Food & Drink

Fun Things to Do This Christmas in London

By Swingers

If you're planning a Christmas rendezvous with friends or family and are lost for ideas, we've put together a list to keep you inspired!

Fun Things to Do This Christmas in London

As the holiday season approaches, you can find your social calendar starting to brim with festive fervour. If you’re planning a Christmas rendezvous with friends or family and are lost for ideas, we’ve put together a handy list to rescue you from the doldrums and keep you inspired during this merry season!

Get into the competitive spirit at Swingers

man celebrating mini golf

 

Grab a putter and challenge your friends to a game of mini golf like no other. Our elegant 1920s themed courses provide a fun format for some friendly competition, and when you’re finished, you and your friends can enjoy some delicious street food and an expertly crafted cocktail (or two). This Christmas, our Swingers Central London venues have transformed into magical winter havens, adorned with snow-covered Christmas trees and festive décor, complete with festive tunes spun by top DJs.

Our indoor courses at Swingers West End are ideal for escaping the miserable winter weather. Every Sunday we’ll be offering Christmas Bottomless Brunch where you can enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, a round of crazy golf, seasonal street food, dessert and a reserved area for one hour. 

Visit a Christmas Market

Apple Market Covent Garden Christmas

There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to get you into the festive spirit! Imagine the tantalising scent of mulled wine as you hunt for unique artisanal gifts whilst savouring locally sourced treats.
London boasts a number of Christmas market options – from those exclusive to the festive season, such as Southbank and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, to more permanent fixtures such as Spitalfields and Covent Garden market. With intimate stalls meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the Christmas season, these markets offer an enchanting atmosphere that far surpasses your typical shopping centre experience. 

Try a wintery sport

ice skating London

What other time throughout the year are you likely to turn your hand to ice skating or curling than during the lead up to Christmas? Whether you’re a complete beginner, or seasoned pro, many locations around London can accommodate a variety of skills. 

Get your skates on and glide gracefully (or cling on to your friends) at an ice rink – Battersea Power Station’s “Glide” boasts three interconnected rinks with a backdrop of the iconic venue’s chimneys. Canary Wharf’s rink is London’s longest running seasonal ice rink, and is conveniently under cover to ensure a stellar experience sheltered from London’s wintery weather.

If curling strikes your fancy, discover a nostalgic ’90s-themed curling escapade at King’s Cross’ Coal Drops Yard, or opt for a more classic experience at Southbank’s The Curling Club.

Catch up over Christmas dinner and drinks

Christmas dinner

Credit: Lid & Ladle

For an intimate catch up, consider booking your local pub for a traditional Christmas roast – an ideal choice for a cosy gathering. Stay local if you’re wanting to keep it casual, or opt for a pub renowned for its Christmassy atmosphere, like The Churchill Arms. It’s the perfect backdrop for swapping secret Santa gifts and prepping your taste buds for the festive feast that awaits!

Stock up on Christmas presents

Christmas Presents

Credit: Make it Ealing

London is a prime location for Christmas shopping. Beyond iconic spots like Oxford Street and Covent Garden, the city flaunts a number of shopping centres that cater to every taste. 

Westfield shopping centre has two locations across London – one in Stratford City and one in Shepherd’s bush. Both locations are exactly what you’d expect from a giant shopping centre, with hundreds of shops to browse between you’re guaranteed to be able to complete all your Christmas shopping in this one place.

Battersea Power Station first opened its doors as a newly refurbished shopping centre in 2022, and as a result the shopping experience is that of luxury. With references to the old design of the building throughout, walk through history as you browse for festive goodies. You can even travel up one of the iconic venue’s chimneys and gaze at the view – likely to look extra festive in the darker winter months.

Near King’s Cross, Coal Drops Yard offers a unique blend of independent and established brands to choose from. Opt for vintage finds that offer an alternative to fast fashion outlets, ideal for sourcing unique Christmas gifts not readily available elsewhere. Plus, find familiar names like Aesop and Nike if you’re catering to specific wish lists. Just remember your coat for the outdoor stroll between shops!

Dive into the dazzling city lights
Christmas lights Oxford Street

If your wallet’s feeling the holiday pinch post-present splurges and you’re looking for some cheaper options, why not explore the dazzling Christmas lights and festive displays that the city has to offer? Big hitters are Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street. Those glittering angels and twinkling stars? The perfect backdrop for a festive group snap. 

For a fresh view of the city’s festive flair, opt for a Thames River Cruise. Picture London’s iconic landmarks dressed in their Christmas finery – just make sure to wrap up warm!

Swingers ~ The crazy golf club

We believe that life is more fun when there is an element of competition, and that competition is best enjoyed with friends.

Swingers, the crazy golf club takes the holy trinity that is crazy golf, street food and amazing cocktails and combines them all into one incredible social experience