Embrace your Christmas spirit with some festive frolicking in the capital!

If you’re looking to capture the Christmas spirit this winter, then London’s the place to go! Every year the British capital transforms itself into a festive haven, offering up a plethora of wintry activities to do, and a range of spectacular sights to see.

From outdoor skating rinks and magical Christmas markets to pantomimes and crazy races, London captures the yuletide spirit perfectly, making it an excellent destination for friends, families and romantic couples alike.

November sees the start of the Christmas celebrations, with many activities kicking off around the middle of the month. One of the most impressive sights to witness is the switching on of the Oxford Street Christmas lights. Indeed, illuminating the city, the dazzling display lasts until January and provides a great way to see London by night.

However, no trip to the city would be complete without visiting Trafalgar Square, where the famous Christmas tree resides. The tree is presented each year as a gift from the Norwegians, after the help given to them during the Second World War. Usually standing at over 20 metres high, the lights are switched on in the evening of the first Thursday in December.

Trafalgar Square also sees groups of carol singers performing traditional Christmas songs for a limited period in December. It is open for all to come and listen and is also a brilliant way to get into the festive spirit.

For some yuletide fun, it is definitely worth getting yourself along to Hyde Park, which undergoes an amazing winter wonderland makeover. In addition to a Giant Wheel and a selection of fun rides, it is also home to the biggest outdoor ice rink in the city. And, if you can’t face the hordes of shoppers in London’s shopping district, then the German Christmas Market is the perfect alternative.

The Great Christmas Pudding Race is another event not to be missed. Having run annually since 1980, up to 150 contestants dress up and race each other around Covent Garden piazza, all whilst balancing a Christmas pudding on a plate and dodging such obstacles as flour-filled balloons! Not only is it great fun to watch, but it also raises money for charity.

What could be better than rounding off your day with a trip to see a pantomime? This year is host to a variety of traditional tales, including Hansel and Gretel, The Snowman and the Twelve Days of Christmas. Brilliant for a fun-filled evening, where you can join in the revelry.

So, if you want to embrace the Christmas spirit this year, get yourself packed off to the capital. Not only is there a variety of wintry activities to partake in, but there are also a range of great hotels in London available to help you unwind and relax in, after a hard day of festive frolicking!

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.