What To Book For Christmas Before It Sells Out
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THE PLAY:
A Christmas Carol
On a cold Christmas Eve, bitter and miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unexpected visit from the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley. Shackled in chains as punishment for his lifetime of greed, Marley warns Scrooge that it's not too late to change his ways – if he's willing to confront three more ghostly visitors. Matthew Warchus’s heartwarming, critically acclaimed production of Charles Dickens's timeless tale returns to The Old Vic. Adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, His Dark Materials) and starring John Simm (Life on Mars, Grace) as Scrooge, this festive classic is a must-see.
103 The Cut, Waterloo, SE1 8NB; 9th November- 4th January
Visit OLDVICTHEATRE.COM
THE BALLET:
The Nutcracker
Like tinsel and mince pies, The Nutcracker is an enduring holiday tradition. Following the success of last year’s performances, the Birmingham Royal Ballet will once again take to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall with its production of Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet. The whole family can witness Clara's toys spring to life at the stroke of midnight as they embark on a mesmerising journey through a fantastical winter wonderland, filled with dancing snowflakes and culminating in the enchanting realm of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Kensington Gore, South Kensington, SW7 2AP; various dates throughout December
Visit ROYALALBERTHALL.COM
THE LIGHT SHOW:
Christmas at Kew Gardens
Kew’s winter trail is set to return with old favourites and new light installations this season. Visitors can expect bursts of colour and enchanting optics as they explore Kew’s Unesco World Heritage landscape after dark. Along the trail, which takes around 90 minutes to complete, you’ll find a tunnel covered with a canopy of glowing, colour-changing stars. Further along, there are the flickering flames of the fire garden and even more attractions for that all-important Instagram moment. Stop off at the food stalls along the way to try festive treats and boozy hot chocolate.
Richmond, TW9 3AE; 13th November-5th January
Visit KEW.ORG
THE COCKTAIL SPOT:
Miracle at Henrietta Hotel
Catching up with friends before Christmas can feel like an Olympic marathon, but if you're after a playful spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the Miracle pop-up bar is your festive finish line. Imported from the US by the Experimental Group, this kitsch cocktail haven is back for another year of yuletide fun. Taking over the mezzanine at Henrietta Hotel in Covent Garden, it’s the perfect place for a seasonal pit stop. If last year is any clue, expect outrageously festive cocktails served in equally ridiculous glassware.
15 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8QG
Visit MIRACLEATHENRIETTA.COM
THE PANTO:
Robin Hood Palladium
This year, the London Palladium is telling the legendary tale of Robin Hood. Comedian Julian Clary returns for his ninth year at the venue, starring as the iconic outlaw himself, with TV favourite Jane McDonald as Maid Marian. Expect plenty of slapstick, spectacle and sensory overload to keep the little ones entertained, while the tongue-in-cheek humour ensures grown-ups will be chuckling along too.
Argyll Street, Soho, W1F 7TF; 7th December-12th January
Visit PALLADIUMPANTOMIME.COM
THE MAGICAL PRODUCTION:
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake burst onto the scene nearly 30 years ago, revolutionising the dance theatre world with its bold, rule-breaking reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet. For Christmas 2025, the show returns with a fresh revamp and a new generation of performers. For those seeing it for the first time, this isn’t your traditional Swan Lake. Bourne’s version is a darker, twisted take on the Russian classic, filled with hallucinations and sinister characters, with all-male swans replacing the familiar female ensemble. Amid the intensity, Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score and moments of levity – like a disenchanted burlesque dancer – infuse the production with humour and charm.
Rosebery Avenue, Angel, EC1R 4TN; 3rd December-26th January
Visit SADLERSWELLS.COM
THE TABLE:
Fire & Fromage at South Bank’s Winter Igloos
It’s about spending QT with loved ones, but the festive season is also a time for indulgence. Fondue, raclette and mulled wine are the order of the day on the South Bank this year as Jimmy’s Winter Lodge returns with a cosy Thames-side pop-up that’s perfect for gathering friends and family. Escape the chill in heated igloos, dive into Alpine fondue and charcuterie boards, and sip on warm mulled drinks as you watch the world go by from your snug riverside spot.
Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX; 2nd November-31st December
Visit JIMMYSPOPUP.COM
THE FESTIVE EXTRAVAGANZA:
Christmas At The Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall always pulls out all the stops for its Christmas showcase, and this year is no exception. The venue has been celebrating the festive season for 150 years and this year sees the return of tried-and-true classics and some newbie musical delights. Highlights include a festive evening with piano-man Jamie Cullum, a classical Christmas night with Katherine Jenkins, Guy Barker’s Big Band Christmas and a performance from the London Community Gospel Choir. Our pick is Home Alone in Concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Kensington Gore, South Kensington, SW7 2AP; various dates throughout December
Visit ROYALALBERTHALL.COM
THE ACTIVITY:
Skate At Somerset House
A cherished UK winter tradition, Skate at Somerset House returns this November, kicking off the festive season with an unmatched ice-skating experience. Set against the backdrop of Somerset House's handsome neoclassical courtyard, this magical venue offers more than just skating – expect decadent winter treats, contemporary music and gift shopping. With slots booking up quickly, be sure to secure yours early.
Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA; 13th November-12th January
Visit SOMERSETHOUSE.ORG.UK
THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE:
The Lost Estate’s A Christmas Carol
If you’re looking to shake up your Christmas traditions – and the kids are too old for pantos – The Lost Estate’s immersive take on A Christmas Carol is the perfect alternative. Returning for its seventh year after six sell-out seasons, this 2024 edition transports you to Victorian London on Christmas Eve, 1843, where you’ll experience Dickens's classic tale like never before. The production combines stunning performances, cinematic live music, and a lavish Victorian feast crafted by executive chef Ashley Clarke (Gordon Ramsay Group, SmokeStak). Highlights include corn-fed chicken, confit Gressingham duck and Twelfth Night cake, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
7-9 Beaumont Avenue, West Kensington, W14 9LP; 8th November-12th January
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