5 Christmas experiences every Canadian student should have while studying in London

While the weather is getting colder, Christmas season in London is just warming up, and it has been said that there is nothing more festive than London at Christmas. So, as a Canadian student studying in London, you’ll be right in the centre of all the Christmas action. But what is worth seeing?

In this blog, we explore the five Christmas experiences every Canadian student should have:

Ice skate in Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf, the business district, provides an extravagant backdrop for an ice rink that is like no other. But who would expect just a normal ice rink in Canary Wharf?

This one has an iced path that allows skaters to dash away from the main rink and glide and slide under trees filled with fairy lights: you couldn’t get more magical (or romantic). If you’re a beginner and are feeling a little nervous, there are seal-shaped skate aids that are available to keep you on your feet and off the floor!

To make this experience even better, there’s a pop-up bar and restaurant that serves everything from sandwiches to hot cheese fondue. Yummy!

Oxford Street Christmas Lights

The Oxford Street Christmas Lights are spectacular, year after year.

This year, heading down to Oxford Street for the Christmas light switch-on, you will see an incredible 1778 snowball decorations and their 750,000 LED light bulbs light up, which is mind blowing and the perfect opportunity for a great Instagram picture. Don’t forget to #LoveLDNstudy!

If you choose to wander down to Oxford Street for the Christmas lights (which you should, by the way), you will also see live musical performances. No word yet on who the stars will be this year, but previous years have seen appearances from Jessie J and the Spice Girls!

A Christmas Pantomime

Pantomimes are a Christmas tradition in the UK and, despite what you might have heard, they’re not just for kids (although they will make you feel a little childish, in a good way).

London is full of theatrical types and drama groups, which mean there are many pantomimes from which to choose. Most pantomimes are the classics like Cinderella, Snow White or Peter Pan, which will really take you back to your childhood.

While pantomimes can be a little bit pricey, don’t let it put you off. You definitely won’t regret seeing the show. Don’t be afraid to get involved, either!

Winter Wonderland

Here you really will be walking in a winter wonderland…

Described as getting the ‘fastest fix of the Christmas spirt in London,’ Winter Wonderland allows to indulge in everything from traditional winter markets, festive fairground rides, and the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink with a Victorian bandstand that plays music while you skate around magical grottos.

This amazing place must be expensive right? Wrong. The entry to Winter Wonderland is FREE – although tickets for attractions such as ice skating, the ice kingdom (which will increase in size again this year with more ice sculptures and a frozen forest) and the ice bar need to be paid for. It’s also advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

A Christmas Market

Looking for gift inspiration or just want to get into the Christmas spirit? Head down to a Christmas market near you! And we say near you because they will be all over London!

From affordable arts and crafts to vintage jewellery or cheesy Christmas jumpers – you’ll find everything Christmas at one of the markets. There are so many to choose from that it’s really difficult to recommend the BEST. But, if you’re heading over to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, make sure you check out the market! Other festive markets to visit are listed here.

Interested in studying in London? Why not get in touch with one of our advisors today! Or, download our eBook below, for all of the need to know information about being a Canadian student in London.

Photo credit: Timeout