Giles Guide: Magical Festive Activities in London 2024

As London transforms into a winter wonderland, the city comes alive with spectacular shows, seasonal treats, and magical experiences around every corner. From theatrical delights to festive feasts, here's your ultimate guide to experiencing London at its most enchanting!

Theatrical Magic & Musical Delights

Classic Christmas Tales

A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic

Matthew Warchus' Tony Award-winning production fills the historic auditorium with festive cheer, mince pies, and enchanting music. This beloved adaptation promises to convert even the most determined Scrooge to the Christmas spirit with its unique immersive staging.

Location: The Old Vic Theatre, The Cut, SE1 8NB

Dates: 9th November 2024 – 4th January 2025

Age Guidance: 8+

Price: £13-£90 (varies by peak/off-peak)

Website: The Old Vic

The Nutcracker at Royal Albert Hall

Experience the magic of this beloved Christmas ballet in one of London's most prestigious venues. This enchanting production combines beautiful dance with groundbreaking projections, all set to Tchaikovsky's magnificent score performed live.

Location: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP

Dates: 29th-31st December 2024

Time: Various performances

Price: £30-£147

Website: Royal Albert Hall

Evening Entertainment

La Clique at Leicester Square

Step inside the magnificent Spiegeltent for London's most spectacular variety show. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this Olivier Award-winning production combines daring acrobatics, stunning stunts, and raucous comedy.

Location: Leicester Square Spiegeltent

Dates: 6th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: Evening performances (La Clique Lates at 9:30pm Fridays and Saturdays)

Price: From £26.50

Age Guidance: Adults only

Website: La Clique

Traditional Carol Services

Experience the magic of seasonal music at London's most prestigious venues:

• Royal Albert Hall: 3rd December 2024- 31st December 2024
• Barbican: 7th December 2024- 1st January 2025
• Westminster Abbey: 1st December 2024 – 6th January 2025

Festive Food & Drink Experiences

A Christmas Feast with Charles Dickens

Step back in time to Victorian London for an extraordinary evening as Charles Dickens' guest of honor. Experience a magical night of storytelling, feasting, and Yuletide fantasy as the great author unveils a ghostly Christmas tale. This immersive dining experience includes a sumptuous three-course feast with various ticket options to suit your preferred level of luxury.

Location: The Lost Estate, 7-9 Beaumont Avenue, W14 9LP

Dates: 1st November 2024 – 12th January 2025

Price:

• Classic Dining from £97pp
• Charlie's Circle from £123pp
• Charlie's Couples from £142pp
• Charlie's Circle "Royale" from £174pp

Website: The Lost Estate

Humbug at The Old Truman Brewery

London's most Christmassy bar returns with live performances, sing-alongs, and festive games in Santa's secret hideout. Enjoy creative cocktails from the 'Naughty or Nice' menu while sampling street food favourites.

Location: The Truman Brewery, Boiler House, 152 Brick Lane, E1 6RU

Dates: Until 31st  December 2024

Website: Humbug Christmas

The Chalet at Somerset House

Escape to a cosy Swiss-inspired haven alongside the ice rink. Warm up with authentic fondue made with British cheese, served with bread, potatoes, and pickles, perfectly paired with mulled wine.

Location: Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA

Dates: Until 31st December 2024; Closed on Christmas

Website: Somerset House

Gelupo's Alpine Christmas

Experience an Italian twist on festive treats with seasonal gelato flavours including gingerbread and panforte. Try the unique 'chocolate affogato' or warm up with Italian mulled wine and spiked hot chocolates.

Location: 7 Archer Street, W1D 7AU

Dates: 13th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Website: Gelupo

Make It Magical with St Giles London Hotel

Transform your London adventure into an unforgettable festive experience with our special Christmas offer! Book your stay using promo code MERRY to enjoy:

• An overnight stay in our comfortable guest rooms
• Traditional Christmas lunch at Cucina (25th December 2024)
• 20% off our Best Available Rate
• Free & Fast WiFi

This magical offer is available for stays from 15th December – 29th December 2024. Available to book now.

Book your festive escape today and create magical memories in London this Christmas. Remember to secure your Christmas Day lunch reservation at Cucina. Advance booking is required for the special menu on December 25th 2024.

Tips for Your Festive Visit

• Book shows and special dining experiences well in advance

• Check individual venue websites for updated opening times during the holiday period

• Consider weekday visits for quieter experiences

• Ask our friendly staff for recommendations and help with bookings

• Remember to make your Cucina Christmas lunch reservation when booking your stay

Note: Remember to book early, as our festive-season rooms and Christmas Day lunch are highly popular. Terms and conditions apply—see our website for full details.