London this time of year can be beautiful. It can also be crowded and expensive. But beyond the crowds of the traditional attractions such as Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, there are more and more amazing winter events popping up around the Capital. Here is our list of alternative events to visit this Christmas:

• Winterville, Clapham Common

Winterville is a festive fairground of rides, food stands and Christmas stalls. This Christmas market has it all going on, whether you fancy a session of ice skating, roller blading, golfing or simply fancy a wander around to see the festivities, we would recommend Winterville. If you are planning on visiting we would advise checking out availability of tickets for the Backyard cinema, which is located in Winterville. Walk through an enchanted forest into an immersive pop-up cinema showing all the Christmas classics. https://winterville.co.uk/attraction/backyard-cinema/

• Enchanted Eltham

Take a walk through the grounds of Eltham Palace this winter to experience the beauty of the grounds in a whole new light. The enchanting trail meanders through the historic grounds and twinkling trees. But the star of the show is the spectacular projections of light which shine on the ancient architecture. There’s also fairground stalls, rides, toasted marshmellows and mulled wine to warm your cockles. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/eltham-enchanted-20-12-18/

• After Dark, Chiswick House and Gardens

After Dark is a new night walk filled with contemporary light installations which take you through the grounds of Chiswick House. The walk allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the grounds and view the spectacular light show curated by lighting designer Nick Gray. And don’t worry, food is at hand! Street food is available in the grounds to fill up whilst watching the spectacular light show. https://www.after-dark.co.uk/

• Canary Wharf Ice Skating

Get your skates on! The festive tradition is always a winner with family, friends or for date night. Head on over to Canary Wharf for a session of skating around the 1200 sq m rink. Rink-side there is also plenty of restaurants, bars and shops to make your trip extra fun. The rink is open seven days a week up until February 2019. http://www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk/

• Southbank Winter Fesitval

Take a wander along the Southbank this winter. It is filled with twinkly lights, Christmas stalls and plenty to eat and drink. You can rent out a riverside igloo or simply wonder around the Christmas market. It’s also worth checking out the Southbank Centre’s Christmas shows to make your trip even more special. This December they are showing the family classic, Rumplestiltskin. https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/festivals-series/winter

• Skylight at Tobacco Dock

I love a rooftop bar, and Skylight seems to have all my winter favourites: cocktails, food and ice skating. If you’re heading up as a group, be sure to reserve an igloo for a snug night of drinking and eating! There’s also winter games to get involved in. https://www.skylightlondon.com/