It’s finally November, so forget what everyone else is saying – it’s completely appropriate to get in the Christmas mood. So whether you’re thinking about buying that tree or putting together your Christmas shopping list, I say GO FOR IT. And while you’re at it, here are some brilliant winter events to enjoy in the next six weeks. Mulled wine, spiced cider, festivities in general – HERE YOU COME!
TOP PICK
ICE SKATING AT THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
From now until Sunday 5 January, the annual ice-rink at the Natural History Museum is officially open for business. The 1,000msq area welcomes absolutely everyone – whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skater - and there’s plenty of room for all to enjoy the gorgeous icy setting amongst twinkling Christmas lights. Away from the ice is a fairground carousel and a junior rink for the little ones.
The cosy café bar which overlooks the rink is the perfect stop for a hot chocolate or mulled wine in a lovely ski chalet style setting. There are even comfy sofas to snuggle up on after a session on the ice, and hot food to keep those energy levels up.
Tickets are available now nhmskating.com – watch out for the November promotions!
BRUNCH AT THE SPICE MARKET
Head down to Leicester Square’s rising star restaurant, Spice Market London, for an ultra-special brunch menu this festive season. Created by Executive Chef Peter Lloyd, there’ll be some unique concoctions on offer – including Pork Belly Eggs Benedict with green chilli and yuzu Hollandaise, Padan Waffle with coconut cream and salted caramel, and even champagne mango parfait with lemongrass yoghurt and house-made granola. And just wait until you see the mains… Thai short-rib cheeseburger, anyone? The Spice Market brunch menu is available every Sunday between 12 – 3.30pm from Sunday 24 November.
WINTER-THEMED LONDON EYE EXPERIENCE
From Saturday 30 November, guests visiting the London Eye will be able to opt for a ride in an ice-themed capsule. There’ll be gorgeous twinkling lights, an air of winter with crackling ice, whispering winds and the scent of mint chocolate will fill the air. For something even bigger, look out for the additional Winter Cocktail Experience Capsule too, where Sipsmith London cocktails will be served by an in-capsule mixologist. You can even get involved and mix your own drinks during a double rotation.
A CAR BOOT DISCO
A FREE party where you can swap clothes in aid of a good cause? This sounds like a brilliant idea to me – and a nifty way of getting your Christmas presents sorted…
On Sunday 24 November, the Ministry of Sound will host London’s first ever Car Boot Disco – an afternoon of party tunes, fashion and clothes swapping – to encourage young people to update their wardrobes through exchanging and customising, rather than spending money on new clobber. Genius!
Hot, up and coming fashion designers will be on–hand to offer advice and scouts will be on the lookout for any potential models who can rock an individual outfit. The best part is you’ll come out with impeccable skills on how to recycle your wardrobe – a money saver for those budgeting on their Christmas lists.
The event marks the launch of vInspired’s Get Trashed campaign which aims to save over 10,000 clothes from landfill before 31 December. Tickets are free and available from vinspired.com/gettrashed
GORGEOUS POP UP GIFTS
Enjoy a lovely day of Christmas shopping and cake over in Fulham on Saturday 30 November to celebrate the launch of Izzy’s Attic’s first ever pop-up store. You’ll find everything from photo frames and bookmarks to baby booties and cuff links on offer - and they are all courtesy of the wonderfully creative Izzy Judd.
For more details on what you can find at the pop up store and information on Izzy’s support of the eyes Alight Foundation, head to izzysattic.co.uk or pop in at 242 Munster Road, SW6 6BA on the 30th.
BOXING DAY AT THE CORINTHIA
Looking for a treat this Christmas? Then why not take your loved ones for a stunning Champagne brunch at The Northall, at the Corinthia. For £65 per adult, guests are invited to share in the hotel’s all-you-can-drink Laurent-Perrier stock – and if you don’t fancy the journey home after that, why not book into the hotel with the ‘Take our Life home’ special rates which start at £1999 per room per night. Head to corinthia.com/london for more details. Merry Christmas, indeed!
