Christmas in London - Offbeat Things to Do
London Eye,Pantomime,Ice Skating, Carols inTrafalgar Square
Nov 9, 2008
When you have done the shopping, seen the shows, and done all the famous sights, why not do something a bit different? London has dozens of Christmassy events which are not always obvious. Here are just a few to get you going.
The London Eye on the South Bank
The London Eye provides the perfect backdrop to get into the Christmas spirit allowing visitors to take in all the city’s Yuletide decorations and glittering lights. It is also a great spot from which to take panoramic views of the city, not only because of of its great hight but also because it moves so slowly and steadily that it hardly seems to be moving at all.
This is the world’s tallest observation wheel. It sits on the South Bank of the River Thames. The word 'Eye’is a good way to describe it as it offers a wide ranging view of London. The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Bridge are below you, with Buckingham Palace and the Foreign Office slightly offside. Not to mention being able to see up to 40 kilometres in all directions.
Traditional English Pantomime
Christmas is ‘Panto’ time in London. Pantomimes have been playing to children and grownups alike since the 17th century and many London theaters and musical venues keep the tradition going.
There’s lots of interaction with the audience, with much cheering and booing from kids (and big people too). All really good fun.
A favourite pantomime is ‘Cinderella’ which will be playing at the Old Vic Theatre. This version of Cinderella is described as "cheekily updated for the 21st century with an abundance of double entendres".
Ice Skating at Somerset House on the Strand
Another Christmas fun thing that can be enjoyed by all the family is ice skating in the spectacular 18th century setting of Somerset House. This is the most glamorous outdoor venue in London. There’s a fab Christmas tree and a cafe that is open from breakfast to late evening.
The rink is open all day and into the night seven days a week until the end of January. It is very popular, so try to purchase your tickets online or in advance at the onsite ticket booth.
Alternatively, if you don't feel like braving the ice it's a great spectator sport and a good spot to enjoy a hot chocolate and take in the surrounding fabulous historic buildings.
19th November 2008 - 25th January 2009 - Times 10:00 AM - 10:15 PM - Rental skates available.
Christmas Carols at Trafalgar Square
One of London’s most famous icons is Trafalgar Square which has been a meeting place since the Middle Ages. It is a venue for every kind of gathering from political protests to pop concerts, but the most popular and uplifting are the Christmas Carol services at which everyone can join in,
Trafalgar Square will be home to a season of carol services throughout December, inviting Londoners to get into the festive spirit. A selection of choirs from across the capital will be setting up in the Square and going through all the classics.
The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree is one of the most beautiful in London. The first tree was brought over in 1947 as a token of Norwegian appreciation of British friendship during the Second World War. When Norway was invaded by German forces in 1940, King Haakon VII escaped to Britain and a Norwegian exile government was set up in London. Every year since, the people of Oslo present a tree to London
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