The cold is setting in, and winter has arrived in London. However don’t let this stop you exploring this beautiful city, just grab yourself a hat and scarf and get outside! I have found some of my favourite places in London and narrowed them down to a select few that are great to do on a crisp day. Just remember to wrap up warm and you shall be well on your way – however be prepared for a hot chocolate pit stop!
Word on the Water – This is a Dutch barge that has been transformed into a beautiful floating bookshop and can be found anywhere along Regent’s Canal, however it is often near Broadway Market. As well as great priced books they have a warming wood burning stove (perfect for catching some heat before facing the frosty air), they are dog friendly and you can even catch an occasional live jazz performance. To find out where the barge is on the canal you can check their Facebook page HERE for the latest updates.
Shakespeare’s Globe – As the seasons change and get colder the plays move from the open air theatre into the intimate Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. This is a recreated Jacobean indoor theatre complete with an oak frame, ornate roof and even 17th century lighting. This is an intense place where people to the sides of the stage are within touching distance of the actors which is is really important to the feeling of the theatre. There is a flat stage, and in the absence of wings there is no scenery so the audience have to draw the scene from nothing but words and a few props. The part that grabs me is the candlelight, it is an unexpected feature that takes the space totally back in time – a truly beautiful touch. Although they could have gone the easy route and installed a modern light they have placed a naked- flamed candelabra and plenty of candles around the theatre – they even find their way into the hands of actors!
Emirates Air Line – This is the UK’s first urban cable car at 1.1km. The route provides a river crossing between the royal docks and the O2 arena in Greenwich. The cable cars can carry up to 2,500 people per hour in each direction which is the equivalent of 30 buses but with this you get fantastic views over the city including Canary Wharf, Thames Barrier, and the Olympic park. You can opt for single cash fares or Oyster pay-as-you-go. Travellers get a discount, as do Travelcard and other Oystercard holders, though it is necessary for Travelcard and other Oystercard holders to buy a boarding pass. You can even do a ‘360 degree tour’ non-stop return journey! Fares are not included in the Oyster daily capping.
Don’t let the cold stop you from exploring the city embrace it and step out and find something different to do this winter!
