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People crowded in Winter Wonderland near Thistle Hotels

Fun family winter activities

Christmas is the time when London becomes a city of sensory experiences and a huge spectrum of sights to see, scents to smell, sounds to hear and treats to taste. 

London has an endless list of entertainment to offer, so wrap up warm and tour the city’s most spectacular sights.  

People in Christmas Market Leicester Square near Thistle Hotels

Christmas at Leicester Square

Leicester Square has been transformed this winter into a traditional Christmas market with stalls bursting with gifts, food and drink. Step inside the spectacular 1920's Spiegeltent for a jaw-dropping show by La Clique, a combination of circus and cabaret.

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People in Winter Wonderland Ice Rink near Thistle Hotels

Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park

From giant ice slides to a portable rollercoaster and a massive Ferris wheel, ice-skating to live music, a magical ice kingdom, spectacular circus shows and more. Create your own ice sculpture or visit Santa in his Grotto. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained, with rides suitable for younger children too. 

You'll find a 3-course dinner pop-up, plus plenty of street food kiosks, and of course the fantastic Christmas Bavarian market where you can enjoy seasonal fare and shop for unique gifts.

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A colorful parade in Carnaby Streets near Thistle Hotels

Carnaby Christmas lights

Carnaby Street has always been colourful. This year, the Carnaby Kaleidoscope, is something different and quite spectacular. Expect more than 600 3D and 2D butterflies fluttering around the area, all hand-decorated with shining wings and eye-popping neon patterns, symbolising rebirth, change and hope. The installation is in collaboration with Choose Love, in support of international refugees, in particular those from Afghanistan. 

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A woman in a white dress holding a nutcracker at Thistle Hotels

English national ballet Nutcracker at the London Coliseum

A wonderful treat for the family, the unforgettable Nutcracker ballet is brought to life with over 100 dancers and musicians playing Tchaikovsky’s popular score live. Delightful choreography and a classic story make this a perfect Christmas family tradition.

Showing from 16 December to 8 January 2022. 

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