What's On
Family Ice Skating festive activity to kick off your Winter Wonderland experience for first dates, play dates and best mates. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/ things-to-do/ice-skating
Skate at Bluewater
Fri 10 Nov - Sun 7 Jan The Ice Rink at Winter Village, Westfield London (W12) It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than with a spot of skating at The Ice Rink at Westfield London. Ice skating is the perfect Christmas activity for catching up with friends and family over the festive season. www.icerinkatwestfieldlondon.co.uk
Sat 21 Oct – Sat 24 Feb Ice Rink Canary Wharf (E14) London’s longest-running seasonal ice rink returns for 18 magical weeks. This year promises to be the most exciting year yet, and there’s no chance of rain-cancelling play with the magnificent roof, lit up by the shimmering lights of the giant mirror ball, so come rain or shine, the British weather won’t stop this year’s fun winter day out. www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk Sat 28 Oct – Sun 7 Jan Royal Pavilion Ice Rink (BN1) Welcome to the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink Celebrate a greener Christmas this year with the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. Stunning, twinkly, romantic, child-friendly... and ice powered entirely by Green Energy, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open to the public this season from 28 Oct–7 Jan. We can’t wait to see you all back on the ice. www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk From Fri 10 Nov Skylight Tobacco Dock Rooftop Ice Rink (E1W) Hold onto your earmuffs, because Europe’s only rooftop ice skating rink is coming back! Whether you are an ice dancing pro or your style resembles a penguin’s first steps, you are in for some epic fun. There will be plenty of helper penguins on ice, that will have you sliding into giggles. First come first serve, cannot be pre-booked. www.skylightbars.com/tobacco-dock Fri 10 Nov – Sun 7 Jan Glide at Battersea Power Station (SW8) Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, Glide at Battersea Power Station offers unrivalled views of the Thames as you skate around three interconnecting rinks surrounded by twinkling lights and a spectacular 30 ft Christmas tree. www.glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk Wed 15 Nov – Sun 14 Jan Skate At Somerset House With Switzerland Tourism (WC2R) Skate returns to Somerset House this winter for an unparalleled skating experience in the heart of the capital. A beloved staple of London’s winter season,
10 Families North West London
Somerset House’s spectacular courtyard will be transformed this year into a glorious festive destination with a uniquely Swiss winter vibe courtesy of Switzerland Tourism. www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/ skate-somerset-house Tue 14 Nov – Sun 7 Jan Skate at Bluewater (DA9) Located outside The Village near Zizzi’s, the covered outdoor rink will offer plenty of space for skaters of all abilities to go for a spin, come rain or shine. There will be quiet sessions, in addition to parent and toddler sessions for wobbly starters. PLUS, Ice Rink party nights are back by popular demand, so get ready to show off your moves to classic party anthems! www.bluewater.co.uk/icerink Fri 17 Nov – Sun 7 Jan Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (KT8) Immerse yourself in the quintessential winter experience at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink! Bundle up in warm layers, gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the magnificent views of this beautiful Tudor palace while gracefully gliding around the stunning outdoor rink. www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Thu 23 Nov – Sun 7 Jan Queen’s House Ice Rink (SE10) A magical open-air ice rink in the heart of Greenwich. The rink is surrounded by iconic architecture, with views of Greenwich Park to the south and the glittering lights of Canary Wharf to the north, providing a backdrop of some of the best views in London. Relaxed sessions available on selected dates. www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house/ attractions/queens-house-ice-rink Fri 17 Nov – Mon 1 Jan Lidl On Ice (W2) Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Set under a canopy of twinkly lights and built around the iconic Victorian bandstand, you can hit the ice from 10am-10pm daily. Open to all ages, this ice-skating rink is the perfect
Fri 24 Nov – Sat 24 Dec Willows Farm Village Santa Spectacular (AL4) As part of their Santa Spectacular, Willows Farm will have a Magical Ice Rink where you can Glide around the synthetic ice with ski boots available to fit all sizes. Great fun for the whole family! www.willowsactivityfarm.com Thu 30 Nov – Sun 7 Jan ICE at Kensington Palace (W8) Celebrate the festive season with friends and family at London’s most anticipated winter event. With its historic location, winter warming food and drink, VIP experiences, and fun activities, ICE at Kensington Palace is set to become a new tradition for Londoners during the festive season. www.iceatkensingtonpalace.co.uk Fri 8 Dec – Sun 7 Jan Kingdom of Winter at ExCel London (E16) Step into another world and enjoy a host of family-friendly attractions, including a winter themed circus, ice skating, fairground rides, an immersive ice expedition trail and more all under one roof. www.excel.london/visitor/whats-on/ kingdom-of-winter Sun 10 Dec – Sun 7 Jan JW3 Ice Rink 2023 (NW3) Whether you want to practice your Double Lutz or just your Double Klutz, go and skate on North West London’s favourite pop-up ice rink at JW3. With a skating area of 200m2, the outdoor ice rink comes complete with glimmering lights, vibrant music and an electric atmosphere. And don’t forget, the helpful penguin stabilisers or banana toboggans can be pre-booked for less confident little ones to have fun on. www.jw3.org.uk/ice-rink#
Don’t forget to say you saw these listings in Families Magazine!
Familiesonline.co.uk
What's On
Where is Santa?
LOCAL
Lee Valley Boat Centre (EN10) A Santa Cruise on 10, 17 and 21 Dec are one hour boat cruises with a visit from Santa. www.riverleecruises.co.uk
Aldenham Country Park (WD6) Winter-Fest Farm Pass, every weekend from 25 Nov to 17 Dec, and every day from 18–24 Dec. Take a memorable trip through Santa’s Magical Grotto to meet the lovely Mrs Claus. Venture on through the magical wardrobe to meet the big man himself, and share all your Christmas wishes! Enter into Santa’s workshop and choose your perfect gift... On your way out, don’t forget to write your letter to Santa and post it to receive a video message reply from Santa! www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk/winterfest Burston Garden Centre (AL2) Go and visit Santa in his magical Christmas grotto between 1 Nov–24 Dec. Additional needs sessions are available, designed to provide a more relaxed and quiet environment for your child. These sessions are the first of the day, which is when the centre tends to be quieter. www.burston.co.uk/event/christmasgrotto Compass Theatre (UB10) From Sat 16 to Sun 24 Dec, go and see Santa in the The Santa Show 2023 at Compass Theatre. Suitable for ages 2+, this short, live stage show features songs, audience interaction and a new story for 2023, followed by the chance to meet, greet - and receive a small gift from Santa himself. www.hillingdontheatres.uk/index.php/ events/the-santa-show-2023 Harlington Locomotive Society (UB3) Mince Pie Run on 10 December: This annual Christmas event sees Father Christmas visiting the railway. Mince pies will be served from the tea bar, in addition to the usual fare. Open 11am to dusk. www.harlingtonlocomotivesociety.org.uk Kenwood House (NW3) Join in the festive fun with Father Christmas at Kenwood as the man himself tells seasonal stories among the traditional decorations. Every weekend throughout December. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whatson/Father-Christmas-at-Kenwood Ruislip Lido (HA4) Santa is a very busy man around Christmas time, but once again, he has managed to find a space in his diary to visit the Ruislip Lido Railway. Santa will be at the railway in 2023 on Sun 3, Sat 9, Sun 10, Sat 16 and Sun 17 Dec. Your adventure will start from Willow Lawn Station and will carry you on an enchanting ride through the woods and around the Lido to Santa’s Grotto at Woody Bay Station. www.ruisliplidorailway.org
FURTHER AFIELD Chelsea Physic Garden (SW3) Visit the enchanting Chelsea Physic Garden during the first three weekends in December, for a special storytelling experience with Father Christmas. Children will receive a lovely gift, there will be an opportunity to take a picture with Father Christmas and Familiesonline.co.uk
Legoland (SL4) Celebrate the most special time of the year with ‘LEGOLAND at Christmas’, taking place on selected dates from 25 Nov. Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and receive a special LEGO® gift! Please note, this ticket does not include entry which must be purchased separately. www.legoland.co.uk
after you will be able to explore the beautiful Garden at winter time. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Chessington World of Adventures (KT9) From 25 Nov–31 Dec, make magical memories at Winter’s Tail, enjoying festive family fun with your nearest and DEERest at Chessington. With the help of the jolly elves and reindeer, meet Father Christmas in his log fire grotto and revel in all the Christmas cheer that a traditional panto and carollers offer. Plus, NEW for 2023, visit the charming residents of Enchanted Hollow as they prepare for a magical Christmas. www.chessington.com/explore/events/ christmas Christmas Wonderland at Crews Hill (EN2) All aboard at the station platform, where you begin your magical ride through the reindeer forest! You’ll continue your magical ride through the Wonderland where you will see some familiar Christmas favourites, en route to Santa’s magical Ice Kingdom where Santa will greet you alongside your carriage. Remaining in your carriage you finally visit the Elves toy shop where you finish your ride and choose your Christmas gift with love from Santa. Open from 10 Nov. www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk Knebworth House (SG1) Dine With Santa at Knebworth Barns on 17 and 22 Dec. Give your family an early Christmas treat with a fantastic meal at Knebworth Barns. Dine with Santa includes a grazing platter on arrival, two-course meal, tea and coffee, Christmas crackers, a visit from Santa and a colouring activity sheet. www.knebworthhouse.com/events/dinewith-santa Lauderdale House (N6) Every year a magical Christmas grotto springs up in Lauderdale House as the man himself (Father Christmas, Santa Claus, Père Noël, Saint Nick) pays a special seasonal visit. Kids of all ages can go along to meet him on 9 and 10 Dec. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/whats-on/ santas-christmas-grotto-
London Transport Museum (WC2E) All aboard for festive family fun - and the chance to meet Santa! Santa is landing his sleigh in the twinkling winter wonderland to meet families from 24 Nov until 23 Dec. Children will love climbing aboard the Routemaster-inspired sleigh to flash the headlights, ring the bell and set the Christmas cheer-o-meter! www.ltmuseum.co.uk Museum of London Docklands (E14) From 2-23 Dec, visit Victorian Santa’s grotto. Santa is waiting for you in his Sailortown Grotto with a festive gift. You can even take a photo to capture the moment as personal photography is now permitted! Afterwards, experience the Sailortown gallery, transformed with festive decorations and the sound of Victorian carols being sung in the distance. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon/whats-on Odds Farm Park (HP10) Christmas Spectacular at Odds Farm Park on selected dates from 25 Nov–24 Dec. Take a magical stroll to the North Pole and enjoy a personal visit to meet Father Christmas. Soak up the seasonal splendour, where the Farm Park has been sprinkled with yuletide wonder and festive frivolities, and families will be joined by a very special guest! www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmasspectacular The Santa Steam Express (SW1E) Returning for its third year of merriment, the magical trips offer families a chance to meet Santa and his helpers on a steam train departing from and returning to London Victoria. The extra special journey will depart four times a day on Fri 15 Dec, Mon 18 Dec and Thu 21 Dec. Climb on board and take a enchanting trip with Santa and his helpers as they jingle their way through festively decorated vintage carriages during this one hour 30 minute adventure around London. www.steamdreams.co.uk/ santasteamexpresstours.php ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (LU6) Santa is heading back to Whipsnade Zoo this Christmas! Meet the man himself as part of a fun-filled, festive, family day out. Every child who meets Santa will receive an early Christmas gift to take home. Weekends from 2 Dec, then 16-24 Dec. Relaxed sessions available. www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-your-visit/ events/christmas-at-whipsnade-zoo
Families North West London 11
What's On
listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.
www.Familiesonline.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events. Many activities and events require advance booking. Please check the website in the listing to confirm terms and conditions for attending before heading out. Fri 3 Nov - McGovern Park Annual Family Fireworks Display (HA4) This year’s theme is Princes and Princesses and the fireworks will be set to music from Disney’s greatest love stories. There will be a funfair, princess party, stiltwalkers, bubbleologist, live music from Ivy Mae, Irish dancing, face-painting, clairvoyant, food and drink. 4.30-11.30pm. www.mcgovernpark.com Sat 4 Nov - Diwali Celebration Day (HA5) A fun variety of Diwali activities for the whole family, including arts, crafts, story-telling and more. At the Heath Robinson Museum, 11am1pm or 2-4pm. Booking is essential. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org/ whats-on/diwali-celebrationday-2
Sat 11 Nov - Lord Mayor’s Show (EC2R) Join in the fun at a rare weekend opening at the Bank of England Museum, as part of the Lord Mayor’s Show! Watch the parade as it passes the Bank of England, then explore the Museum and enjoy a variety of activities for all the family, including face painting, crafts, and storytelling sessions. 11am-4pm. www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum/whats-on/2023/lordmayors-show
Sat 4 Nov - Harrow Fireworks Display 2023 (HA3) An Unforgettable Evening of Family Fun and Entertainment at Byron Park. This annual community event promises an unforgettable evening celebrating the spirit of family, festivity, and culture, all against the backdrop of stunning pyrotechnics. Fireworks start at approx. 7.45pm. www.harrowfireworks.co.uk
Sat 11 Nov–Sun 7 Jan – Winterland (DA9) Winterland is returning to Bluewater - get into the Christmas spirit with games and rides galore! It promises to be another festive extravaganza, with a new double deck carousel, bumper cars, waltzer, white-knuckle rides and more – plus plenty of festive drinks to keep you toasty, from hot chocolate to mulled wine. The amazing Observation Wheel will offer unrivalled views over Bluewater and beyond, and featuring a state-of-the-art LED light show, it’s a spectacle to be enjoyed day and night. www.bluewater.co.uk/ winterland-2023
Sat 4 Nov - Cassiobury Fireworks (WD18) Head along to Cassiobury Park for Hertfordshire’s largest FREE fireworks display organised by Watford Borough Council. This amazing spectacle just gets better every year. The display is going reach heights of up to 850 feet in the night sky whilst wide flanks of cakes are going to fill the sky with every kind of colour possible. 6-8.30pm. www.watfordevents.com/ cassioburyfireworks
Sun 12 Nov - Remembrance Day Service 2023 (NW9) The annual Remembrance Day Service at the RAF Museum, London, on Remembrance Sunday to pay respect to those Service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during their tours of duty. There will be a commemorative service followed by readings and performance by a local choir. 10.30am. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/ london/whats-going-on/events/ remembrance-day-service-2023
Sat 4 Nov - Ealing Cricket Club’s Firework Display (W5) The Ealing Cricket Club Fireworks Display ‘THE BEST OF BRITISH’!! will be held this year on Sat 4th Nov. The Display is set to a theme of THE BEST OF BRITISH!! with a mix of theme tunes to accompany the display celebrating over 60 years of our foremost most iconic British agent. At Ealing Cricket Club, Corfton Road, Ealing, gates open at 6pm, display at 7.45pm. www.ealingcc.co.uk
Wed 15 Nov - Tiny Troopers: Poppy Making (SW3) Sing, play and create with your little ones at these fun, sensory sessions, perfect for ages 2 to 5 at the National Army Museum. In November, you will be learning all about why we wear poppies and how we remember those who served in the Armed Forces, before making poppy wreaths. www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/tinytroopers-poppy-making
Thu 9 Nov - Motivating Our Teens to Learn Workshop (Online) A 2 hour workshop run by Hope Harrow, for all parents of children aged 12yrs plus. You will discuss how to support your Teens sustain the joy of learning in the face of any possible struggles and frustrations. 7-9pm online via zoom. Book now: 0208 863 7319 or 07498881496 info@hopeharrow.org.uk 14 Families North West London
Wed 15 Nov–Sun 7 Jan Christmas at Kew (TW9) As one of the highlights of the UK’s festive calendar, Christmas at Kew is an unmissable opportunity to herald the start of Christmas or welcome in the New Year. Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a moment of reflection, pause at mesmerising flickering flames in
the fire garden, wander beneath larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way. www.kew.org/kew-gardens/ whats-on/christmas Thu 16 Nov - Christmas Celebration: Hayes Town (UB3) Head along to St Anselm’s Church in Hayes for the annual Christmas celebration. The Schools Community Choir - Hayes will be performing a short concert in the church from 4pm. The Mayor of Hillingdon will end the concert by switching on the Christmas lights at the church at 4.30pm. Everyone is welcome. There’s no need to book. discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/ christmas-celebration-hayes Thu 16 Nov-Thu 18 Jan - Effective Parenting Course (Online) An 8 week course for all parents of children aged 3-11 run by Hope Harrow. This 8 week programme aims to support parents and carers with practical parenting strategies to develop their abilities to bring up confident, happy and co operative children. 7-9pm, online. 020 8863 7319, info@hopeharrow.org.uk Fri 17 Nov–Mon 1 Jan – Winter Wonderland (W2) Located in London’s iconic Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is the world’s ultimate destination for festive fun. Running for six magical weeks and offering a variety of attractions, activities, entertainment, food and more. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland. com Sat 18 Nov - Watford Town Centre Winterfest (WD17) Christmas is coming to Watford Town Centre! This FREE event will begin the festive season in style, including funfair rides, festive activities, food & drink stalls, a high street parade and live music performers. Takes place on The Parade from 2-6pm. www.watfordtowncentre.com/ event/watford-town-centrewinterfest Sat 18 Nov - LGBTQ+ Family Network (SE10) A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all ages and explore the stories within the collection at the National Maritime Museum. 10am-12pm. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/ national-maritime-museum/lgbtqfamily-network Mon 20 Nov - Toddler Takeover Day (HA2) A day for Under 5’s to take over the running of Headstone Manor & Museum. Toddlers will have the chance to be Security Guards,
Archaeologists, Curators and more! 11am-2.30pm. www.headstonemanor.org/ events/toddler-takeover-day Wed 22 Nov–Mon 1 Jan Christmas at Waddesdon (HP18) This Christmas at Waddesdon, be spirited away to a magical wonderland as classic tales come to life with new decorations in the house and dazzling new light displays outside enchant and delight. Go on a magical adventure as you enter the wondrous world of Alice in Wonderland, find the Snow Queen’s kingdom and fly with Peter Pan to Neverland. Christmas Fair will be open until 17 Dec. www.waddesdon.org.uk/whatson/christmas Thu 23–Sun 26 Nov - Chelsea Physic Garden Christmas Fair (SW3) This festive celebration will host over 100 curated stands, showcasing the finest independent suppliers within the beautiful surroundings of the Chelsea Physic Garden. Along with food, drinks and plenty of cheer, there’s something for everyone. Thurs–Sat, 10am–5pm & Sun, 10am–4pm. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/ visit/whats-on/christmas-fair Fri 24 Nov - Carols at the Christmas Lights Switch On (UB8) Head to the forecourt of the Civic Centre at 5.45pm, where the Mayor of Hillingdon will switch on the lights on the Christmas tree. This year will feature two primary school choirs and Hillingdon Music Hub’s own Young Singers and Brass Band performing carols and music. www.discover.hillingdon.gov.uk Fri 24–Sun 26 Nov - Knebworth Christmas Fair (SG1) The region’s biggest festive shopping event is back, packed with Christmas presents and gift ideas for all ages, plus delicious festive food & drink. Shop for handmade Christmas decorations, unique gift ideas and lots of tasty yuletide food and drink. Go along with your friends and family to enjoy this festive feast of fun. www.knebworthchristmasfair.co.uk Sat 25 Nov - Family Workshops: George the Wombat (NW1) Meet George at the British Library, a very brave and fuzzy wombat, who lives with his Mummy and Papa and decides one day to find out what lies beyond his borrow. Join illustrator/animator Galina Miklinova and George the Wombat, on his humorous adventures in the forest, including a little pottytraining along the way. www.bl.uk/events/familyworkshops-george-the-wombat Familiesonline.co.uk
WHAT’S ON Sat 25 Nov - Sun 7 Jan - The Magic of Christmas (NW1) Experience the Magic of Christmas at London Zoo. There’s everything you need for a jam-packed family day out! Meet Santa, go on the Christmas Sleigh Trail and enjoy Christmas-themed animal talks. www.londonzoo.org/plan-yourvisit/events/magic-of-christmas
Sat 2–Sun 17 Dec - Twinkle Trail (HA2) Can you help find all of the decorations hidden at Headstone Manor & Museum? Go and celebrate the 12 days of Headstone! Fill in the trail sheet and get a festive prize at the end. www.headstonemanor.org/ events/twinkle-trail
in the moves, the music and the magic of an interactive, fun and original retelling of this traditional tale at Croxley Green Library, from 10am. Ages 2-8. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/ services/libraries-and-archives/ events-and-things-to-do/croxleygreen/jack-and-the-beanstalk. aspx
Sun 26 Nov - Frost Fair (N3) Finchley Women’s Institute present their 12th Annual Frost Fair, taking place at Stephens House and Gardens. Over 40 Stalls, offering an exciting variety of seasonal gifts and treats, created by local artisans at affordable prices. 10.30am–5pm. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com/events
Sun 3 Dec – Christmas Market (WD17) Christmas Market at Watford Marketplace, open from 10am-3pm. www.watfordmarket.co.uk/events
Sat 16 Dec - Marching Orders: Amazing Animals (SW3) Head to the National Army Museum to learn all about the amazing world of Army animals. How did a pony get to be corporal? How were pigeons used to get messages across enemy lines? And how did a German Shepherd join the Parachute Regiment and storm the beaches on D-Day? A familyfriendly tour lasting 30 minutes. www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on
Fri 1 Dec–Mon 1 Jan - Christmas At Kenwood (NW3) Christmas at Kenwood has a brand-new light trail, bringing colour, lights and interactive play to Kenwood House. With 13 brandnew installations, this interactive light trail invites you to expect the unexpected as you take a stroll through the grounds. 4.30-8pm. www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/whats-on/kenwoodchristmas-2023 Sat 2–Sun 3 Dec - Christmas Elf Cadet Training (NW9) Have you always wondered how Santa does it? How does he deliver so many gifts all around the world, in just one night? Well, now you can discover the secret – he brings in the experts – the RAF! This Christmas, train to become one of the RAF’s finest Elf Cadets at the RAF Museum in London. Learn how to load the sleigh, pick the right aircraft for the job and map a route for Santa, and so much more. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/ whats-going-on/events/elf-cadets Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec – Festive Weekend at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) A special festive season weekend opening. Find out about how we celebrated in the past and enjoy some of the Museum’s historic buildings decked out with traditional decorations. Costumed inhabitants will be bringing the historic buildings to life. There will be family activities including crafts and storytelling. 10am-4pm. www.coam.org.uk/events/festiveweekend Sat 2 – Sun 3 Dec - Christmas Fair at Fulham Palace (SW6) Head to this indoor and outdoor Christmas market at the beautifully decorated Palace! The market includes a variety of small business stalls filled with fine foods and gifts, perfect for buying some thoughtful presents. Between browsing stalls and enjoying mulled wine, explore the additional festivities. Children can enjoy face painting, swing boats and free crafts. www.fulhampalace.org/whats-on/ events/christmas-fair Sat 2–Sun 3 Dec - Family Fun Weekends (SE10) Spend a spectacular day out at Cutty Sark with workshops and activities for all ages. Meet characters from Cutty Sark’s past and sing along with the resident sea shanty singers - for the real sailor experience, why not dress up as a member of Cutty Sark’s crew? www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/cuttysark/family-fun-weekend Familiesonline.co.uk
Sat 9–Sun 10 Dec – Duck Pond Artisan Market (N6) Duck Pond Market returns to Lauderdale House for another craft fair on 9 & 10 December from 11am to 5pm! The Market combines the magic of a festival with interesting stalls, local, sustainable and ethical food, crafts, homewares and arts. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/ whats-on/duck-pond-artisanmarket Sat 9 – Sun 17 Dec Lights and Sights (WC2E) Join the London Transport Museum for their much-loved Lights & Sights tours. You’ll journey through the West End’s dazzling festive light displays and illuminated landmarks on a classic vintage heritage bus. While you wait for your journey to begin, design your very own Oyster card holder while the kids enjoy some festive colouring sheets. www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/ heritage-vehicle-outings/lightsand-sights Sun 10 Dec - Family Workshop: Mini Christmas Wreaths (HA2) Go and make a beautiful Mini Christmas Wreath using colourful fabric and ribbon scraps and reclaimed sequins, buttons and beads. 11am, 12:30pm & 2pm at Headstone Manor & Museum. www.headstonemanor.org/ events/family-workshop-minichristmas-wreaths Fri 10 Nov - Family Under 5’s Workshops: Fantasy Exhibition (NW1) Take a storytelling journey through the Fantasy: Realms of Imagination exhibition at the British Library. The perfect first exhibition experience for little adventurers. Ages 0–5. www.bl.uk/events/family-under5s-workshops-fantasy-exhibition Mon 11 Dec - Bach to Baby Family Concerts in Harrow (HA1) Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. At St John’s Church. 4-4:45pm. www.bachtobaby.com Sat 16 Dec - Christmas Crafts (UB8) Create your own Christmas card or decoration at Uxbridge Library. Free, but booking is essential. 1011am and 11.15am-12.15pm. discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/ article/11748/Christmas-Crafts Sat 16 Dec - Jack and the Beanstalk (WD3) Climb the enormous beanstalk up into the clouds. Help Jack be brave and escape the giants castle. Join
Sat 16 – Sun 17 Dec – Christmas at Bigshots Golf (HA1) Join us for our Big Christmas weekend at BigShots Gold Northwick Park! Christmas markets, Santa’s grotto, Free activity station. www.bigshotsgolfuk.com Sat 16 – Sun 17 Dec - Winter Lights (N3) Take Christmassy walk around the lit-up gardens at Stepehns House and Gardens. 5.30-7.30pm. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com/events Wed 20 Dec - Tiny Troopers: Christmas Crafts (SW3) Sing, play and create with your little ones at these fun, sensory sessions at the National Army Museum, perfect for ages 2 to 5.
In December, you will be learning all about how Princess Mary gave hope to thousands of servicemen and women during the First World War, before making your very own Princess Mary Christmas gift tin. www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/tinytroopers-christmas-crafts Thu 21 & Fri 22 Dec - Ruislip Woods Family Walk (HA4) Go on a gentle stroll, playing games and learning about Ruislip Woods. This family walk will start and end at the Woodlands Centre at Ruislip Lido and be followed by craft event. Ages 4+. discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/familywalk Thu 21–Sun 24 Dec & Tue 26 Dec Twilight Express 2023 (HA4) The Twilight Express service at Ruislip Lido Railway is back by popular demand, a fantastic family evening out. Your journey begins at Willow Lawn and operates non-stop back to Willow Lawn via Woody Bay, taking you through the woods at night, allowing you to spot all the decorations in the dark! www.ruisliplidorailway.org/events Thu 21 Dec - Sun 7 Jan - The Revel Puck Circus: The Wing Scuffle Spectacular (N2) Join The Revel Puck Circus for their exhilarating festive show in East Finchley’s Cherry Tree Wood. Jam-packed with riotous and mind-blowing moments, this alternative homegrown circus is this Winter’s must-see for thrill-seekers young and old. www.artsdepot.co.uk/familycircus-christmas/revel-puckcircus-wing-scuffle-spectacular
CHRISTMAS AT BIGSHOTS! Join us for our Big Christmas weekend at BigShots Golf Northwick Park! Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th December!
Christmas Market Free activity station
Santa’s Grotto
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER You’ll receive exclusive offers including our 12 days of BigMas! bigshotsgolfuk.com
@bigshotsgolfuk Families North West London 15