Red Carnation Hotels

DESTINATION NEWS

What's hot in London this weekend

The capital is gearing up for Christmas this weekend and visitors have no shortage of seasonal activities to really get them in festive mood.

First up should surely be a trip to Somerset House to try out the ice-rink, which opened on November 17th with much fanfare and a celeb-packed party, and will be in place until January 24th.

Visitors can try a spot of skating under the stars with the stunning 18th-century property, gloriously lit with fairy lights, supplying a dazzling romantic setting just 15 minutes' taxi ride from the luxury London hotel.

Sponsored by Tiffany & Co, the Skate Café & Bar sells refreshments and jewellery, so couples catching their breath after a turn on the ice could also indulge in some early Christmas shopping.

The ice-skating rink at Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, meanwhile, is a must for families looking for a full day of fun and is just a short walk away.

Until January 3rd, the area near Hyde Park Corner will be home to a rink, a circus, a big observation wheel and numerous other rides and attractions guaranteed to keep kids busy.

Parents, meanwhile, can wander through traditional German and English markets, sampling the tasty seasonal delicacies and warming mulled wine on offer.

Another event likely to appeal to adults and children alike and just 15 minutes by cab from the hotel is the Christmas Storytelling, taking place at Fortnum & Mason on November 22nd.

Children are sure to love listening to a tale in the cosy store, and the goody bag they'll receive afterwards, while parents will no doubt appreciate the chance to rest their feet after a day's shopping.

Grown-ups who never quite managed to grow out of their love of toys, meanwhile, could head to the Kensington Dolls House Festival just a stone's throw away.

Kensington Town Hall will be home to thousands of miniatures on November 21st, as collectors and craftspeople from around the world show off exquisitely detailed models.

Just down the road at Olympia the Winter Fine Art & Antiques Fair is also likely to appeal to collectors, whether they are looking for antique toys and dolls, or other pieces like furniture and paintings.

The event, which started on November 16th and ends November 22nd, features thousands of unique items but, with prices also running into the thousands, any Christmas gifts from here will need to be for a very special person indeed!

Guests at The Milestone Hotel staying for two nights or more will also be given a complimentary gift, which they can choose from a selection of luxury offers including a Harrods voucher, Champagne and free entry to great London sights.

back