Festive family activities are all over London in December like tinsel and lights generously hung on a tree by a toddler. From glittery crafts to magical wildlife moments to sky-high views with Santa, there are activities aplenty for all ages in the city this Christmas. Here are a few ideas for family fun this December in London…
The Magic of Christmas at ZSL London Zoo
The zoo is buzzing with holiday activities this month. Kids can become Keepers’ Little Helpers and prepare seasonal surprises for the animals. then watch as they enjoy their treats throughout the day at the ‘12 animals at Christmas’ talks. Take part in festive crafts with Mrs Claus, then cosy up on a giant beanbag and listen to a Christmas story or warm up watching your favourite Christmas movies at a free holiday film screenings. Pre book to meet Santa in his magical grotto (very limited availability) or join the VIP Santa Breakfast. There will also be chalets selling hot drinks and treats, as well as rides and face painting.
When: Until 24 Dec
Where: ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park
Ages: all
Cost: some activities included in zoo entry, others additional cost, see website
More info: website
RAF Museum Christmas Letters Home Trail
This holiday season families can take part in the Letters Home trail – with nine words to find across several huge hangars packed full of aircraft, it’s no easy task! This trail is inspired by the letters that were sent during the war from serving personnel. Women and men serving in the Armed Forces over the Christmas holidays have always written home to family, friends and loved ones with great fondness. In their letters they talk of the Christmases they experience when they are deployed, some are sad others quite funny! The museum has used the letters in their archives as inspiration and created a letter home. Families need to find the missing items around the museum and fill them in. A chocolatey prize awaits.
When: Until 5 Jan; 10am to 3pm
Where: RAF Museum
Ages: all
Cost: £3 per person
More info: website
The Shard’s Festive Family Morning
Celebrate the festive season at the highest viewing platform in London, in the capital’s tallest building! The Shard will be opening its doors early to welcome a limited number of families to this exclusive out-of-hours event. They’ll be unlimited hot drinks and juice (breakfast items for additional purchase), face painting and crafting. St Nick will be wandering about chatting with the children.
When: 21 Dec; exclusive access for event 8.30am-10am (stay as long as you like after event ends)
Where: The View from The Shard, London Bridge
Ages: all
Cost: £20 on Little Bird website; under 4s are free
More info: website
Our readers get an extra 10% off Little Bird’s promotion by entering the code MHSHARD
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Battersea Power Station Winter Village
Battersea Power Station has been transformed into a magical Winter Village, with festive lighting, Christmas trees, food and drink pop-ups, cosy alpine wooden huts and family activities. There’s a child-friendly synthetic ice rink with skate aids and London’s only riverside curling lanes! Family favourite, The Cat in the Hat is on stage at The Turbine Theatre. For gifts and food stroll along the River Walk Christmas Market.
When: Throughout the month, dates and times vary per activity
Where: Battersea Power Station
Ages: all
Cost: varies on activity
More info: website
Related: Christmas Markets in London
Black Beauty at the Southbank Centre
A children’s show retells the much-loved tale of a brave horse as you’ve never seen it before, for ages five and over. Saddle up for a story where loneliness gives way to hope, friends become heroes, and courage saves the day. Blending storytelling, music and puppetry, this vibrant re-telling of Black Beauty offers fun for fans of the book, lovers of the classic TV show and those brand-new to the tale.
When: 14 Dec – 5 Jan
Where: Southbank Centre, Purcell Room
Ages: 5+
Cost: £20 adult; £15 child
More info: website
Related: Holiday Family Theatre Guide
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London Transport Museum
As if buses and trains weren’t exciting enough – throughout the holiday season Santa will be at the London Transport Museum – either in his twinkling cosy seating corner or larking about in the museum. There’s also storytime and singing sessions for the little ones, and an opportunity to make transport themed bunting and decorations to take home.
When: Until 5 Jan
Where: London Transport Museum
Ages: all
Cost: free with entry
More info: website
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