Top five things to do in London for Christmas 2012

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty – A Gothic Romance

From 4^th December 2012 to 26^th January 2013, Sadler’s Wells will host a classic fairytale…with a twist! The theatre will put on a most peculiar version of Sleeping Beauty, with gothic-styled sets and inspired by the return of vampires to the public’s consciousness. The play could be a winning marketing strategy to celebrate the 25^th anniversary of the launch of Bourne’s company, New Adventures. Be that as it may, it sounds like an interesting way to spend a night out without missing the charms of Christmas time.

For further information, click here.

Carnaby Street’s tribute to the Rolling Stones

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of the founding of one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll acts in the world: The Rolling Stones. In tribute, the world-famous, fashion-devoted street par excellence has renewed a joint partnership with the band, which started in the 1960s, by restyling itself with decorations inspired by and designed for the Stones, and setting up a dedicated pop-up store on the street. Make sure you pop up to enjoy this one-off event while it lasts (until 6^th January 2013) and participate in a competition that might have you win a mouth-watering prize.

More details can be found here.

Christmas Past at the Geffrye Museum

Undeniably, there’s no jollity without Christmas decorations. Whether it be in the streets, or in our own houses, and whether you attach a spiritual significance to them or you just like the way they put you in the festive mood, Christmas decorations are beloved by all. So why not pay a visit to one of London’s favourite museums at this special time of year? The Geffrye Museum’s period rooms are now decorated for their evocative annual exhibition on how Christmas has been celebrated in English homes over the past 400 years. This event will run until 6^th January 2013. 

For further information, click here.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Traditions are long lasting, so what’s better than spending a day (or more) in this labyrinth of marvels? Have fun while doing some necessary sport to balance the season’s typical eat-and-drink binge, enjoy skating at the Ice Age 4 rink, experience the magic wandering through the themed rooms of the Ice Kingdom, or see 360 degree panoramic views over Winter Wonderland and beyond from the Giant Observation Wheel. Many other attractions and events are available too, until 6^th January 2013. For children and adults alike, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is definitely the ultimate Christmas experience, but prepare to book in advance to avoid disappointment!

For further information, click here.

Constellations

Until 5^th January 2013, the Duke of York’s Theatre will see Sally Hawkins and Rafe Spall perform Constellations, a play about love in a quantum universe. If it’s true that at Christmas we all behave to avoid Santa’s naughty list, perhaps it is not the same for this couple, whose relationship could take various different paths, some happy, some heart-breaking. To find out how the story ends (or, in fact, how the stories end), make sure you grab a seat and regardless of the outcome, the Christmas atmosphere will put you in a good mood.

For further information, click here.

Rita Vicinanza