When the winter arrives, it can put you in a bit of a miserable funk. The holidays help to cheer you up, but sometimes it feels like all you want to do is get away. Although some people like to go somewhere warmer in the winter, like Mexico or the Caribbean, there are hundreds of other great places to see. The temperature won’t exactly be bikini weather, but you would be missing out on a lot if you never visited anywhere cold. London, England is one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists and one of our favourite places in the world. Though it can be expensive, it is worth the cost to experience this vibrant city during the winter.

Winter Accommodation

You will love enjoying the big city from cozy accommodations in the centre of London. Some of the world’s most famous hotels are in the UK’s capital city, including Claridge’s and The Dorchester. Luxury hotels in London will do their utmost to make you feel welcome and take care of your every need, but of course, you don’t have to go for the pricier options. Check these results for a range of hotels with different star ratings. After a day visiting the Christmas markets, you can return to a warm pub for a hot cocktail or sit in front of a fire while you thaw out.

Pop-up Up Restaurants

As with many cultured cities, London often has many pop-up restaurants and other events on the go. Winter is a great excuse for frosty-themed fun, and you will surely find many in London. Check out the Ski Lodge at The Montague on the Gardens boutique hotel, which happens every year, or try some Alpine cooking at The Lodge Balham, where you can have a beautiful traditional Sunday roast or a cheese fondue. If you crave a more relaxed atmosphere and hanging out with friends, visit the rooftop wigwam at Queen of Hoxton. Enjoy a hot toddy and barbecue around a fire.

Christmas Markets

London is a big city, so there are a number of locations you can check out for traditional Christmas markets. One of the biggest events happens to be Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This winter event offers food and drink, market stalls, ice-skating and more. You can spend days exploring different markets, where you can find beautiful hand-made items, from jewellery to Christmas decorations. If you love to eat and drink, there’s plenty for you, including mulled wine, hog roasts, and roast chestnuts. Shopping and good food; really, nothing is better!

Unusual Events

Along with the usual Christmas markets and Christmas lights, there are also some unique and wonderful things that happen in London in the winter. In 2014, you’ll find people parading through the streets dressed as Santa for ‘Santacon’, plus, if you stay in the city on Christmas Day, you can catch the Peter Pan Cup race at Hyde Park, where every year, the members of the Serpentine Swimming Club hold a race in Serpentine Lake on Christmas morning. In case you didn’t already know, the Peter Pan trophy was donated by J.M. Barrie, the author of the popular children’s story.

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