The UK’s capital city can be a very pretty place to visit in the winter, but shopping in the main areas can be more like hell than heaven. Happily, it’s easy to avoid the usual shopping traps, and get all your present purchases done while enjoying the twinkling lights and culinary delights Christmas has to offer. Hop on a Boris Bike, which is only £3 for the day for journeys under 30 minutes.
Spin your way along the riverside to the Southbank Winter Festival and you are guaranteed to find some quirky and cool gifts. It’s perfect for a romantic winter wander, and you can finish the day up with a cocktail and seat at La Soiree, a cabaret and burlesque show.
Alternatively, spin your way along the river, up past the Houses of Parliament and on to Hyde Park for the Winter Wonderland. This is much more than just a Christmas Market, with fairground rides, an ice rink, and Santa Land to visit. Pace yourself or make a weekend out of it, as there’s a lot to see!
Dates: Southbank Winter Festival 5th November – 11th January, Winter Wonderland 21st November – 4th January
Location: Southbank and Hyde Park, London.
More info: Southbank Winter Festival, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Cycle Route: Barclays Cycle Hire,
