Winter Festival at South Bank Centre

The South Bank is fairy-lit and lovely all year round, but it’s a particularly good spot if you want to avoid the hectic hordes of central London high street shopping for something with a lot more charm. Peruse stalls at the riverside Christmas market, with the scent of mulled wine filling the air.

It’s not all about festive shopping though, the Winter Festival lasts well into January with plenty of free events to keep you entertained, and ward off the cold. Adults can enjoy a feminist, festive cabaret from Glittery Clittery, live music nights and a new-years bash to remember while those with kids may want to head to the Snow Ball instead. Performances of Rumplestiltskin and Circus 1903 (puppet animals only, don’t worry) will keep them entertained and a creative writing workshop is a good way to get them thinking about the upcoming year.

(Becky Matthews)