What to do at the London Eye & South Bank at Christmas

 

The London Eye is always on my list of places to take people when they visit the city. Every time I go up in one of the capsules, I can’t help but marvel at the view, proudly showing off my adopted city and the sights up and down the Thames.

At Christmastime the London Eye and the South Bank itself are a wonderfully festive experience – London puts on its brightest face, with sparkles, food and fun. It’s the kind of day out that makes you (or at least me) relish the season here. I’ve been a guest on the Eye several times — here’s what to do on a festive visit to the London Eye and the South Bank. (See full disclosure below.)

A tip from me: While you can book a Champagne tour anytime, there’s something particularly festive about looking at the sparkling lights of London with a glass of fizz this time of year. And whether you have a glass in your hand or not, I always recommend booking Fast Track tickets, which means you are whisked aboard quickly and seamlessly.

 

 

Cool Yule things you can do at the London Eye and on the South Bank:

• Book a Hotel Chocolat Festive Flight. This experience includes a Hotel Chocolate tasting guide, a glass of prosecco, fast track entry, and Hotel Chocolat goodie bag.
• The South Bank Winter Market turns the banks of the Thames into a busting market, with food, gifts, ornaments and twinkling lights. It runs through 5 January 2020. Get more information here.
• See classic festive films at BFI Southbank, including It’s a Wonderful Life, The Muppett Christmas Carol and The Dorm Dripped Blood (seriously)
• Listen to FREE uplifting music with the 12 Choirs of Christmas in the Old Vic foyer. Reserve your ticket here
• Discover all there is to do on the South Bank along with top tips and competitions and offers

You can stay nearby London Marriott County Hall, with views of Big Ben, the Thames and the Eye. The hotel is recently renovated, making it a very chic and luxurious place to stay right in the heart of London. I was there recently on a press visit and it’s ideal for a family getaway, convenient and wonderfully scenic with a fabulous bar featuring cocktails and mocktails with interesting ingredients. One even smokes with dry ice. (Love cocktails? Read my full post about Gillray’s bar and it’s artisanal approach.)

 

Disclosure: Jenography was provided with Fast Track tickets to visit the London Eye during the Christmas season during previous years. All opinions are my own. 

Have a favourite bit of the South Bank during the holidays? Share your experiences and tips in comments!