It’s the final weekend before Christmas. Check out the best things to do in London this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
A WALK IN THE PARK
With award-winning parklands waterways and playgrounds that are free to visit every day. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the perfect place to get a little December fresh-air fun. With former Olympic and Paralympic venues – including London Stadium, the London Aquatics Centre, the Copper Box Arena and Lee Valley VeloPark, there is plenty to see and do at the park over the coming days.
queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/
MARKET STROLLS
Greenwich’s streets look straight out of ‘A Christmas Carol’ come December. Take a wander around stalls with handmade gifts and tasty produce at its market. Open until December 20.
DESIGNER SAMPLE SALE
YMC, Folk Clothing and Oliver Spencer – three of the best British contemporary brands are coming together for a three-day sample sale at The Boiler House in London. £1 entry with proceeds going to The Avenues Youth Project. Friday 18 – Sunday 20 December, 152 Brick Lane, London, E1 6RU.
TATE BRITAIN
Tate Britain has unveiled a brand-new winter commission. Chila Kumari Singh Burman has created a stunning technicolor installation for Tate Britain’s iconic facade. The commission references mythology, Bollywood, radical feminism, political activism and family memories, bound up in a celebration of neon light and swirling colour.
CHRISTMAS IN COVENT GARDEN
This festive season Covent Garden is the ideal place to experience Christmas magic with an open-air sparkling Piazza. Some 115,000 twinkling lights, glossy mistletoe chandeliers and a 60-foot Christmas tree. Did we mention the daily ‘snowfalls’?
HACKNEY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Bohemia Place’s regular market goes fully festive in December selling seasonal treats and gifts from local independent traders. Pick up trees, decorations, artisan products and festive street food with vegan options!
COUNTRYSIDE VIEWS
Walthamstow Reservoir has reopened to the public after undergoing an £8.7 million redevelopment since 2012. Consisting of ten reservoirs, the 211-hectare Walthamstow Wetlands will form the largest urban wetland in Europe. It’s a prime wildlife-spotting site, particularly for swans, kestrels and geese – though it should be noted that dogs are not permitted on the site in order to protect the wildlife. It’s a place to fish, spy, walk and run!
