The smell of cinnamon, the sound of a crackling fire, and the warming feeling of a stove-top hot chocolate in our bellies gives us the signal the Christmas season is upon us. London is a city where Christmas traditions and celebration fall far from short. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Christmas activities in our city that are sure to leave your eyes twinkling like fairy lights!

Ice Skating
We would be remiss if we failed to mention ice skating! While there are so many locations to choose from, a Hip & Healthy favourite is at Somerset House, where the venue is completely transformed and cannot be described in any other way that magical. Ticket prices start from £7.50. Book in advance here.

Christmas Lights
From November 23 to January 2, Kew Gardens will light up it’s beautiful grounds with Christmas cheer! Explore the gardens and get lost in the magic of the combination of botanical gardens and Christmas lights with a Tunnel of Lights, Scented Fire Garden among other Christmas activities including a North Pole Village and vintage rides. Tickets start from £16. Book in advance here.

Christmas Shopping
Chelsea physic gardens Christmas fair
The annual Christmas Fair at Chelsea Physic Gardens is one of our favourites to shop and get in the Christmas season! We love that each vendor is unique so that we can give our loved ones gifts that are truly special! Tickets are £6.00 and the proceeds go to maintain the garden.

Carol Services
What would Christmas be without caroling? This is one of our favourite activities that leave us feeling happy and jolly! Check your local neighborhood to see what times and where you can get in the Christmas Spirit!

Christmas Nibbles
For those who are gluten, dairy-free, and sugar free, the holidays can be like navigating a minefield. We love Christmas Markets but are often thoroughly disappointed when we can find only one Christmas treat sans allergens. Luckily, our friends at Free From have heard our prayers and from December 17^th to December 18^th, you can find yourself indulging in the UK’s 1^st GF/DF/SF Christmas Festival! Tickets start at £6.50 and it is one event you won’t want to miss if you love Christmas treats but have a few limitations! Buy your tickets here!

Words by Nadia Liu