Press pause on mulled wine and mince pies and venture outside to see what London has to offer this Christmas

It’s the final curtain call for 2021 and the festive season is in full swing. Whether you’re spending the holidays reuniting with loved ones or bracing yourself for a whirlwind of social gatherings, it’s a magical time of year to enjoy the city. We’ve rounded up our favourite festive-focused happenings this winter season, from annual favourites such as ice skating at Somerset House, to an exhibition celebrating Christmas through the decades. These are ones not to miss.

Skate at Somerset House

After a hiatus in 2020, the famed ice rink is back in the neoclassical courtyard of Somerset House this year, where you can skate well into the night to sets from resident DJs. Rink-side cocktails and champagne comes courtesy of Moët & Chandon, while a medley of festive fare is on offer from Jimmy Garcia’s pop-up, Chalet Barragiste. Open until 16^th January 2022.

Christmas Past at the Museum of the Home

Returning this year to the Shoreditch-based Museum of the Home is the popular Christmas Past exhibition, delving into the celebration of Christmas at home over the past 400 years. Their regular Rooms Through Time feature will undergo a transformation to show how festive interiors have adapted and transformed through the decades. With a host of Christmas-themed workshops for the whole family to enjoy. Running until 9^th January 2022.

Festive Fusion at Kol

With an incredible menu masterminded by Mexican chef Santiago Lastra, Kol in Marylebone is putting a Mexican spin on festivities with a soulful ambience, perfect for convivial gatherings. Their warming winter menu fuses traditional Mexican flavours with the finest seasonal British produce. For private dining, book a seat at The Chef’s Table, with its own kitchen, and immerse yourself completely in the festive fine-dining experience.

Mayfair Christmas Market

The Christmas Market is returning to Mayfair Place this year, transforming it into a festive wonderland thanks to Novikov restaurant. Lined with artisan stalls from the likes of jewellers Olivia & Pearl and accessories label Lacorine, you can shop like a local in London over the course of this weekend. Sip mulled wine while ambling round the market and follow it up with Asian and Italian delicacies straight from the Novikov kitchen. Swing by the Louis Roederer Champagne Ice Bar for a nightcap. From 25^th - 27^th November.

The Gingerbread City

Returning this Christmas with a charming display of famous architectural works replicated in miniature gingerbread form is The Gingerbread City, with all proceeds donated to the Museum of Architecture. Taking place at a brand-new pop-up location in Belgravia, it’s a mouthwatering showcase exploring the themes of nature in the city and sustainability. Roll up your sleeves for the gingerbread house-making workshops that run alongside the exhibition. Until 9^th January 2022.

somersethouse.com, museumofthehome.com, kolrestaurant.com, mayfairchristmasmarket.com, thegingerbreadcity.com

@somersethouse, @museumofthehome, @kol.restaurant, @novikovrestaurant, @thegingerbreadcity

Photo Credits:
Images 1 and 2: Courtesy of Somerset House
Image 3: Courtesy of the Museum of the Home
Image 4: Courtesy of Kol
Image 5: Courtesy of Unsplash
Image 6: Courtesy of the Gingerbread City