As the Christmas season approaches, and London begins it’s decent into Christmas lights and tinsel, here at British Tours we are fast preparing our Christmas tours, events and making sure the all-important mince pies are in stock. For visitors, we know you’ll want to know where the best events are this year, and have included some central London events here for you to plan out your Christmas break in London.

Winter Wonderland

Every winter, London’s Hyde Park hosts the spectacular Winter Wonderland, boasting an array of attractions such as Christmas markets, with traditional spiced mulled wine, and fun-filled rides.

From 18th November at 5pm, then daily from 10am to 10pm (except Christmas Day), until 2nd January. Santa’s Grotto open every day 10am-6pm

A family Christmas – Handle and Hendrix in London

Situated in the home of former Georgian composer Handels, this interactive concert introduces families to festive music from past composers.

10th December, 2pm. Tickets must be booked in advance. For full event details, please visit https://handelhendrix.org/whats-on/events/a-family-christmas/

Cockpit Arms Design Studio Open day

The home of upcoming designers and crafters, Cockpit Arms will be opening its doors for a behind the scenes visit, and a chance to meet with designers and buy a range of crafts.

24th to 27th November, Thurday 6pm-9pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm. For more information, please visit: http://cockpitarts.com/shop-cockpit/open-studios/

Southbank Market

A cultural delight all year round, Southbank will be holding its Winter festival during the holiday season.

The Rekorderlig cider lodge will provide ample opportunity to taste some Swedish cider, and the roller disco brings some Eighties nostalgia to the festivities.

Assorted events, 11th November to 25th January. For more information, please visit the following link: http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/festivals-series/winter-festival

Eltham Palace Concerts and Party

Enjoy the sounds of traditional and 1930’s Christmas with these two events at Eltham Palace, the outer London retreat of the wealthy Courtauld family. During a break from the music, take a look round the fabulous art deco interiors, which borrow designs from Sweden, Italy and Hungary. Added to the mix is the Tudor Great Hall, wonderfully restored by the Courtaulds.

Carol Concert: 11th December, 7:30pm-9pm. Christmas Party: 4th December, 11am-3pm, Pre-booking essential

Old Royal Naval College Christmas Concert

Situated in beautiful maritime Greenwich, this Christmas concert features many classical carols, as well as a few select readings. Guests can choose to have a mulled wine and mince pie reception prior to the carols or alternatively opt for a champagne reception and then a two course meal served in the Admiral House.

10th December, 7pm-8:30pm, or 10:30pm with the meal, Pre-booking essential