During the holiday season, London, England, transforms itself into something straight out of a Christmas story. From numerous ice skating rinks to food festivals and winter markets, there is truly something for everyone in this treasured European city. What are some of the best things to check out during this year's holiday season in London?Check out these five amazing winter themed attractions when you visit London this winter! (Photo "Winter Wonderland" by irum)
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
During the Christmas season, Hyde Park is transformed into the epicenter of all things winter. Complete with ice rink, Christmas market, an ice "kingdom," and full of as many holiday themed treats as you can eat, this annual festival is a must for all visitors heading into London. 2014's Winter Wonderland festival begins on November 21st and ends on January 4th, 2015. (Photo by C.M.FRIESE Photography)Caroling and the Giant Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
If you're looking to find the best Christmas tree in London, be sure to head to Trafalgar Square. Every year a massive Norwegian spruce tree is on display as a token of thanks for England's help during WWII. The lighting ceremony takes place on the first Thursday in December and the tree is a meeting point for many caroling groups in the city during the holidays.
Attend Christmas Mass at Westminster Abbey
No matter your religion, the Christmas Mass at Westminster Abbey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth checking out. After all, there aren't too many 1,000 year old cathedrals that you can say you've sung a Christmas carol at! The annual service of lessons and carols begin at 4pm on Christmas Eve, and the midnight mass starts at 11:30pm and lasts for roughly 90 minutes. Free tickets are required for both.
For those attending the midnight mass service, keep in mind that the tube will be closed after the service has ended.
Ice Skating at the Tower of London
For the ice skating ambiance, look no further than the Tower of London. This iconic and historical site provides a wonderful backdrop for one of the city's best Christmas treats. Open from mid-November to early-January, the ice skating rink at the Tower of London offers skating during the day as well as a unique experience at night when the castle is lit up! (Photo by Duncan)
Taste of London Winter at Tobacco Dock
If you consider yourself a foodie, taking in the annual Taste of London Winter festival should be number one on your list. With over 200 exhibitors, demonstrations from celebrity chefs, and a whole lot more, you won't be walking away hungry. Taste of London can be found at the Tobacco Dock on November 20th to 23rd this year.
Standard tickets range from 19.50 GBP to 23.50 GBP and VIP tickets start at 59.00 GBP.
Where to Stay in London For the Festivities
Since the entire city of London is bustling with activity during the Christmas season, you will likely find yourself traveling around quite a bit to take it all in (although, let's be honest here, you'll do that no matter what season you visit this city in!). In order to not waste your entire day sitting on the tube or walking from attraction to attraction, choosing a prime hotel spot is a must.
Two great hotels to check out during your stay in London include the Holiday Inn Kensington Forum and the Holiday Inn Mayfair as they are located right in the middle of it all. Wanting to make the Winter Wonderland celebration your priority? Holiday Inn at Mayfair is within walking distance and requires no tube transfer at all. Looking for a hotel that can reach all of the activities without transfers? Holiday Inn Kensington Forum's metro stop will get you to all of them!
