It’s a common complaint: you’re busy working in the run up to Christmas, so as the day approaches, that Christmassy feeling still hasn’t quite kicked in.
Here are three ideas for a rapid, full-on immersion into the season.
THE SOUTH BANK WINTER FESTIVAL
The organisers say that this is their biggest and best yet: an epic Christmas market, with an array of festive aromas, flavours, sights, sounds and of course gifts. And all against the backdrop of the capital, lit, decorated and festooned for the season. It will be worth it for the location alone.
When: From now until Christmas Eve
Where: The South Bank
Tube: Waterloo
Information: www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/festivals-series/winter-festival
WESTMINSTER ABBEY: CAROLS AND MIDNIGHT MASS
Think of the Abbey as Christmas Central: an oasis of calm and a world away from the seasonal scrum outside.
With the possible exception of King’s College in Cambridge, nowhere celebrates Christmas more exquisitely, with choirs, carols and readings echoing around the stone of the Abbey, as they for hundreds of years.
Their series of Christmas concerts and services attracts over 12,000 people, and you may need to hunt for (free) tickets. If you’re unlucky, it’s still a magical time just to visit the Abbey and drink in the atmosphere.
When: From now until Christmas Eve
Where: Westminster Abbey, Dean's Yard, Westminster, SW1P 3PA
Tube: Westminster
Information: www.westminster-abbey.org
THE PETER PAN CUP, THE SERPENTINE, HYDE PARK
This is one of those eccentric English traditions that should be witnessed at least once in your lifetime.
Members of the Serpentine Swimming Club have been plunging into the icy waters of the boating lake every Christmas Day since 1864. Spectators are welcome and it’s all free, but sadly only club members may leap into the sub-zero waters (we can feel your disappointment).
In 2010, it was so cold they cancelled it; even so, some insisted on chiselling through the ice, to lower themselves into the numbness below. Long live the British eccentric.
When: Christmas Day, 9am
Where: Serpentine Boating Lake, The Boat House, Hyde Park, Serpentine Road, London W2 2UH
Information: www.serpentineswimmingclub.com
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