Things to do in London this winter

Guest Post

During the summer London welcomed an estimated 680,000 people with many flocking to the capital to see the Olympics. However, just because the summer, along with the season’s events are done and dusted, doesn’t mean there isn’t anything left to do. London looks spectacular over the winter with many famous roads illuminated with festive lights, shop windows dressed to impress and entice you into the warmth and iconic buildings transformed into ice rinks. There are a lot of London hotel ideas that you can look into before your trip, there is just so much to see and do!

Winter Events 2012/13

Hollywood Costume at the V&A

Sometimes it isn’t just acting that makes the character; it’s the costume that can do most of the talking. The V&A are playing host to a series of iconic Hollywood costumes. From Kate Winslet’s black and white costume worn when boarding the Titanic to the sparkling jumpsuit Meryl Streep wore in Mama Mia, there are some fantastic outfits for you to gaze at. Even Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy dress (Breakfast at Tiffany’s) is there. This is a must see exhibition for both film and fashion lovers alike.

Where: Victoria and Albert Museum,Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 2RL

When: 20 October 2012 – 27 January 2013

Price: From £5.20 – £37

Mughal India: Art, Culture and Empire

The Mughal Empire ruled India and Pakistan in the 16^th and 17^th Centuries, which saw the Muslim faith spread into Hindu countries.  The British Library is now exhibiting pieces from the sixteenth and through to the nineteenth centuries to allow visitors the chance to explore a deep-rooted history. The exhibition features insightful objects that tell a story of poisonings, passion for knowledge, desire for power and love affairs. If you have always been intrigued by the Mughal Empire and its impact on modern India, this is the exhibition for you.

Where: British Library, 96 Euston Rd, London, NW1 2DB

When: Until 2 April 2013

Price: From £5 – £10

Ice Skating

These temporary ice rinks aren’t just for Christmas. Many of the ice rinks remain open throughout January, giving you the perfect opportunity to test out the winter sport and indulge in a hot chocolate afterwards. There are many ice rinks around London, here are just a few of them:

• Alexandra Palace
• Tower of London
• Winter wonderland at Hyde Park
• Somerset House
• Natural History Museum
• Westfield Stratford
• Canary Wharf

Sea Life Aquarium

Home to over 600 species, 2 million litres of water and more sharks than ever before, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium offers you an unforgettable insight into life under the sea. You don’t just have to stand behind the pane of glass either. There are many opportunities for you to snorkel with sharks, feed stingrays and go ‘behind the scenes’ to discover how staff members look after the 600 plus marine and fresh-water species. It is a fantastic place to take the family and immerse yourselves in all things aquatic.

Where: County Hall, Riverside Building, London, SE1 7PB

Price: from £14.85

Sketch

Warm yourself up with a good old cup of tea, or perhaps a High Tea. French master chef Pierre Gagnaire and restaurateur Mourad Mazous have teamed together to create Sketch. A place where you can enjoy a spot of tea, a Michelin three star inspired menu, art and music – all in one place.

Where: 9 Conduit Street, London, W1S 2XG

These are but a few of the places and events that you can visit in London over winter. Just because the weather has become colder and everyone has slowed down doesn’t mean that the city has to stop. Brave the cold and explore London in all its glory, you never know what you may uncover.

Things to do in London this winter has been written by Refresh Accommodation a specialist in providing unique service apartments in London.

About The Author

Cecil Lee

The author is an avid traveler and photography hobbyist who loves to share with others his travel and photo-taking experience in many popular tourist destinations around Europe, Asia and Australasia. Read the exciting stories with many photos captured on his journeys.