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This December, Boxcar Bread & Wine in Marylebone is embracing the season with a limited-edition collaboration that blends its neighbourhood charm with the refined artistry of Japanese matcha. Partnering with KOMA, the premium Kyoto-born brand celebrated for its 100 percent organic matcha, the bakery and brunch favourite unveils a duo of festive drinks designed to spotlight the depth, tradition and elegance of Uji matcha. Sourced from Kyoto’s historic Uji region, where tea cultivation has thrived for more than 270 years, KOMA’s matcha is known for its exceptional quality and vibrant flavour. Boxcar Bread & Wine’s December specials honour this heritage through two thoughtfully crafted serves, each offering a different expression of matcha’s signature earthy richness and gentle umami. The KOMA Yuki leads the line-up, a velvety warm blend of KOMA matcha, creamy white chocolate and a whisper of nutmeg, finished with a handcrafted meringue stick for a touch of festive indulgence. Comforting and luxurious, it’s a winter warmer that nods to classic seasonal flavours while allowing the matcha to shine. For something brighter, the Matcha Dream offers a refreshing iced alternative. Here, matcha is lifted with a jasmine tea infusion, rose water, lemon juice and soda, creating a floral, lightly sparkling serve. Dried rose petals and lemon balm add an elegant flourish, making it a crisp counterpoint to the richness of the Yuki. Guests can also personalise both drinks with optional add-ons: an extra shot of matcha or a splash of Irish cream liqueur for the KOMA Yuki, or a measure of gin for the Matcha Dream. To mark the collaboration, Boxcar Bread & Wine will also host a curated collection of festive matcha gifts. From beautifully packaged KOMA matcha sets to traditional bamboo whisks, each item is wrapped in Japanese-style seasonal packaging, offering Londoners a thoughtful and design-led way to bring a touch of Kyoto into their homes. Available from Monday 1 st  December to Wednesday 31 st  December at Boxcar Bread & Wine. Address: 30-31 Kendal St, St George's Fields, London W2 2AW For more information click here . Written by Erika Jane    Photography courtesy of Boxcar Group

If you’re after a wine bar that feels both relaxed and refined, Humble Grape on Devonshire Street is worth a visit. We booked for a Friday evening, and even at 6 pm the place was buzzing, a great sign of its popularity. The restaurant covers two floors  and we were shown to our table downstairs, giving it a cozy wine cellar like vibe. We were greeted by Maria, who handed us menus and suggested starting with a glass of sparkling wine and at our request chose a 2020 Cremant de Bourgogne Brut for us. Excellent recommendation,  perfectly balanced between sweet and dry. Honestly, my new favourite. For starters I chose the burrata with roast heritage carrots and honey glaze. The creamy burrata paired with al dente heritage carrots and a touch of honey sweetness was sublime. My guest went for the chicken liver pâté with red wine gel and sourdough. While the pâté had a lovely smooth texture, the flavour didn’t quite stand out. The sourdough, however, was so good we ordered extra. For our mains I opted for the grass-fed rump fillet and added peppercorn sauce and hand-cut chips as sides. The steak was cooked to a perfect medium rare and came pre-sliced, a nice touch. Every bite was spot-on, and I spent my time savouring every morsel,  including the sauce and perfectly seasoned chips. My guest had the chicken schnitzel with cold potato salad and herb dressing. We were pleasantly surprised, this was no ordinary schnitzel. Elevated, well-presented, and full of flavour. Maria then surprised us with a red wine pairing: Château Cordet from France. At £18.65 a glass, it’s on the pricier side, but worth every sip - rich, elegant, and perfectly matched to our mains. We waited for a while before ordering our desserts which we decided to share as we both wanted the same thing. We chose the Chocolate Fondant with Vanilla Ice cream and Spiced Apple & Butterscotch Pavlova. The chocolate fondant was the clear winner, indulgent and gooey and mixed with the ice-cream, a decadent treat. The pavlova, however, missed the mark; more crunchy meringue pieces than the crisp-outside, soft-inside texture you’d expect. The atmosphere and service at Humble Grape was idyllic, Maria’s attention to detail was fantastic throughout, friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about wine. The vibe downstairs is warm and intimate, ideal for a relaxed evening with great food and wine either for date night or with friends. Address: 13 Devonshire Row , Liverpool Street, London For more information click here . Written by Lorna Bryn Photo courtesey of Humble Grape

This winter, The Alpine Lodge at Vicinity returns to the riverside with its most atmospheric season yet, bringing ski-chalet charm and après-ski spirit to one of London’s most iconic locations. Set beneath the soaring arches of Tower Bridge, the terrace at Vicinity has once again been transformed into a cosy alpine hideaway, offering Londoners a festive escape without leaving the city. The Alpine Lodge is designed for every kind of winter gathering, whether it’s after-work cocktails, a chilled weekend meet-up, or a romantic winter date. Inside, guests will find a warmly lit lodge dressed with faux fur throws, snow-kissed Alpine trees and a working ski lift perfect for a photo that could easily pass for the Alps. Panoramic views of Tower Bridge and The City complete the picture, all while you settle into a snug seat and take in the festive atmosphere. The drinks list is as warming as the interiors. Expect steaming Mulled Wine and Cider, Boozy Hot Chocolates, Hot Toddies and a line-up of festive cocktails crafted in partnership with Absolut. Kopparberg cider also features prominently, available on tap or mulled for an even cosier twist. The food menu draws inspiration from both Alpine comfort cooking and Scandinavian street food, offering something for every appetite. Guests can snack on Loaded Rosti Potato Bites or opt for Tartiflette and the Ultimate Turkey Sandwich served with its own gravy dipping pot. Those seeking something indulgent can lean into the Swiss Fondue, a creamy blend of Emmental and Gruyere melted with white wine, schnapps and garlic, served alongside ciabatta, new potatoes and pickled onions. Walk-ins are welcome, making The Alpine Lodge an easy choice for spontaneous festive plans. Located within The Tower Hotel, Vicinity offers sweeping views of Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks, HMS Belfast and The Shard, shaping an unforgettable backdrop for winter nights out.  To book click here . Address: The Alpine Lodge at Vicinity, The Tower Hotel, St Katharine's Way, London, E1W 1LD Written by Enytha Peer   Photography courtesy of Vicinity London

The festive season has arrived, swirling in with all its sparkle, warmth, and excitement. It’s the time for Christmas parties, magical winter experiences, and indulging in seasonal delights,  from buttery mince pies to cups of aromatic, spiced mulled wine. To help you embrace every magical moment, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite festive spots across London to visit. Weekly Christmas market and live music in Islington Square Head over to Islington Square every Saturday for a festive market brimming with creativity, character, and Christmas cheer. Discover hands-on craft workshops, browse distinctive independent retailers, and enjoy the glow of sparkling decorations as live music fills the air. With its spacious, welcoming setting, Islington Square is the perfect place to shop, dine, and unwind. Explore one-of-a-kind gifts, treat yourself to delicious food and drink, and round off your visit with a film or theatre show, all within the same magical destination. This year’s vibrant Christmas market, curated by Urban Food Fest, will feature an exciting mix of local makers and artisan stalls on 6th, 13th, and 20th December. Plus, enjoy live music every Saturday in December as you mooch around, shop and get into the festive mood.  For more information visit https://www.islingtonsquare.com The Yards Covent Garden presents open air immersive Christmas music event series  The Yards Covent Garden is lighting up the season with a magical series of free festive performances, called Lantern Light Nights. The next events take place on 4th December and 11th December, from 5pm–8pm, when The Yards’ open-air shopping and dining quarter will be transformed into a captivating musical wonderland. 4th December – Strings of the Season World-renowned harpist Valeria Clarke fills The Yards with an ethereal festive soundtrack, while ballerinas from Pineapple Dance Studios perform Nutcracker-inspired choreography beneath the glowing lantern installation. A magical, open-air ballet moment and no theatre ticket needed. 11th December – Christmas Céilí: Celebrate the arrival of the Guinness Open Gate Brewery London with an Irish-themed night of music and dance. Enjoy lively Celtic tunes from Blag Band, dazzling step dancing from Pineapple Dance Studios, and a special performance by acclaimed harpist-fiddler Maggie Mae Henegan. From “Whisky in the Jar” to Riverdance-style energy, its heritage meets holiday magic. For more information, visit   https://theyardscoventgarden.co.uk Marvel at the Christmas lights and pick a free hot chocolate from the Fitzrovia Quarter A visit to Oxford Street during the festive season to marvel at the Christmas lights is practically a Christmas tradition, a chance to wander beneath its iconic canopy of twinkling lights, each one guiding you from shop to shop with a little extra magic. This year, the West End has become even merrier with a delightfully cosy surprise: free hot chocolate to warm your winter stroll.  On Wednesday 26 November and 3rd, 10th, and 17th December, from 4–7pm, visitors can stop by the Fitzrovia Quarter mobile bar in Market Place to pick up a complimentary cup of rich, warming hot chocolate before setting off to explore the West End.  For more information visit https://fitzroviaquarter.co.uk The Nutcracker Noir   The Nutcracker Noir is a daring, modern twist on Tchaikovsky’s classic, inviting guests into a world where fantasy, theatre, and dining blend into one unforgettable experience. The story follows Clara, an orphan growing up in a whimsical, surreal realm as she creates her own spirited version of the beloved tale. Guests journey through five immersive spaces, each filled with captivating performances, secret theatrical moments, and extraordinary characters, before entering the grand theatre for the main event. Here, the show unfolds alongside a beautifully curated dining experience. Food becomes part of the storytelling itself, with an imaginative multi-course menu crafted by immersive dining expert Jenny McNeill of Feast + Fable. Each dish subtly echoes pivotal moments in Clara’s adventure, complemented by a refined wine list, Champagne, and signature cocktails. The Nutcracker Noir runs until 21 December. The  Nutcracker  are available now from £48. For further information, visit  www.nutcracker-noir.co.uk

The most magical time is nearly upon us, a season of twinkling lights, crackling fires, and that unmistakable sparkle of anticipation in the air. Christmas is calling, and with it comes the joy of finding those perfect little treasures that make children’s eyes light up on Christmas day. Our gift guide is bursting with imagination, wonder, and festive cheer, featuring enchanting surprises. The Photo Creator Video Projector Camera  Got a budding creator at home? Spark their imagination with the 3-in-1 Video Projector Camera from Photo Creator, the ultimate gift for kids who love to capture, create, and share their world. They can snap 48MP photos, record HD videos, and then project their masterpieces in full colour, perfect for a solo showtime or a fun family viewing night. Packed with 27 playful effects, including digital frames and filters, every moment becomes a chance to experiment and personalise their creations. The Photo Creator Video Projector Camera promises endless creative fun and hours of imaginative play. Price: RRP £74.99 Available from Smyths Toys , Argos , Amazon   Spell Seekers The Magical Quest Interactive Spellbook The perfect gift for little wizards and witches, where they will uncover the mystical secrets of Etornia and see if they have what it takes to become the next legendary Spell Seeker. Following a quest map and choosing a path through a land full of wondrous surprises, magical spells, and enchanting adventures. They will have fun waving the wand, casting incredible spells, brewing bubbling potions, and meeting curious new friends. Price: £29.99  Available from SmythsToys.com Techno Gears Marble Mania Twin Twister  The Techno Gears Marble Mania Twin Twister is an action-packed marble maze packed with colourful twists, turns, and thrills that will keep kids entertained for hours. This clever construction set helps kids think, build, and problem-solve while boosting their confidence and fine motor skills. It’s a brilliant mix of creativity, engineering, and hands-on fun. The perfect Christmas gift for builders, tinkerers, and future engineers.  Price £50.00 Available from Next Toniebox 2 This clever, kid-powered audio player turns storytime, singalongs, and playtime into pure imagination magic. With the Toniebox 2, children can listen, learn, and explore through their favourite stories, songs, and beloved Tonie characters, all brought to life in a whole new, interactive way. And with its brand-new dynamic Light Ring, the Toniebox 2 doesn’t just sound magical, it looks it too. Glowing in a spectrum of rainbow colours, it gives helpful visual cues and creates a beautifully immersive playtime experience. Take storytime to the next level with the Toniebox 2. Toniebox 2 is £94.99 and can be purchased HERE  (£94.99) Tonieplay bundle which comes with two stories can be purchased HERE  and priced at £119.99. The Gruffalo and Paddington are available for £14.99 each also at tonies.com Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet The Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet is the ultimate all-in-one creative companion for kids. The device lets young imaginations run wild as they snap vibrant 12MP photos and selfies, record their own HD videos, and bring drawings and designs to life right on the screen. With the built-in thermal printer, kids can instantly print their creations, no ink or no mess, it's the gift that keeps giving. Price: £129.99 Available from SmythsToys.com CONNETIX Magnetic Tiles Light Star Pack The Connetix Magnetic Tile Set is the ultimate gift for curious, creative kids who love to build, stack, and explore. With a mix of pentagons, squares, and triangles in eight dazzling colours (plus a magical, rechargeable light-up tile!), every build transforms into a glowing masterpiece. Kids can choose from three brightness levels and light up one or both sides to create a colourful light show that sparkles with wonder. Price: £59 Available from John Lewis Create Crazy Bubbles The Bubble Science Kit lets kids create a whirlwind of wibbly, wobbly, wonderfully fun bubble activities, from giant bubbles and cube bubbles to bouncing bubbles and so much more.  With easy step-by-step instructions and online tutorials, they can master 9 exciting bubble experiments, while learning the cool science behind them. It’s the perfect mix of play and discovery, guaranteed to fill the day with laughter, amazement, and a whole lot of bubbles. Price: £10.00  Available from Amazon   BLOPENS Fantasy Creative Studio Set Little artists will love bringing their wildest imaginations to life with the Ultimate Airbrush Art Kit, bursting with fantasy-themed stencils, a fold-out easel, and everything they need for a whirlwind of colourful fun. When the fun’s done, everything packs up neatly into a handy carry case, perfect for creating on the go or showing off their sparkling artwork to friends and family. It ’s everything a young creator needs to blow, sparkle, and shine their way into a very merry and colourful Christmas. Price: £24.99  Available from Smyths Toys Maped Creativ - Airbrush Maker Your little one will feel like a true mini graffiti artist with this gift. With five stencil sheets, 12 vibrant Maped Jungle felt-tip pens, and 24 fun sticker sheets, they can create bold designs and tag their name on the included mini board or on any of the paper sheets in the pack. It’s everything they need for hours of colorful, creative fun. Price: £27.61 Available from Amazon TOMY Extreme Silence Game! This side-splitting game is guaranteed to have kids and grown-ups alike in stitches this Christmas. It’s the ultimate holiday challenge, complete hilarious physical tasks… but whatever you do, don’t make a sound.  Whether you’re tearing wrapping paper, tiptoeing like Santa, or trying to hum a carol under your breath, every tiny sound is tracked by the real working Decibel Detector. Make too much noise and and the alarm goes off, and your turn is over. Stay silent to win the card and claim victory, but beware, it’s harder than it looks when everyone’s laughing. Price:  £24.99  Available from Smyths , Argos and Amazon Cool Chemistry The Brainstorm Toys Chemistry Lab Set is packed with mind-blowing experiments, from bubbling potions and swimming jellyfish to vibrant, shifting magma. Every experiment is like a mini science show waiting to unfold right before their eyes. Perfect for curious minds and budding scientists, this set turns learning into pure holiday fun. Price: 9.99  Available from Waterstones Electronic Spirograph  Machine Let their imagination whirl into action as they create dazzling designs that dance across the page. All they have to do is pick a pen, choose a mode, and watch as mesmerising spirograph patterns magically come to life before their eyes. With endless combinations of swirls, loops, and twists, every spin is a brand-new masterpiece waiting to happen. It’s creative fun that keeps on turning, the perfect gift for kids who love art, colour, and a little bit of magic. Price: RRP £21.99  Available from Smyths Toys

Kricket Shoreditch has given breakfast a welcome shake-up with its new Breakfast Thali, a tasting-style morning feast that brings together the bold, bustling flavours the restaurant is known for. Priced at £15, it’s designed to showcase the very best of Kricket’s Kafé offering, in one generous, well-curated spread and it more than delivers. On my visit, I opted for the bacon pao, a soft, pillowy roll that arrived packed with smoky bacon and tangy tomato chutney. It’s comforting without being heavy and sets the tone for a breakfast built on proper flavour. Alongside it came a vibrant serving of eggs Bhurji, gently spiced and perfectly scrambled, offering warmth and depth without overpowering the plate. The Andhra hash brown quickly became a standout; golden, crisp and packing a lively kick of chilli that lifts the whole dish. The tamarind brown sauce ties everything together with its sharp-sweet brightness, adding a welcome twist to the traditional condiment and giving the thali a satisfying sense of cohesion. For a lighter finish, the vanilla Shrikhand was smooth, cool and delicately perfumed, acting as a refreshing palate cleanser. The fruit salad added a burst of juiciness and colour, keeping the experience balanced and making sure the thali never strays into heaviness. To drink, a cup of freshly brewed masala chai offers gentle spice and sweetness, the kind that eases you into the day without rushing you along. I couldn’t resist ordering an extra drink: a pressed coconut juice topped with a cold foam matcha, which arrived silky and just sweet enough.  What sets the Breakfast Thali apart is its sense of rhythm, every component has its place, and nothing feels like an afterthought. It’s generous but not excessive, lively without being overwhelming. For a breakfast that feels thoughtful, satisfying and just a bit different to the usual London offering, Kricket Shoreditch’s new Breakfast Thali makes a very strong case for becoming a weekend ritual. Address: 35-42 Charlotte Rd, London EC2A 3PB For more information click here .   Written by Enytha Peer   Photography courtesy of Rebecca Dickson / Kricket

Amsterdam captivates visitors with its maze of enchanting waterways, elegant canal houses adorned with ornate gables, and a vibrant art scene. Amsterdam offers charming cafés, leafy parks, boutique shops, and lively markets. Exploring the city on foot or by bicycle is both easy and rewarding and no visit is complete without a canal cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city from the water. While the gritty Red Light District draws many curious visitors, Amsterdam’s oldest quarter is only one small part of a city rich in culture, charm, and history. Beyond the city limits, the Dutch countryside unfolds in all its beauty. Picturesque towns such as Haarlem and Utrecht make for perfect day trips, inviting visitors to wander along cobblestone streets and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. For a quintessential Dutch experience, head to Zaanse Schans, a village dotted with traditional windmills.  I amsterdam City Card For our trip, we were gifted two I amsterdam City Cards, which we used over a 48-hour period. We picked them up at Amsterdam Centraal Station shortly after arriving from the airport. The staff at the I amsterdam City Card store gave us a friendly greeting, and we couldn’t help feeling giddy with excitement as we received our packs, complete with the physical cards, maps, and a magazine. It fealt like the card to the city and many fun adventures ahead. The I amsterdam City Card is an all-in-one pass that gives you free entry to more than 70 museums and major attractions, unlimited access to public transport, a complimentary canal cruise, free bike rental, and discounts at theatres and popular experiences like the Heineken Experience. Available in durations from 24 to 120 hours, the card is activated upon first use. Once activated, you can explore freely and save significantly on entrance fees. It offers excellent value for money,  especially if you take advantage of visiting many attractions. Walking tour with Who is Amsterdam - € 29.00 Wanting to experience as much as possible, we decided on booking a walking tour and what better way to get to know the city than through the eyes of a local?. The I amsterdam City Card includes a free spot on a guided walking tour, with the company ‘Who is Amsterdam’ our guide was brilliant in telling us the history of Amsterdam, sharing personal stories, local insights, and hidden corners that reveal the city’s true character. It’s such a brilliant and engaging way to understand what makes Amsterdam and its people, so wonderfully unique. Museums and galleries we enjoyed visiting:  I highly recommend checking online in advance to see everything included with the I amsterdam City Card and planning which museums and galleries you’d like to visit before your trip. It’s also helpful to map out which attractions are close to one another so you can make the most of your time and see as much as possible. We’ve listed our favourites below: Van Loon House Museum - €16.00 Step into a perfectly preserved 17th-century canal home once owned by a wealthy merchant family. The elegant interiors and garden reveal how Amsterdam’s elite once lived. The museum also regularly organises contemporary art exhibitions. Foam Photography Museum - €16.00   A vibrant space dedicated to contemporary photography. Foam’s rotating exhibitions showcase everything from classic portraiture to experimental visual art. (Across the canal from the Van Loon House Museum, so deffo worth doing after) . Canal Boat Museum - €9.50 Amsterdam is famous for its canals lined with houseboats, but most visitors only marvel at them from the outside. At this museum, you can walk into a fully furnished, authentic houseboat and see how people live on the water. The Rijksmuseum  - €25.00 The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s most popular museum, a national treasure dedicated to Dutch art and history. It’s vast, world-renowned, and attracts large crowds, so we recommend visiting as soon as it opens.  Anne Frank House - €16.00   Although the I amsterdam City Card does not include free entry, I highly recommend visiting the Anne Frank House. This remarkable museum and preserved hiding place honours the life and legacy of Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. You walk at your own pace with an audio guide that helps you really immerse yourself in Anne’s experience during that time.  It is one of the city’s most poignant and popular sites, be sure to book your ticket in advance. Exploring the city Go on a canal cruise  - €17.00   A canal cruise is one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s iconic waterways in all their beauty. Drifting along the canals, you’ll take in picturesque waterfronts, historic bridges, and charming houseboats. We opted for a guided tour, which gave us fascinating insight into the city’s history and daily life. It’s a fantastic way to admire Amsterdam’s unique architecture from a completely different perspective. Although some may say it is so touristic, it truly was one of our highlights!  Visit Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) A charming grid of boutique-lined streets in the Canal District. Browse designer shops, vintage stores, and cosy cafés, the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Visit NDSM Amsterdam Once a massive shipyard, NDSM is now one of Amsterdam’s coolest creative hubs. Think street art, quirky cafes, festivals, and artist studios inside old industrial warehouses, all with a raw, urban edge right by the water. It is easy to access, you can jump on the free ferry from the city centre and you are in NDSM in around 15 minutes.  Places to visit outside of Amsterdam:  If you have time to explore beyond the city centre, hop on a train to visit Muiderslot Castle. Located in the town of Muiden, this beautifully preserved 17th-century fortress is easily accessible by public transport and your I amsterdam card covers the trip. Holland is known of their impressive windmills, a short train ride away will take you to the iconic, windmill-filled village of Zaanse Schans,  a truly picturesque slice of Dutch history. Where to eat in Amsterdam You are spoilt for choice with the plethora of places to eat in Amsterdam, there is so much on offer, below are a few of our favourites.  Pluk  Situated in the heart of Nine Streets, this charming café has Instagram-ready interiors and serves up hearty, healthy breakfasts, all-day eggs and rich coffees, a great pit-stop for shoppers. Café Celia at Kimpton De Witt Located in the buzzing city centre, the restaurant’s bright and breezy style takes inspiration from California, with a mix of dishes to suit all tastes. We indulged in their tacos and fine wine, while they had the special Tuesday Taco offer. Gorgeous interiors and if you sit by the window, it’s a great way to people watch.  Recover  Recover makes eating super-healthy into a culinary art. Simple interiors, simple ingredients, and the most delicious grain bowls and protein treats you are ever going to taste. Sampurna Sampurna offers fresh, expertly spiced Indonesian cuisine.  Just a few steps from the iconic flower market. It is more on the pricier side, but so worth it, this was our last meal in Amsterdam before our flight back home and it felt like the perfect send off.  We had an incredible time in Amsterdam, we barely let our feet rest as we hopped from one attraction to the next. The I amsterdam City Card made exploring effortless and excellent value, allowing us to visit a range of museums, join a walking tour, enjoy a scenic canal cruise and hop on trams and trains for free, The only perk we didn’t use was the free bike rental, which is a fantastic way to experience the city. We were perfectly content walking and taking trams, but if you’re a confident cyclist, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try. If you’re a fast-paced sightseer eager to fit in as many museums and attractions as possible, this card is well worth considering. To decide whether it’s right for you, simply list the attractions you want to visit and add up the individual ticket prices. If the total exceeds 65 euros, (24 hours price) then the I amsterdam City Card will save you money, I must say it did feel nice going into each attraction and flashing our card at the entrance, making it a smoother and more enjoyable experience.  To find out more about the I amsterdam City Card and to book your ticket, click here. https://www.iamsterdam.com/en   Written by Nyla Sammons and Claire Bloom  Photography by Nyla Sammons

London's favourite winter tradition is back. Ice Rink Canary Wharf returns to Canada Square Park for 17 weeks of skating, open now and running until Sunday 22 February 2026. Skate across 875 square metres of pristine ice beneath the twinkling lights of Canary Wharf's iconic skyline. This year's illuminated transparent roof means the fun continues rain or shine, keeping skaters protected whilst maintaining those stunning views of the surrounding estate and grabbing the perfect selfie. You can take a break to nurse your bruises or warm up on the viewing terrace where Love Churros serves up classic churros, pancakes, and signature hot drinks rink-side. With over 300 restaurants, bars, and shops across five shopping malls just steps away, Ice Rink Canary Wharf is your one-stop destination for an unforgettable winter day out. You can also just watch the action from the Park Pavilion. The rink welcomes skaters from age 4 and all abilities, with 45-minute sessions running daily to 22 February 2026 (closed Christmas Day). Younger visitors can use penguin and snowman skate aids, and the rink is fully equipped for wheelchair users with complimentary carer tickets available upon request. To book tickets click here . Written by Claire Selby  Photography courtesy of Canary Wharf Group

A vast new food hall is arriving in London’s West End this December; Market Place Leicester Square. Transforming a landmark five storey building beside the Odeon cinema into one of the UK’s largest and most ambitious dining destinations, the new flagship will feature 16 independent kitchens and three bars. Showcasing global flavours and serving everything from fast-pour cocktails to pints with a view, beyond food and drink, Market Place Leicester Square will host a packed programme of live music, DJ sets, comedy nights and major sports screenings. It will also have spaces for private dining and hire, the perfect spot for celebrations and corporate gatherings. Once home to Raymond Blanc’s restaurant and later Chiquito, the building is located in the heart of London’s entertainment district, ideally placed to attract film fans, locals and visitors alike. Food stalls include Bread Ahead, Butchies, Club Mexicana and so much more! Opening December 2025, Market Place Leicester Square promises to be the group’s most exciting venue yet; a new social hub at the centre of the capital’s nightlife. Opening December 2025 Address: 20–21 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7JX Website: www.marketplaceuk.com Written by Jordan Crowley Photo’s Courtesy of Market Place

Leicester Square has its first-ever ice rink, and it’s ready for you this festive season! Underbelly has brought the magic to the heart of London’s West End with sparkling lights, music, and plenty of winter vibes.   Why is it so special you might ask? It’s the only rink in London where the sessions start every 15 minutes, and available for online booking or walk-ins - super easy! Whether you’re a bit of a pro or a first-timer, you’ll be skating around the iconic Shakespeare statue in no time. There’s also a Christmas market with tasty treats and gifts to keep the festive spirit going.   Tickets start at £14.50 for adults and £9.50 for kids, with family deals from £40. An optional donation will be added to support the Angel Child Fund at The Brain Tumour Charity, helping fund vital research. So don’t miss your chance to glide into the festive season and get to Leicester Square, the place to be this Christmas!   To book ticket click here . Written by Lorna Byrne Photo courtesy of Matt Alexander/PA Media Assignments

Running until the 4 th  January, Winter at Greenwich Peninsula has arrived at Peninsula Square, offering a festive winter experience with fun for the whole family. Sparkling with festive charm and family friendly fun, the pop up is filled with food and drink from seasonal stalls, set to the backdrop of twinkling lights. A Winter Carousel with beautifully hand-painted horses adds an extra hit of Christmassy fun, as well as a Teddy Bear Telephone Game, with the chance to win a cuddly prize. Whilst enjoying their pick from churros, bratwurst, crepes, donuts and warming drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate, guests can also have fun with a new vintage-style Newspaper Photo Booth, capturing and printing their own keepsake photo strip. Of course, a festive tree takes centre stage in Peninsula Square, the perfect spot for a seasonal snap!   The experience is free to visit and designed for all ages. Dates: Running until 4 th  January Address: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX For more information click here . Written by Jordan Crowley Photos courtesy of Greenwich Peninsula

The Fleet Street Quarter has transformed into a festive wonderland, perfect for a fun-filled family day out. This season, visitors of all ages can enjoy a brand-new Snoopy Sculpture Trail, created in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Peanuts™ . Scattered throughout the Quarter, families will discover twelve charming sculptures of Snoopy relaxing on his iconic red doghouse. Each one has been uniquely designed by a different artist, from Becky Smith to Fran Preston-Gannon, making every stop along the trail a delightful surprise. To make the adventure even more engaging, families can tune in to a playful audio guide narrated by Olaf Falafel. His storytelling brings each sculpture to life, adding humour and imagination to the experience as you wander from one snoopy to the next. With festive decorations all around and plenty of spots to pause for treats or photos, the Snoopy Sculpture Trail promises a memorable day out for families looking to explore, celebrate, and enjoy the magic of the season together. Find the full programme of free and low-cost festive events throughout November and December click here . Photography courtesy of David Parry PA Media Assignments.