London – one of the most magical cities you could ever hope to visit. With its iconic landmarks, range of unique districts and things to do around every corner, it sits as the ideal city break destination. What’s more, during the festive season, the buzz is even better than usual.

Whatever your preferences, there’s bound to be something for you to get stuck into, and getting around central London on public transport is incredibly easy. Canary Wharf tube station sits on the Jubilee Line and is just a short walk from us, and Poplar DLR is even closer.

Here are just a few of the many great activities on offer across the capital this year.

For Families

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland has come back with a bang, and the festivities continue all the way through to January 3rd. Featuring fairground rides, ice-skating, family shows and Christmas markets, they really do have everything for children and adults alike.

Alternatively, WWT London Wetland Centre this year plays host to a special illuminature light trail, featuring illuminated sculptures and interactive displays that will leave you saying wow.

Rather step indoors? Then a visit to London Transport Museum in Covent Garden could be the perfect solution – with some extra special seasonal activities taking place throughout December, including a quest to help Santa fix up his sleigh. You could even check out the Christmas Market while you’re in the area too.

And of course, you can never really go wrong with a good old pantomime – Theatre Royal Stratford East is showing Red Riding Hood this year.

For Couples

On the lead-up to Christmas, some of London’s most famous streets are home to a range of dazzling lights that make for ideal Instagram fodder, as well as leaving you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. We challenge you to think of anything more romantic than a tour of these spectacular displays.

Have something bigger in mind? With a whopping 38 theatres in the West End alone, it’s safe to say London knows what it’s doing when it comes to live entertainment. Treat your special someone to an unforgettable date of drinks and a show and you’re sure to find your way into their good books!

Or, opt for a fabulously festive cinematic classic, such as Love Actually or Home Alone, at Luna Cinema instead.

If you’re the active type, perhaps you’d rather twirl around in style on Canary Wharf’s famed ice rink – or at the very least use the slippery surface as an excuse to hold your partner close (for balance reasons, obviously).

For Christmas Shoppers

If there’s anywhere you can get all your Christmas shopping done, it’s London.

For high-end retail, head to Selfridges or Bond Street. For independent and vintage offerings, think Camden or Shoreditch, and for toys and gifts, Harrods or Hamleys. And for a little mix of everything, our neighbouring district of Canary Wharf or Stratford’s Westfield Shopping Centre are also great choices.

London is home to a myriad of both German and Scandinavian-style Christmas Markets at this time of year too – and Southbank Centre’s Winter Market with its corresponding Winter Lights display is one of our personal favourites! Alternatively, the Thursday Night market at Hackney Bridge is also something special. Whichever you opt for, the food, drink, decorations and gifts on offer are sure to be second-to-none.

If you do plan on spending your Christmas in the capital, The Lansbury is available for bookings throughout the season. Call us on 020 3489 5050 to reserve a room today.