Winter (Christmas) by the River

Billed as the capital’s most picturesque Christmas market, London Bridge City will be getting festive again this year with Winter by the River (previously known as Christmas by the River).

What to do at Winter by the River

With stalls selling food, drink and perfect stocking fillers as well as artisan gifts, you can enjoy the stunning city and riverside views while you stroll through the market. Voted the nation’s best Christmas market for a first date, it’s got full-on festive romcom vibes.

As well as the usual festive market fare (anyone for more bratwurst?) there’s a full line-up of foods from around the world competing to wow the crowds, so be sure to come hungry. Relax in The Glasshouse, with its brand-new makeover as a spectacular two-storey festive venue with panoramic views across the river.

Alternatively, you can get involved in one of the experiences on offer such as paint and sip, wreath making, cocktail masterclasses, gingerbread decoration, Christmas ornament decoration, festive trivia night, Christmas singalong night and wine tasting, with live music on Wednesday – Saturdays.

That’s not all – London Bridge City Pier will once more be home to Swift Stone, the pop-up curling experience. Challenge your friends, family, or colleagues on specially designed curling lanes; this year it’s bigger and better than ever, with six new curling lanes, a larger central bar and an apres-ski themed Aperol bar. Set inside a glass-enclosed venue, lanes can accommodate up to eight people and sessions last for 50 minutes.

Getting to Winter by the River

London Bridge City is smack bang in the middle of the southern entrances to London Bridge and Tower Bridge. At a little over five minutes on foot, your closest tube stop will be London Bridge, on the Northern and Jubilee lines; London Bridge also has a bus station. If you fancy a stroll across the river, Monument is also within walking distance.