London’s Festive Gingerbread City Returns
The return of this much-beloved Christmas tradition is bringing a whole new meaning to sugar, spice and everything nice. The Museum of Architecture (MOA) is unveiling this year’s Gingerbread City starting the 29th November, and we couldn’t be more excited (and admittedly, very hungry).
The MOA Gingerbread City has become a London Christmas staple, but it’s not your typical homemade gingerbread house. Their architects and designers have come together to build this year’s expansive city, constructed entirely of edible materials. Each building, object, and piece of scenery is carefully crafted using different sweets and features classic materials like gingerbread, candy, and frosting.
Each building, object, and piece of scenery is carefully crafted using different sweets.
What does the MOA do?
The MOA is a charity that seeks to connect the public with the spaces they live and work in. Every ticket sold goes towards funding their pop-up events, which helps them staff this Gingerbread City with leading architects and designers each year to make the exhibition seriously impressive.
What’s this year’s gingerbread theme?
Each year, the theme of the city shapes the creative vision and inspiration behind every structure and installation. This year’s theme, “The Playful City,” celebrates the transformative power of fun, curiosity, and imaginative design in shaping urban life. The exhibition explores how cities can become happier, healthier, and more connected when creativity and play are at their core. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide array of designs, from vibrant, interactive public spaces that encourage engagement and social connection, to rewilded rooftops and innovative buildings that invite movement, exploration, and joy. The installations highlight how thoughtful design can not only delight the senses but also inspire new ways of thinking about the role of play in everyday city life.
What other activities are offered?
The fun doesn’t end with the city tour, as the Museum is also offering gingerbread workshops. These workshops are held on some Fridays, all Saturdays and Sundays and weekdays during week of Christmas. Participants can craft their own gingerbread house using kits made-to-order by an award-winning baker.
Each ticket is one gingerbread-house kit, and is encouraged for for 2 to 4 people. The event is a great activity for families, friends, or a weekend date after you enjoy the sights of the gingerbread metropolis for a little creative inspo. Tickets for the exhibition and workshop are sold separately, so you’ll need to grab a ticket for both if you want the whole experience.
This year also introduces two exclusive baking experiences led by Great British Bake Off star Pui Man, held at Coal Drops Yard. Guests can book a luxurious High Tea & Gingerbread House Decorating workshop, complete with EL&N’s seasonal treats, or opt for the Family-Friendly Gingerbread Cookie Decorating session, perfect for up to two children and one adult. Both workshops offer hands-on festive fun with Pui Man’s expert guidance, and spaces are limited, so booking ahead is essential.
Participants can craft their own gingerbread house using kits made-to-order by an award-winning baker.
Visitors can also engage with the interactive ‘gingerbread button,’ developed by sponsor and AI design platform Gendo. This playful feature invites guests to step into a world of imagination, allowing them to transform themselves into charming, personalized gingerbread figures. By combining cutting-edge AI technology with hands-on creativity, the experience is both fun and immersive, encouraging visitors of all ages to explore, experiment, and interact in a delightful new way. Whether striking a pose or sharing their gingerbread alter ego with friends, guests become an active part of the exhibition, turning a simple moment of play into a memorable experience.
Where is this year’s exhibition, how long is it open, and where can I buy tickets?
This festive exhibition is a treat for the eyes only, but snagging a ticket for a workshop gives you a taste of the action to create with loved ones and bring home. Why not satisfy your sweet tooth and do both?
Exhibition entry for adults aged 12 and over is priced at £13.50, and entry for children aged 3-12 is £8.50. Gingerbread workshop slots are priced at £79 for one house-making kit. The Family-Friendly Gingerbread Cookie Decorating with Pui Man session costs £30.00 plus and the High Tea Gingerbread House Decorating with Pui Man experience costs £120.00 per person. Tickets can be purchased here.
The location of this sweet exhibition varies each year since its inception in 2016, and this year’s event will be hosted at Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross. The event is expected to draw just as many visitors as it has in previous years, with time slots selling fast during its run from 29th November to 4th January.
