_Christmas in South Bank: top eight festive activities

Christmas in London is something to behold, whether it’s the spectacular lights that illuminate London’s most-loved landmarks, the pop-up markets, bars, ice-rinks and multitude of festive events, or the general feeling of goodwill that sweeps across the capital. 

South Bank is a particularly festive corner of London, with its high concentration of cultural centres and sweeping riverside promenade – it’s the perfect setting for getting into the Christmas spirit. From the annual Southbank Centre Christmas Market to the lesser known events and hidden gems of the south side, here are our top picks of what to do in South Bank this winter:  

Above: South Bank looking towards Palace of Westminster 

The Circus Bar at Southbank Centre 

Roll-up, roll-up – this Christmas you’re invited to the one and only Circus Bar at the Southbank Centre. The series of colourful, pop-up big tops contains bars serving winter warmers such as mulled wine, hot cider and craft beer, while the open-plan kitchen produces delicious street-food and festive treats. There’s even a secret cinema showing holiday favourites – tickets must be booked in advance.  

Circus 1903 at the Southbank Centre 

If the Circus Bar has left you craving a slice of real circus action, then you don’t need to go any further than the Southbank Centre, featuring the spectacular Circus 1903. As well as a range of adrenaline-pumping acts and jaw-dropping displays, Circus 1903 will feature life-size elephants (created by puppeteers from War Horse) whose realism must be seen to be believed. 

London’s Original Christmas Boat Party  

Enjoy a unique night out on the Thames with one of London’s Original Christmas Boat Parties! Departing from either Festival or Waterloo Pier on South Bank, the four-hour festive cruise  passes London’s illuminated landmarks and includes a light buffet meal, dancefloor and DJ, licenced bar and free guest-list entrance to a club after the cruise. 

Southbank Centre Winter Market 

Christmas in South Bank wouldn’t be complete without the South Bank Winter Market. From the beginning of November to the beginning of January, the Queen’s Walk along South Bank erupts into life with avenues of twinkling, wooden chalets as the South Bank Centre Winter Market arrives. Traders from all over the world gather to sell a variety of crafts, gifts and food at one of London’s most-loved festive events. 

Above: Enjoy the outdoor festive market on Queen's Walk 

Bar Under the Bridge 

Get cosy this season in this unique pop-up, alpine-style lodge under Hungerford Bridge on South Bank. With heated booths, toasty fleece rugs, board games and ping-pong tables, this is the perfect place to head to with a group of friends. Bar Under the Bridge also serves festive streetfood and drink, including the renowned Baggio Burger.  

Rekorderlig Cider Lodge 

Resembling a traditional Scandinavian house, the Rekorderlig Cider Lodge brings a slice of Scandi-cool to South Bank this winter. The two-storey structure serves cocktails made to order (some made with Rekorderlig’s new spiced plum cider) as well as delicious Swedish food, around fire pits with festive riverside views.   

Rooftop Ice Rink at Bar Elba 

Waterloo’s fashionable Bar Elba is going one step further this season with its very own rooftop ice rink. Although not the biggest ice rink in London – it does offer views like no other. You can even try your hand at curling before enjoying a drink overlooking the sparkling skyline.  

Carols and Concerts at the Royal Festival Hall 

The Royal Festival Hall is hosting a variety of festive events this winter, from Christmas Carol singalongs to Grand Christmas Classics from the Philharmonia Orchestra and The Bach Choir. To view the full schedule of events, visit the Southbank Centre website. 

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