Whether you fancy a cosy mulled cider, a festive horse and carriage ride or a traditional winter market – you won’t be at a loss of things to do in south west London this Christmas period.
Like Father Christmas does with his reindeer, we’ve rounded up the best events in London this November to January.
St Thomas’ Christmas Fair
When? Sunday, November 27, 3pm-6pm
What? Children’s crafts, a range of gift stalls, an opportunity to make your own Christingle, plus Christmas carols, mulled wine, mince pies and a family Christingle Service at 4.30pm.
How much? Free
Where? St Thomas’ Church, Telford Avenue, SW2 4XW
More info: www.stwss.com
Lancaster London’s Christmas Market
When? Sunday, November 27 from 11am-4pm
What? The hotel’s Nine Kings Foyer will be transformed into a festive fairytale for the second year running.
Visitors will be greeted by an array of seasonal stalls with platters of mince pies, organic cheeses and slices of rich Christmas pudding on offer throughout the day while Christmas carols echo around the room.
Father Christmas will be making guest appearances at 2pm and 3pm.
How much? Free – A complimentary glass of mulled cider (or mulled apple juice) will be handed to guests on arrival, along with a surprise tasty treat.
Where? Lancaster London, Lancaster Terrace, London W2 2TY
More info: www.lancasterlondon.com
Kensington Mums Christmas Fair
When? Sunday, November 27 from 10am-5pm
What? Little-ones will be entertained with arts and crafts, face painting, hair braiding and nail stamping to name but a few of the day’s activities and surprises.
Parents can enjoy festive shopping with entrepreneurial mothers exhibiting at the fair, including Bambini and Me, Club Petit Pierrot, Hesper Fox and Finns of Chelsea.
How much? Free
Where? Kensington Close Hotel, Wrights Lane, W8 5SP
More info: www.kensingtonmums.co.uk
Good Empire Events – Terrariums
When? Sunday, December 11 at 1pm or 3pm
What? During the hour-long workshop you’ll learn how to assemble a living indoor ecosystem, and how to keep your terrarium happy and thriving all year round.
Glassware, succulents, cacti and some Christmassy flourishes will be provided.
How much? £27.14
Where? Balham Bowls Club, 7-9 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX
More info: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/make-good-terrariums-tickets-28524398243
Portobello Winter Festival
When? Friday, December 2-Sunday, December 4 from 10am-8pm
What? Steel pan renditions of Christmas songs on a carnival float, a festive makeover for the world-famous vintage market, pop-up stalls, a rum shack and a Santa’s Grotto.
How much? Free
Where? Portobello Green, W10 5TZ
More info: presents.westway.org/winterfestival
Festive horse drawn carriage rides in Richmond Park
When? Friday, December 9-Friday, December 30 at 12pm and 1pm
What? The Royal Parks Foundation has partnered with Operation Centaur to offer horse drawn carriage rides in Richmond Park with majestic Shire horses.
The festive experience begins at Holly Lodge in Richmond Park before embarking on a 60-minute ride through the park.
The event also includes festive refreshments and a behind-the-scenes visit of the working stables.
How much? £125 for two people (purchase 3 x £375 tickets for exclusive use of the six-person carriage)
Proceeds will help fund sustainable conservation initiatives with the working Shire horses in The Royal Parks.
Where? Holly Lodge, Richmond Park, TW10 5HS
More info: www.supporttheroyalparks.org/events/horse_carriage_rides/
The White Christmas Fair
When? Saturday, December 17 from 5pm-10:30pm
What? Christmas shoppers will be able to shop for special gifts from a selection of handpicked, independent brands, each selling quality gifts and luxury stocking fillers
Surrounded by a collection of bars, restaurants and shops Tooting Market already has to offer, the event will take place under a canopy of fairy lights, to the sound of classic Christmas tunes played by the resident DJ.
How much? Free
Where? Tooting Market 21 – 23, Tooting High St, London SW17 0SN
More info: www.whitechristmasfair.co.uk
Rekorderlig Cider Lodge at Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival
When? Friday, November 11-Sunday, January 22 from 12pm-10pm (Sunday-Thursday)
What? Rekorderlig’s effortlessly stylish Cider Lodge returns to Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival for seasonal fun and festivities, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Scandinavian style, culture, food and drink.
Guests of the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge will discover a seasonal Swedish experience, complete with traditional fire pits and classic Swedish furniture, authentic Swedish food, hot and cold serves of Rekorderlig Spiced Plum and innovative cocktails featuring a range of different Rekorderlig flavours.
How much? Free entry
Where? Southbank Centre’s Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX
More info: www.southbankcentre.co.uk/winter
