Magical Christmas events
DARE we say it but it’s now probably time to start giving some thought to Christmas. Particularly if you are hoping to visit some of the fantastic Christmas events which take place not far from west London.
There is festive family fun at Legoland and Chessington, a top London panto, ice rinks, a winter wonderland, steam train journeys and even Lapland in the UK and a Christmas treat for Harry Potter fans.
Many we have listed are on sale now so you will want to get booking quick.
In no particular order of preference, we list Christmas events not far from Uxbridge , Ealing and Harrow you should book now or soon.
The Christmas festival returns with more than 100 rides and attractions including ice skating, shows, circus, roller coaster rides, street food stalls, festive bars and live music.
You can also skate on the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, take a journey into The Enchanted Forest at The Magical Ice Kingdom, fly on an immersive cinematic adventure with The Snowman Experience, watch Peter Pan on Ice and see it all from above on the Giant Observation Wheel.
Although you will need to book tickets to the big attractions, it’s free to enter the grounds and soak up the atmosphere. Dates: November 23 2018 - January 6 2019 Tickets: On sale now at www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
Kew Gardens transforms into a magical after dark explosion of festive colour, as visitors embark on an illuminated trail. You will encounter the Field of Light, enter the mesmerising laser garden and see 300 illuminated origami boats floating on the water.
There are Firework Trees, the Cathedral of Light, and a fire garden. The Palm House finale sees the pond and glasshouse spring to life with an explosion of colourful criss-crossing laser beams, jumping jets of light, and projections playing across a giant water screen.
Santa and his helpers perform along the trail, and there will be a fairground. Dates: November 22-January 5 Tickets: On sale now from www.kew.org/ christmas
Dawn French stars alongside returning Lon- don Palladium pantomime royalty Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Gary Wilmot, joined by Strictly Come Dancing’s Vincent & Flavia in Snow White, London’s must-see panto. Dates: December 8 2018 - January 13 2019 Tickets: On sale now at www.snowwhitepalladium.com
Youngsters can wonder at the twinkling lights, snow-dusted pine trees, exciting sea- sonal festivities and see the park as they have never seen it before… all with a sprinkling of Lego magic. Dates: December 1-2, 8-9 and 15-23 2018 Tickets: On sale now at www.legoland.co.uk
Where better to see Santa than in the famous London toyshop? As part of a group session, children will hear magical stories of Christmas, write their own Christmas wish list