Top things to do in the Royal Parks this winter
Delve into the magic of winter with serene strolls under frosted trees and seasonal activities that give you that warm fuzzy feeling.
Discover the Hidden Stories of the Royal Parks
Discover the hidden secrets of London’s historic green spaces on a guided walking tour, a perfect addition to your list of winter things to do in London. Our monthly walking tours let you experience the Royal Parks from a whole new perspective during the festive season.
You could go behind the railings of the Albert Memorial, uncover the first public pet cemetery in Britain or explore the dark underbelly of the oldest Royal Park, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere of Christmas activities in London.
When: All year round
Where: Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James’s Park
Carol singers in the Royal Parks
Enjoy some festive cheer as a quartet of carol signers perform in the Royal Parks this December. The singers will be visiting park cafes, as well as The Royal Parks Shop, so you can sip on a hot drink or browse Christmas gifts as the sound of carol singing fills the air.
When: 17 & 19 December, AM & PM
Where: The Regent's Park, St. James's Park, Hyde Park, Bushy Park, Greenwich Park, Kensington Gardens
Greenwich Park Winter Solstice Festival
Join The Royal Parks and the Royal Observatory on 21 December for a day of free activities celebrating the winter solstice and discover the science behind the shortest day of the year.
Enjoy live performances, a craft and food market hosted by the Royal Parks, plus live science demos led by Royal Observatory Greenwich astronomers.
This first ever Winter Solstice Festival event will bring together communities in and around Greenwich for a night of festive cheer, creativity, and awe-inspiring performances, making it an unmissable experience.
When: 21 December, 12pm - 6pm
Where: Greenwich Park
'Tis the season for Christmas treats!
The countdown to Christmas is on and our Royal Parks Christmas box is ready to be opened. With decorations to dress your festive halls, tasty treats for entertaining and gorgeous gifts for all – our curated collections have everything you need to enjoy the season.
Sign up to shop online today at shop.royalparks.org.uk or visit us in person at our Hyde Park Boathouse store along the Serpentine.
Bundle up for a Winter Stroll
Embrace the serene beauty of winter with a stroll through the Royal Parks, where frosted landscapes and crisp air create a peaceful retreat, an essential experience for your list of winter activities.
Each park offers its own unique winter charm with plenty of cozy cafes available to grab a hot drink and slice of cake, adding a delightful touch to your wintry exploration.
Enjoy a Seasonally Inspired All-Day Brunch
From french toast with poached plum to a warming vegan tandoori cauliflower roti, warm up after a long walk at one of our characterful cafes; located with stunning views of the surrounding parks.
The cafe menus are developed to offer the best produce that this time of year has to offer, so immerse yourself in the season's surroundings alongside some delicious winter comfort food.
Where: Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Richmond Park and Bushy Park
Explore Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland returns from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, featuring over 100 rides and attractions. Enjoy family shows like Zippos Christmas Circus, thrilling rides, delicious street food, and the UK’s largest open-air Ice Rink. Highlights include free off-peak sessions, festive shopping, new rides and games, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland in the Magical Ice Kingdom and more.
Exclusive perks and promotions include unlimited rides in Santaland with the £25 Santaland Pass, saving 20% on Magical Ice Kingdom and Ice Skating during off-peak times, and the £45 Five Peaks Pass with fast track on five thrilling rides.
When: 21 November - 5 Jan
Where: Hyde Park
Winter Carriage Rides in Richmond Park
This Christmas, experience Richmond Park like never before with a ride in a six-person Park Brake carriage drawn by our majestic Shire Horses. Enjoy the sounds of hoofs and bells, revel in the crisp air and watch the wildlife up close while you snuggle under a blanket...and have some seasonal refreshments to truly get into the festive spirit!
When: 30 November - 1 January
Where: Richmond Park
Winter Carriage Rides in Bushy Park
Rediscover the magic of Bushy Park this Christmas in a whole new way. Enjoy a glorious carriage ride with The Royal Parks Shire horses, with proceeds supporting conservation initiatives in the park.
When: 21 December - 24 December
Where: Bushy Park
Christmas Carol Concert at The Holly Lodge Centre
Join our friends at The Holly Lodge Centre this December for an evening of festive celebrations at their Christmas Carol Concert.
When: 5 December
Where: The Holly Lodge Centre, Richmond Park
Boating on The Serpentine
Boating on the Serpentine takes on a unique charm during autumn and winter. As the leaves change colour and fall, the lake is surrounded by a tapestry of rich, warm hues, creating a magnificent backdrop for your boat ride. Hire a pedalo or a row boat to enjoy a unique perspective of Hyde Park from the water. Sail around Heron Island in the crisp air, go to the Serpentine Bridge and back, then treat yourself to a warming hot drink at the end.
When: Open Wednesdays to Sundays, 10am - dusk (weather dependant)
Where: The Serpentine, Hyde Park
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