Wonderful Covent Garden - A playground for young and old

I have to say that I was so impressed with how beautifully they festively decorated Covent Garden this year that over the Christmas holidays I must have dragged at least half a dozen of my friends in from the suburbs to take it all in.

Walking towards the piazza was like approaching a real winter wonderland (not the plastic version so common today). Inside was a taste of Narnia. Beautiful foliage containing hidden charms and creatures, twinkling lights and candleabras of huge shimmering icicles. Plus some traditional Christmas trees and some large bauble sculptures for a great backdrop for festive family photos.

There was even a springling of German market style wooden kiosks selling all manner of sparkly and tasty treats.

The Crustin'Pipe did a swift trade - supported by some excellent musicians ranging from opera singers to a six piece string group playing everything from seasonal songs to sailors' hornpipes.

Whilst the area has always been well served on the restaurant front there are one or two new establishments that merit a mention. Top of my new list - and a great antidote to all that roast turkey - is OOPS tapas bar (opposite Drury Lane Theatre). A warm welcome and truely excellent food - both traditional fare and some modern surprises.

So well done whoever it was who managed the decorations...it really made central London the magical place it always used to be at Christmas time.