It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas here on the quay. From meeting Santa aboard a floating grotto and stepping back in time at a traditional Victorian Christmas to raising a glass at a Bavarian festive celebration, there's something to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Whether you're planning a magical family day out, a festive meal with friends, or simply looking for somewhere special to soak up the seasonal atmosphere, here are five ways to celebrate Christmas with us.
Visit Santa on the water
Three French hens, two turtle doves and… is that Father Christmas aboard a Skuna grotto? That’s right! On the 5th and 6th December, little ones can climb aboard Santa’s very own floating grotto for Santa on the Water. Set sail on a festive adventure, take part in a magical present hunt and meet Father Christmas himself aboard his beautifully decorated igloo boat.
Say Prost! To a Bavarian Christmas
Fancy swapping traditional Christmas carols for a little Bavarian cheer? Munich Cricket Club is bringing a taste of Germany to the quay this Christmas, transforming its venue into a festive Alpine wonderland. Think overflowing beer steins, a lively Oompah band, festive games and plenty of opportunities to get up and dance.
Step into a Victorian Christmas
The ghost of Christmas past has arrived at the quayside, giving little ones and their families a chance to experience Christmas gone by. Travel back to Victorian London from 20th November to 23rd December, where Santa prepares to welcome little visitors to his very own Dickensian-style Grotto at London Museum Docklands.
Wander through the festively decorated Sailortown gallery, soak up the old-fashioned Christmas magic and meet Father Christmas himself. Little ones who make the nice list will even receive a special gift to take home.
Get merry in a winter igloo
Looking for a festive hideaway? We know just the place! The Sipping Room has brought back its iconic winter igloos, transforming its alfresco terrace into a cosy Christmas retreat. Dressed with twinkling lights and lush foliage, these magically decorated hideaways are the perfect spot to escape and enjoy a little festive indulgence.
Settle in with the new seasonal igloo menu, featuring delicious dishes such as wild mushroom arancini, indulgent desserts like the winterberry and apple crumble and seasonal spritzes like the Banana Frost and Honey Roasted Pineapple Margarita.
Sing in the season
Fancy adding a little traditional Christmas cheer to your festive plans? Step aboard St Peter's Barge at West India Quay and join the local community for a seasonal singalong. Every Wednesday lunchtime throughout December, Carol Services will fill the barge with much-loved Christmas carols, festive readings and plenty of seasonal spirit.
Warm up with a glass of mulled wine, tuck into a delicious mince pie and enjoy time to reflect on the meaning of Christmas. There's also a special Christmas Day Carol Service on 25th December, from 11am to 12:15pm, offering a lovely way to celebrate with the local community.
So, round up your favourite people, add your festive plans to the diary, and discover everything waiting for you this season at West India Quay. We can’t wait to welcome you.
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