8 Reasons This Is Our New Favourite London Spot For Christmas

London comes alive at Christmas, with so many things to do and see in the lead-up to the 25th of December. In fact, there’s so much scattered across the capital that it can feel almost overwhelming. But what if we told you there’s only one place you really need to go that has it all: from shopping and exciting activities to great food and epic sights? Enter: Battersea Power Station. Here are eight reasons this is our new go-to London Christmas spot…
In Partnership With Battersea Power Station
I love that Battersea Power Station is so iconic, and just a 3 min walk from both the river and Battersea Park, so I can get an outdoor nature fix either before or after my retail therapy.
Robyn, Managing Director at The Handbook
1. Ice skating
It’s not quite Christmas until you’ve gone ice skating, right? And Battersea Power Station is home to London’s only riverside ice rink. Now open until 5th January, Boots presents Glide at Battersea Power Station consists of three interconnected rinks surrounding a 30ft Christmas tree, which is a sure-fire way to get you feeling some kind of festive.
When you want to give your feet a break, pop into The Glass House – a cosy spot offering everything from pizza and drinks to themed music nights and quizzes.
2. Christmas Markets
In addition to the mega retail offering (more on that later), Battersea Power Station hosts a series of markets that support a range of local, small businesses where shoppers can discover new brands and pick out unique gifts, ranging from cards and jewellery to prints, soaps and much more.
The King’s Trust Market will take place on 23rd November, supporting small businesses and the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Then, the Salad Days Market returns for two weekends (30th November-1st December, 7th-8th December) with over 60 independent makers.
The Curated Makers Christmas Market (7th-22nd December) rounds off the calendar with products from more than 40 local small businesses, with handcrafted gifts.
3. Showstopping decorations
Battersea Power Station is going all-out with its Christmas decorations this year. Inside the iconic landmark, bespoke new decorations inspired by the landmark’s Art Deco design have been unveiled.
If you’re looking for a Christmassy photo with your loved ones, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
Over 150 Christmas trees of all shapes and sizes are spread across the neighbourhood, including a 40ft tree in Malaysia Square adorned with over 1,500 baubles.
In the riverside piazza, you’ll spy even more baubles, but this time they’re supersized as part of a festive installation, along with a trail of XXL candy canes on Electric Boulevard. So if you’re looking for a Christmassy photo with your loved ones, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
4. Plenty to do, see & watch
At Santa’s School For Elves, kids can meet the big man himself and learn the skills they need to become one of Santa’s little helpers. The 25-minute group sessions cover topics such as Elf & Fitness and Arts & Elfy Crafts, plus, before they go, every child will be gifted an official Elf hat and Elf Academy certificate.
Grown-ups, be sure to check out the festive arts and crafts sessions where you can do everything from candle painting to calligraphy. Then, once everyone’s ticked off their to-do lists, regroup with the whole crew to watch a Christmas classic at The Cinema in The Power Station.
5. All the shops you could ask for
You’re more than aware that your Christmas shopping isn’t going to do itself, but what if you could tick it all off on the same day? Better yet, what if you could also get your Christmas party outfit while you’re there?
With over 150 British and international brands including Zara, Reformation, ME+EM, Space NK, Chanel Beauty, Jo Malone London and more, all your fashion and accessories bases are covered.
You’re more than aware that your Christmas shopping isn’t going to do itself, but what if you could tick it all off on the same day?
6. Great foodie options
Rather than trying to blitz your visit, so you can be in and out as soon as possible, you’ll find you want to hang around after you’ve ticked off your shopping. With over 50 of the city’s best restaurants and bars spread across the riverside, including names like Dishoom, El Pastor, Gordon Ramsay Bread Street Kitchen & Bar, not to mention the Arcade Food Hall, you’ll be spoilt for dining options. For those craving a festive tipple, head to Searcys Champagne Bar for a glass of fizz, or choose from over 100 wines from around the world at Vagabond Wines.
7. Unparalleled views
If you haven’t already been, Christmas is the perfect time to book in for the Lift 109 experience. The glass elevator, located within the building’s northwest chimney, offers 360-degree views of the city skyline in all its festive glory. Now that’s a pretty epic way to finish a festive day out.
Now that’s a pretty epic way to finish a festive day out!
8. Easy to get to
While parking is available at Battersea Power Station, getting there is just as easy by public transport – perfect for those looking to avoid gridlock traffic. Located on the Northern Line, Battersea Power Station’s Underground station is a short trip from the centre of town (less than 20 minutes from London Bridge). Alternatively, if you want to mix things up and take a more scenic route, you can also arrive via Uber Boat by Thames Clippers river bus.
For more information on all the activities Battersea Power Station has coming up, visit www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk