The Winter can be a really magical time to visit London, in particular, December. Much in the same way as New York takes on new appeal during the run up to Christmas and the New Year. How many times have you seen a movie with a scene of New York in December and thought how nice it would be to be there? London isn’t quite New York, I know, but there are some lovely things happening this Winter – read on to hear about just a few of them.

There are tons of festive things to do in London every year to celebrate Christmas and New Year. The streets in London sparkle with Christmas lights in December, and shops are full of people doing their Christmas shopping.

Trafalgar Square is always great to get into the festive spirit, with carol singing and the largest Christmas tree in London. Perhaps you fancy a trip to a Christmas market, maybe have a glass of mulled wine or a yummy hot chocolate, whilst the children ride on a traditional carousel.

Maybe, you could all go ice skating together, a lovely winter activity for all the family. There are some wonderful pop up ice rinks all over London, perhaps you could follow it up with a trip to Santa’s Grotto? Hamley’s has sold out, so have a look at some of the other locations.

Perhaps, after you are all skated out, you can head off to a Christmas Panto and grab a mince pie during the interval.

You could also check out what some of the established London attractions are doing over the festive period. I know that Shrek’s Adventure have a grotto for example and The Shard have several festive events going on. Before you book anything like this, it’s worth having a look at Discount London to see if you can make any savings. Christmas is such an expensive time of year, it makes sense to save where you can.

One really popular winter event in London with families, always seems to be the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, open until 1st January. With fairground rides, seasonal foods and treats, festive shows and an observation wheel, there is something for everyone.

For an alternative, you can head to Clapham Common and Winterville, for more ice skating, a roller disco and street feast, whilst watching Christmas movies.

If you happen to be in London actually on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, you could always watch the members of the Serpentine Swimming Club compete for the Peter Pan Cup in the icy waters of the Hyde Park lake.

From Boxing Day onward, you’ll be able to join in the madness of the sales and grab a few bargains.

For those of you around in London on New Year’s Eve, London’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks take place every year at the Coca-Cola London Eye on 31 December. Buy your ticket in advance to secure a place at this popular London December event.

If you want to venture out of the city a little, you could try Hogworts in The Snow or pay a visit to the big man himself at LaplandUK.