15 Family Things to do around London this Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, London transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of activities that promise to sprinkle magic and joy into the hearts of families. From the enchanting lights of Oxford Street to the timeless tradition of The Nutcracker ballet, the city is bustling with events that cater to all ages and interests.

London during Christmas is a spectacle not to be missed. These experiences not only create lasting memories but also bring the essence of the holiday spirit to life.

As you explore these wonderful activities, remember that the key to a seamless and enriching holiday experience lies in finding the right support to navigate these events. CocoRio stands at the forefront of enhancing your festive season with a range of services tailored to your needs.

1. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: This festive favourite offers ice skating, markets, and rides. Opens on November 17, 2023, and will continue until January 1, 2024. It operates daily from 10 am until 10 pm. More details and booking can be found at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

2. The Nutcracker by the English National Ballet at the London Coliseum: This classic Christmas ballet can be booked through the English National Ballet.This event is scheduled from December 14, 2023, to January 7, 2024

3. Christmas Lights Tour: These tours begin on November 17th, 2023. They will showcase iconic Christmas light attractions around London, including Oxford Street and Harrods.You can plan your trip and book a guided bus tour for as little as £12 here visitlondon.com.

4. Ice Skating at Somerset House: This iconic skating experience can be booked at Somerset House.Available from November 15, 2023, to January 14, 2024​

5. Santa's Grotto at Harrods: This magical experience for children is a firm family favourite.November 18 to December 17, 2023, as well as on December 21, 22, and 23, 2023 More information can be found on Harrods' website.

6. Christmas at Kew Gardens: The festival runs from November 15, 2023, to January 7, 2024. It features a variety of light displays and illuminated installations, and is open daily from 4.20 pm to 10 pm, with last entry at 8 pm.This dazzling light trail and festive events can be booked at Kew Gardens

7. The Peter Pan Cup: This unique Christmas Day swimming event at the Serpentine in Hyde Park is for Serpentine Swimming Club members only, but spectators are welcome. The race starts at 09:00 sharp. For more information, visit the Serpentine Swimming Club's website.

8. A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic: A theatrical performance of the Dickens classic, "A Christmas Carol," is booking from 11 November 2023 to 6 January 2024 at The Old Vic. Tickets can be booked through The Old Vic's website, West End Theatre, Ents24, or Stageberry.

9. WB Studio Tour: Hogwarts in the Snow 11 November 2023 – 14 January 2024: An amazing experience seeing the Harry Potter set and Hogwarts castle model decorated for Christmas. Tickets can be booked at WB Studio Tour London: Making of Harry Potter.

10. Wishmas at Waterloo (14 November 2023 – 7 January 2024): A 60-minute, fully immersive storytelling experience at The Old Bauble Factory under Waterloo station. Tickets can be booked at Wishmas at Waterloo.

11. Southbank Centre Winter Market: The Winter Festival, including the festive market, runs from 28 October 2023 to 7 January 2024 at Southbank Centre. You can find more information about the event on the Southbank Centre's website.

12. The Great Christmas Pudding Race: This fun and quirky event in Covent Garden raises funds for charity and is set to take place in December. For registration and event details, visit The Great Christmas Pudding Race website.

13. Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo (26 November 2023 – 1 January 2024): A festive family day out with the opportunity to meet Santa. Tickets can be booked at ZSL London Zoo.

14. Christmas at the Tower of London (29 November 2023 – 3 January 2024): Experience coronation-themed installations and festive displays. Tickets can be booked at Tower of London.

15. Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace (1 – 3 December 2023): Enjoy a food-lover’s Christmas wonderland at Hampton Court Palace. Entry is included with a Hampton Court Palace admission ticket, available at Hampton Court Palace

After a day full of adventure and festive cheer, CocoRio emerges as the perfect partner to elevate your holiday experience in London. Our diverse services are designed to cater to every aspect of your Christmas adventures:

• Groups and Events: We specialise in organising group activities, ensuring that each member of your family or friend circle gets to enjoy the festivities to the fullest. Whether it’s supporting at a family outing to Winter Wonderland or creating memorable creative experiences for all the children at the Christmas Party so the adults can enjoy it to the fullest, we’ve got you covered.

• One-to-One Experiences: For those seeking a more personalised touch, our one-to-one services are impeccable. We will be delighted to take you children to all these wonderful places, or come to the comfort of your home and make a magical memorable experience there by creating Christmas crafts of singing Festive Carols, we can also ignore all the festivities and just have a creative blast!

In conclusion, while London offers a treasure trove of Christmas activities, CocoRio stands ready to illuminate your holiday and support you through this festive season.