Christmas is around the corner and the school holidays are about to begin. Now is the perfect time to kick off festivities, so get your children into the seasonal spirit with these fun, family friendly activities designed for all ages.
Giggles at the panto
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Christmas in London is incomplete without an evening of belly laughs at the panto. The Lyric theatre in Hammersmith offers up some of the most entertaining shows each year and this season is no exception, as Aladdin and friends fly into town on their trusty magic carpet. The super cast include Andre Antonio as the quick-witted Aladdin, Jodie Jacobs as the magical genie and the reliably hilarious Emmanuel Akwafo returning as the meddling Widow Twerkey. Expect a hip, fun-packed classic tale with a modern twist. Other shows to check out include Dick Whittington and his Cat over at The Hackney Empire and Robin Hood at The Palladium, starring panto royalty Julian Clary.
King Street, W6 0QL, lyric.co.uk
Family friendly dining in Coppa Club’s Igloos
Nestled by the river with brilliant views of Tower Bridge, Coppa Club’s iconic igloos are each a special spot for a festive family meal. Kids can enjoy dishes such as cheesy linguine and pizza, while grown-ups and teens might indulge in winter comfort food, including tartiflette. There’s also a festive menu on offer for adults and kids, featuring turkey and all the trimmings. With alpine-inspired décor, twinkling fairy lights and snug blankets, these heated igloos are perfect for groups of four to 10.
Lower Thames Street, EC3R 6AH, coppaclub.co.uk/tower
Fun and learning at Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas
Award-winning kids’ presenter Maddie Moate debuts her 60-minute show at the Apollo Theatre in Shaftesbury Avenue. Inspired by her popular book, A Very Curious Christmas, the show is packed with fascinating facts related to the season. Join Maddie on a seasonal STEM adventure as she delves into the science of winter, reveals the secrets behind Christmas traditions, and answers some of the most curious Christmassy questions. Discover where snow comes from, how crackers make their bang and why brussels sprouts have a unique effect on our digestive system. Recommended for ages 4 and over, this is an educational and entertaining experience in one.
Until January 4. Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EZ, theapollotheatre.co.uk
Immerse yourself in The Muppet Christmas Carol Live in Concert
Enjoy that much loved seasonal movie, The Muppet Christmas Carol in style, with a live orchestra bringing its musical score to life on December 14. Watch Kermit the Frog step into the role of the kind-hearted Bob Cratchit alongside Michael Caine’s curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge. Gonzo takes on the part of Charles Dickens himself, narrating the tale with hilarious help from Rizzo the Rat. Whether you’re revisiting the movie or introducing your little ones to this classic, this live concert experience at Hammersmith’s Eventim Apollo will be sure to bring the magic of the season to life.
On December 14. 45 Queen Caroline St, W6 9QH, eventimapollo.com
Pick up treats at The Landmark’s Christmas cake shop
Returning for its second year, this delightful pop-up gingerbread house is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Set up at the north entrance of The Landmark hotel, just across the road from Marylebone Station, it’s the perfect pit stop for those exploring the capital. The charming take-away cake shop will be serving up treats like the signature “broissants” (brioche meets croissant), chocolate bars and yule logs. The gingerbread house also makes for the perfect Instagram-worthy spot to snap some festive family memories.
Until January 5. 222 Marylebone Rd, NW1 6JQ, landmarklondon.co.uk
Pan at Chickenshed: watch a classic tale reimagined
The Chickenshed theatre in Southgate, north London has a stellar reputation for putting on wonderful shows with a large, inclusive, multi-talented cast of all ages and abilities. This year’s festive production, Pan, marks the theatre’s 50th anniversary and is a fun reimagining of J.M Barrie’s much-loved Christmas classic, Peter Pan. There’s a core cast of eighteen who pop-up in multiple roles, including Peter played by Demar Lambert, and there’s a charismatic Captain Hook performed by Jonny Morton. It’s creative, entertaining and a truly wholesome theatrical experience for all ages, as the boy who never grows up takes the Darling children on a magical adventure to Neverland. The age recommendation for this show is five plus.
Until January 11. 290 Chase Side, N14 4PE, chickenshed.org.uk
Create your own Christmas wreath at Shepherds Bush Market
Give your kids a fun, hands-on activity that not only teaches them a new craft but also adds to your family’s Christmas decorations. Shepherd’s Bush Market is spreading seasonal cheer with engaging workshops, including wreath making. In this 90-minute session, children can create their own masterpiece, decorating a wreath base with colourful ornaments, dried fruit and other festive extras. While you’re there, check out the free wrapping paper workshop and the Christmas market to stock up on gifts.
Various dates. Market, W12 8DF, classbento.co.uk, shepherdsbushmarket.org
Laugh out loud at Father Christmas Needs A Wee!
Enjoy a hilarious and captivating show with Father Christmas Needs A Wee, a 90-minute adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much-loved book. Join Santa on Christmas Eve as he visits houses and nibbles on a variety of treats and gulps on gallons of milk. However, with all those goodies, Santa finds himself needing the toilet so badly that he forgets to deliver some presents. Showing at the Arts Theatre in the heart of Covent Garden, this lively spectacle is a great choice for preschool aged children with catchy songs, silly humour, interactive elements and there are a few adult jokes thrown in too.
December 7-23. Great Newport Street, WD2H 7JB, artstheatrewestend.co.uk
Indulge with a festive afternoon tea
The Langham’s Palm Court has been serving afternoon tea to well-heeled Londoners since the Victorian era. This Christmas, the hotel has teamed up with Britain’s beloved toy store, Hamleys to create an afternoon tea to delight kids aged 12 and under. Set to the festive melodies of the resident pianist (who also takes requests), kids can tuck into toy-shaped patisseries such as the chocolate mousse-filled Hamleys bear and a gift-shaped sponge with caramelised white chocolate.
1C Portland Place, W1B 1JA, langhamhotels.com
Acrobatics and songs from The Greatest Showman at Come Alive!
Fans of The Greatest Showman will want to step right up for this spectacle featuring songs from the hit movie and a series of awe-inspiring international circus acts. Ideal for children aged six and above, the 100-minute show includes a storyline inspired by the movie, gravity defying-performers and popular tunes by Pasek and Paul including This Is Me, Rewrite the Stars, A Million Dreams and The Greatest Show. It includes an interactive experience where ticket holders are invited to explore the world of classic circus performers before taking their seats and enjoying the show.
Until March 30. Empress Place, SW6 1TT, comealiveshow.com
Hop on The Polar Express train ride from London Euston
Take your kids on a magical journey filled with festive fun and surprises with The Polar Express train ride. Inspired by the hit 2004 movie, where a boy embarks on a train ride to the North Pole and discovers the true spirit of Christmas, this officially-licensed experience brings the story to life. During the 90-minute journey, you'll be immersed in the sights, sounds and wonder of this timeless tale. Along the way, enjoy special visits from characters, including Santa Claus himself. Expect hot chocolate, cookies and a magical gift to make the experience even more enchanting.
From December 6 to December 23. Euston Road, NW1 2RT, londonthepolarexpressride.com
Fill your boots at the Blondies Kitchen Christmas cookie pick ’n’ mix
If you have a cookie monster or two at home, take them down to the Blondies Kitchen’s festive pop-up at Brityard on Regent Street. For £39.99, you can fill your box with as many cookies as you can fit, as long as the lid closes. Pick from a variety of flavours including classic chocolate chip to matcha. Each entry includes a box weighing approximately 1kg, making it the perfect treat to share with the family.
Various dates, 310-312 Regent Street, W1B 3AU, tickettailor.com
Enjoy Disney On Ice at the O2 Arena
Disney lovers, get your mouse ears ready as Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures. This thrilling show features both new and classic stories, world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and of course lots of popular anthems. Look out for popular characters from Disney and Pixar adventures including Mary Poppins Returns, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, The Lion King, Aladdin, Moana and Frozen. From exploring Victorian London’s rooftops with Mary Poppins to the sun-soaked island of Motunui with Moana, to the Pride Lands with Simba, it’s sure to delight little ones.
Until January 5. Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX, disneyonice.co.uk
