London- 9 tips for the cold season
Days are getting shorter, colorful leaves lying on the road, a smell of plum cake and pumpkin soup. It’s time again: finally autumn and winter is around the corner. We love the bright colorful season and give you nine reasons why even during cold weather London is worth a trip.
The City of Musicals
In London there is a wide variety of musicals and plays. As a companion to the mystical autumn we recommend “Wicked” the musical in the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London. It tells the story of a friendship between two girls who could not be more different. Together they embark on a journey through Oz and experience thrilling adventures that change their lives. The musical was honored by more than 90 international awards and is permitted from age seven. Let yourself be enchanted in 2 hours and 45 minutes and be part of a magical story.
Sunshine and long walks
There is nothing more beautiful than a sunny autumn day. Spend the day in Hyde Park in Westminister and take a walk through the colorful sea of leaves. Hyde Park measures 142 acres, with over 4000 colourful trees.
It belongs to one of the largest Royal Parks of London. Enjoy the glittering blaze of colors and let the sun pamper you. If you get cold feets, you can warm up with a hot chocolate, a cup of tea or a coffee in one of the two lake-side restaurants.
Even the Modern Hall Park offers something for both young and old. Learn more about the history of the park with an one-hour guided tour. On the ecological playground, children can live out their fantasies and you can take a romantic stroll through the garden of roses. Your autumn day is guaranteed to be a special experience. You quickly forget that you are in the middle of the capital London.
Winter Festival for young and old
The Southbank’s “Winter Festival” attracts young and old with a Christmas market in Hyde Park from mid-November to early January (except on Christmas Day). Stroll through the winter village. You can find a large selection of unique gifts, crafts, jewelry and christmas decoration in about 200 stalls. Let yourself be enchanted by the unicorn made of ice and the snow queen in her castle in the winter wonderland. If you spontaneously decide to go for a swish on the ice and do not have your skates with you, then you can borrow them. For all of you who are in search of action and excitement there are roller coaster, flying swings at an altitude of 60 meters and a tunnel of horror.
Christmas reading
“Marley was dead, to begin with … This must be distintly understood, or nothing wonderful can come of the story I am going to relate.”
Who is not familiar with the lines of the famous Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. In December, you can watch how the heartless, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge transforms into a generous and friendly man. A violin and other special guests, will accompany the reading. Let yourself be surprised. Last years seats were quickly sold out. Do not hesitate and get your tickets now.
A clown and lots of snow
The play “Salva´s Snow Show” also promises a lot of fun for the whole family. It is in the program since 2000. Slava Polunin a russian artist created the show and first it was performed in Russia in 1993. The Play won the Drama Desk Award for a unique theatrical experience. Slava, the best clown in the world, wearing red shoes and a yellow, fluffy suit lives in a dream world. An unforgettable comedy with flying balls and ankle-deep snow.
Sparkles in the sky
Marvel not just one magnificent firework in London at the “Bonfire Night” in November. In 1605 Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Parliament and King James I. Finally, on November 5 he was caught. Since then, this day is celebrated with fireworks. You can see the sparkles in different places in London. Inform yourself, the offer is varied.
Travel back in time
1215 King John tried to win more recognition. The inhabitants of London were allowed to choose their own mayor for the first time. However, only under the condition that after his election the new mayor travels to Westminster to swear allegiance to the crown. This custom and practice has been celebrated in London ever since. Normally it takes place in November. Early in the morning at 8.35 clock the royal fleet sets, from 11 a.m. to 14:30 p.m. there is a mile-long procession, with half a million spectators. The day ends with a big display of fireworks.
Program for rainy days
Finally, our tip for a rainy day. In London there are a variety of museums, something can be found for every desire. You too will find what you are looking for. Our tip: 1989, the Design Museum opened. It is located near the London Bridge. From September 2014 to the beginning of March 2015, a special exhibition will take place. “Designers in Residence 2014: Disruption”. Exhibitors have dealt with the topic of disruption by exploring the future residential, judicial loopholes and financial systems. The museum opens daily from 10:00 a.m. to 17:45 p.m.
Travel information
It is low season, so you can find very cheap flights just at this time of the year. Flights are available for the well known Heathrow Airport but also for Stansted, Gatwick and Luton. Nevertheless the latter is located very unfavorable. A Secret among frequent flyers is the London City Airport, which is served by BMI among others. You’ll land almost directly next to the London Eye.
You can find over 1000 cheap accommodation options on 9flats.com/london. Book your city trip now !