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The ‘NutCracker’ and ‘Carols by Candlelight’ Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without ‘The Nutcracker’ , Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet composition. Join young Clara’s magical night of dancing toy soldiers, sugar plum fairies and the growing Christmas tree at the Royal Opera House or any other production by the English National Ballet. With the ballet group celebrating their 120th anniversary, this makes it the perfect time to experience this delight. If this doesn’t get you in the festive mood, the Carols at the Royal Albert Hall unquestionably will. The Mozart Festival Orchestra will perform traditional Carols in dazzling Victorian costumes, singing all your favourites from “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to “Silent Night”. Check out the Pantos! Pantomime (commonly known as ‘Panto’) is as much an ingredient of the English Christmas ritual as Turkeys and Christmas trees are. Characteristically based on fairy tales, they date back to the 1800’s. Traditional ‘pantos’ include comedy, magic, singing and dancing with the really fun part being the crowd participation. No panto would be complete without the crowd shouting “behind you” or “oh no you’re not”. Just some of the pantos you can pick from include ‘Peter Pan’ at the Richmond Theatre, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, ‘Cinderella’ at The Shaw Theatre, Aladdin at The O2 Theatre and many more to choose from scattered across London. Indulge in the quintessential British traditions The High tea is one of the most quintessential British traditions. The hiatus for afternoon teas became quite fashionable in the 1880’s when the high society ladies would change into their long gowns, hats and gloves to be served tea in their living room around 4pm. I don’t suggest donning the garb (that would just be odd!). I do highly recommend though, trying out the Devonshire Cream Tea. It comes with tea or coffee, sandwiches without the crust and scones, jam and clotted cream. Try not to have a full blown row about which comes first, the jam or the cream nor whether a scone is pronounced “sc-on” or “sc-owe-n”. You can leave that to the locals. They still cannot decide this themselves all these year’s later!. For places to experience the tradition this holiday season, try out Claridges, The Dorchester, The Ritz, The Savoy or Harrods. You will be expected to dress smartly and maybe even put on a tie but then again, when in England, do as the English do (or at least how they used to). Christmas Markets Feel the Holiday vibes with the locals and visit the Christmas markets. Try the St Marylebone Parish Church, ‘Cabbages and Frock’ market. On the contrary to what the name suggests. you can access an array of designer goodies ranging from Italian cashmere to cupcakes set in beautiful surroundings. In addition to the traditional Real Food Christmas market, the Southbank has the famous German Christmas market that is a personal favourite of mine. I can’t wait to try the Glühwein (mulled wine), Bratwurst (German sausages) and ginger bread sold from the alluring German-style wooden huts alongside the river (between the Southbank and London bridge). Winter Wonderland Indeed! This is quite a new annual spectacle in Hyde Park but has quickly become an unmissable fixture during the festive season. Glide through one of the largest ice rinks in London set around the Victorian bandstand lit with 100,000 lights. The experience doesn’t end there. The ‘Cirque Beserk’ is a modern-day circus with all the thrills of high wires, knife-throwing, fire and unique characters. Add a dash of luxury by taking advantage of the private VIP boxes with its luxury bubbly. Enter the Magical Ice Kingdom and surround yourself with a breath-taking experience made out of over 200 tons of ice and snow. Meet Santa himself at his workshop with his hard working elves! Or take a ride on the Santa Express. A perfect treat for the little (and big) ones with plenty of bonus points for the parents! I wanted to save my favourite for last. The Giant Observation Wheel gives you the most stunning view of the vicinity. Infuse a little romance if you are with your loved one or even if you are not! Share a bottle of champagne or more as you soar 60 metres into the sky. Do take a breather and enjoy the hundreds of stalls displaying clothes, handicraft, accessories and scrumptious eateries, during your stroll through Hyde Park. Tip: Plan and book your Christmas holidays in advance to avoid last minute disappointment of unavailability and steeper rates of tickets and accommodations. Try Central London Serviced Apartments at http://www.citybreakrentals.com
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Christmas, London, Things to do, Holidays, Travel, Serviced apartments,
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