all over Instagram last year were what initially planted this idea. London goes huge with Christmas decorations and displays at Carnaby Street, Oxford Street and Kew Gardens, where you’ll find hundreds of thousands of lights. Plus, if you’re heading down for New Year’s Eve, you’ll be amazed by firework displays along the banks of the Thames, and specifically around the London eye (which can be seen across central London).
Outdoor Ice Skating
Provided the kids are catered for with those little ice skating buddies, this can be such a fun family activity. And what could be more wintery than an outdoor ice rink? In London, there are loads to choose from – including Somerset House (14th November – 13th January) and the Natural History Museum (25th October – 6th January). There is also the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (22nd November – 6th January), which is our main pull to London this Winter – it boasts over 100,000 lights, festive stalls and an enchanted forest with ice sculptures! How magical!
Indoor Attractions
Whilst Christmas trees, pretty lights and ice rinks are all wonderful and magical, in our UK chilly temperatures, it is likely that you’ll probably want some indoor attractions too. Aside from the obvious free museums across London (check their websites for Christmas events) you can Keep the family warm and entertained with a trip to meet Santa at London Zoo, or book tickets to a show like the Witness for the Prosecution play or a musical! In all of this I also hope that there will be time to do a spot of shopping – including some of these toy shops.
A family trip to London can be a lot of fun, especially in the Winter and I really hope that we can make it happen to wrap up 2018! Why not make the most of the festive season too with these magical activities and ideas for all the family!
*Collaborative Post
Loved it.