MANNER travel ENJOY A WINTRY WEEKEND IN LONDON

London is always fun at any time of the year but it’s always extra magical at Christmas. If you’re thinking of visiting London this winter, we’ve put together a handy guide of things to do to make your trip more memorable.

Things To Do

From shopping and dining to exploring and sight-seeing, there's plenty to do in London to keep you entertained.

Christmas Shopping

Whether you’re looking for designer clothing, fun souvenirs or the perfect gift, there’s a wealth of shopping to enjoy. One day you could be browsing London markets for unique items, antiques and specialist food; the next you could be exploring famous London department stores for the latest fashion and home wares or enjoying retail therapy under one roof in the top shopping centres in London.

Skate at Somerset House in partnership with Fortnum & Mason Glide on one of London’s most beautiful outdoor ice rinks. Set against the stunning neoclassical facade, this popular icy experience is open all day and well into the evening. After your session, shop for gifts and goodies at Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade, and warm up with food and drinks in Fortnum’s Lodge.

The Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House

Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s famous score as the enchanting world of The Nutcracker is brought to life at the Royal Opera House. Expect breath-taking sets inspired by the classic Victorian Christmas and sparkling stage effects in Peter Wright's spectacular production, performed by The Royal Ballet.

Southbank Centre Christmas market

See Southbank Centre transformed into a festive wonderland for winter, the art centre's annual winter festival along the Thames. Enjoy a packed programme of free and ticketed events, including a Christmas market, festive shows and family entertainment. Over the Christmas and New Year's Eve season, the riverside area glows with glittering lights, festive decorations and a huge Christmas tree.

Wine And Dine

Where to start? London has an incredible mix of bars, pubs, cafés and restaurants, and let’s face it, you’ll never get a chance to experience them all. Start by working out what you do and don’t like – for example, if you’re not a big drinker, give the pubs a miss, if you’re not too fussed what you eat, leave the high-end restaurants for another visit.

Where To Stay

Nestled at the end of a tree-lined courtyard in the heart of Westminster, St. Ermin’s, an independent four-star deluxe hotel, offers guests a relaxing environment where you can unwind and be yourself. With most of London’s top historical attractions on the doorstep and its close proximity to St. James’s and Victoria stations; St. Ermin’s is the ideal destination for visitors looking for a stylish and convenient hotel. When you’re not out exploring, relax at the hotel’s stunning Caxton Bar and enjoy one of their signature flights which consists of three complementary glasses of either wine or whisky designed to give guests the chance to compare, contrast and discover new flavours or enjoy old favourites. 