5 alternative ways to enjoy Christmas in London

By default, people have this Victorian image of Christmas in their head. An idea of the family gathered around the ornamented tree, ecstatically unwrapping gifts, sipping eggnog… it is idyllic indeed. The common hope is every year to be as cosy and charming as this, but unfortunately December makes people go a bit crazy. Oxford Street is overflowing with lunatic buyers who are ready to fight you to the death, and the price of mulled wine rises. But here are five alternative ideas for Christmas in London that can warm up the heart of every Scrooge out there:

A walk in Kew Gardens

“As twilight falls, the magic begins…” – it may not seem like extraordinary entertainment
but the one mile walk in Kew Gardens could bewitch you with its charm. Imagine a night stroll through this richly decorated and beautifully illuminated wood. As it has opened just this year, Kew Gardens is the perfect opportunity for an escape from the hustle of the city, enjoying some lovely time with family and friends.
For further information visit here.

 

Christmas at Hogwarts

As Christmas is probably the most memorable part of every Harry Potter film,
Warner Bros Studios has engaged with the complete transformation of the set in the spirit of the holiday.  The tour is available until January, exhibiting some of the best-known spots in the series, like Diagon Alley, the castle itself and the Knight Bus. Even if you are not such a big Potter enthusiast, it is still mesmerisingly festive. 
For further information visit here.

Ghost of Christmas attraction at London Dungeon

The Christmas attraction at London Dungeon may not be joyful and carefree,
but it is entertaining indeed. The clocks are turned back 200 years and all visitors are prime suspects in a crime scene. Everybody is questioned by an investigator, lies come out, three ghosts appear. But be careful not to get lost in the mess as the whole time you will be playing hide-and-seek with Jack the Ripper.
For further information visit here.

 

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer at London Zoo

If you are willing to embrace your inner-child then certainly go to London Zoo
to meet Santa Claus and his reindeer. After you have burdened the bearded old man with your long wish list, go and stroke Rudolph, Dancer, Blitzen and Prancer who will be taking their usual walk. It is a moment to remember and the fulfilment of a childhood dream.
For further information visit here.

 

 

 

 

Christmas with Charles Dickens

And if your hearts are still not conquered by the Christmas spirit
then this Victorian celebration should do the job. Based in the heart of Bloomsbury, the museum of Charles Dickens is still the only one open over the holidays. Enjoy a candle-lit festive evening of film screenings and story-telling in the writer’s home. You will be entertained by actors, fed with luscious mince pies and who knows – maybe the ghost of Charles Dickens will arrive to wish you a Merry Christmas.
For further information visit here.

 

Gergana Krasteva