Christmas on the Southbank: What to See & Do

Christmas on the Southbank: What to See & Do

Christmas on the Southbank: What to See & Do

There’s no better place to celebrate Christmas than in London - you could call me biased, but it’s true! With an array of things to do, eat, drink and celebrate on each corner, the city truly embraces the Christmas spirit. In true festive style, the whole of London is out in full force to celebrate this joyous time of year; but the question is - where is the best place to celebrate? Well, the Southbank may just top your list once you’ve finished reading our rundown…

Southbank centre with Christmas lights outside
The Christmas lights are up and the mulled wine is out

Southbank Centre Winter Festival

8th Nov – 5th Jan

A fairground ride all lit up at night
Come and explore the wonders of Southbank's winter market

If there is one thing that the Southbank is known for around this time of year, it’s the Winter Festival. With family fun activities and outstanding food, get involved in all things Christmas this year at this famous festival. Whether you’re a foodie or Christmas fanatic, Southbank Centre Winter Festival offers something for everyone. The Circus 1903 is back and better than ever, introducing their new act – The Wheel of Death; get ready for a night of jaw-dropping acts. Explore the handmade gifts and trinkets on offer and you might just find yourself a special little Christmas present.

Located just a 20 minute walk away from the Southbank, you’ll find this fabulous Still Life Southwark apartment. With beautiful furnishings and a stunning view of London to match, these apartments are perfect for enjoying Southbank this Christmas.

Southbank Winter Food Market: Christmas Special

Throughout December

A steaka dn burgers shack at the southbank food market
Some of the most delicious cuisine in London is waiting to be tasted...

With mouth-wateringly good food, there is no place like the Southbank Winter market this Christmas. The Southbank Winter Market is open every day; so get ready to taste some of the best food in London. With great dishes all reasonably priced, you can always count on the Southbank Food market to provide you with a fantastic meal or festive drink. Whether you have a sweet tooth or a love of spicier food, there is a stall for everyone!  

Coca- Cola London Eye

The London Eye lit up at night, blue and red colours
The Christmas lights are up and the London Eye Christmas experience is ready!

A tasting adventure unlike any other from the renowned Hotel Chocolat is coming to the London Eye. Get ready to indulge in some of the best chocolate around while viewing the breathtaking scenery of the city. Hotel Chocolat is hosting a tasting session every Saturday and Sunday at selected times to give you the experience to remember in London. As one of the city’s most iconic monuments, why not celebrate Christmas with a view of the city – and everyone knows Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a bit of chocolate…

The Old Vic

A view of The Old Vic lit up at dusk
lose yourself in the magic of the theatre this Christmas

If there is one place that’ll truly put you in the Christmas spirit, it’s the atmospheric Old Vic Theatre. Hosting a traditional Christmas favourite, A Christmas Carol, you’ll feel the festive spirit with a night on the Southbank here. With the fabulous Peterson Joseph as Ebenezer Scrooge, you’re in for a treat during this magical night. Just don’t expect to see a dry eye in the house…

Located just around the corner from the Old Vic and the Southwark tube station sits the Charles Hope Waterloo Apartments. With modern décor, these stylish apartments are made for London lovers and explorers.

BFI Southbank – BFI Christmas, Scrooge

20th -22nd December

View of BFI Southbank and sign
Get ready for a Christmas throwback at BFI Southbank

If you’ve not quite had enough of Charles Dickens' 'greatest success', why not head on down to BFI Southbank? If there is one film to get you in the Christmas spirit it’s definitely Scrooge! BFI Southbank is showing the 1951 version of the Charles Dickens classic. From the 20th – 22nd, there will be three showings of the Christmas tale, an occasion not to be missed! As Scrooge travels through time to his future, take a step back in time and enjoy this magical Christmas classic.

Skylon Restaurant and bar

Skylon Restaurant, Royal Festival Hall, London SE1 8XX

A view of the Southbank winter market and centre
A view of the Southbank unlike any other

While enjoying a panoramic view of London and the river Thames, why not enjoy some traditional favourites during the festive period. If you fancy a roast with a view, then head on over to Skylon on the Southbank! With one of the best views of the Thames around, why not accompany it with a decadent Sunday roast?

New Year’s Eve Spectacular at Southbank Centre

View on the London Eye on the Thames with fireworks all around
New Years on the Southbank is the event of the year

This year on the 31st of December get ready for a night unlike any other. A New Year’s Spectacular at the Southbank Centre!

The time has come to say farewell to 2019 and welcome 2020! Celebrate in style at Southbank this year and enjoy the most exciting spot along the Thames. The 31st of December is a time to celebrate the past and get excited about the future. Come along to the Southbank centre to experience some of the best fireworks in London, and make the most of getting close to the London Eye display.

This Native Serviced apartment is in a prime location for accessing all of Southbank’s top events. Located down the road from the National Theatre and Southwark tube station, staying in the Native Waterloo Apartment keeps you well connected to the Southbank. With a modern and stylish interior, you can enjoy the comfort and aesthetics of the apartment all in one.

Southbank Book Market

Southbank book market during the winter
Find something unique at the Southbank book market

Open every day from 10 am - 7 pm, there is nothing better than a stroll down the Southbank with a stop off to explore a collection of vintage books. Located under the Waterloo Bridge, the Southbank book market is a perfect destination at the end of a walk down Southbank.

On a crisp winter morning, enjoying the atmosphere of Southbank offers many things to do and see during the winter period. As one of the main banksides that hold many attractions, why not try something different and attend one of Southbank’s great events this festive season?


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