Our guide to wonderfully original ways of eating, drinking and making-merry in London this Christmas and beyond…
Berkeley Hotel – Winter Cinema
Whilst the idea of an outdoor cinema might fill you will terror at this time of year, The Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge have transformed their roof terrace adjoining the Health Club & Spa into a winter-wonderland come pine-forest-movie-theatre, the like of which you will never have experienced before! Hotel residents can book the exclusive package for £70 per person (available to external guests on weekends) which includes a classic film along with Champagne and canapés, all whilst being protected from the cold by heat lamps and luxurious Moncler blankets. London’s only private cinema featuring just six seats, screenings will take place at 5pm and 7pm every day until 31st January 2014, with the first couple to book choosing from the black and white ‘Miracle on 34th Street’ or Tim Burton’s atmospheric‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’. If you’re looking for an unusual and romantic Christmas gift for a loved one – this could be it! For more information or to reserve a place telephone the Berkley Health Club & Spa on 0207 201 1699.
The Candlelight Club – Christmas by Candlelight
Saturday 21st December 2013 from 7pm to midnight.
A pop-up 1920s style cocktail party held at a secret location will be aglow with festive cheer and the sounds of Albert Ball’s Flying Aces, The Bees Knees (six professional Charleston dancers) and DJ Auntie Maureen. Should any ladies desire Marcel Waves and favour the professional touch rather than attempt to recreate a You Tube tutorial rather kackhandedly at home, Lipstick and Curls’ pop-up salon will be working their magic at the party. There will also be a full menu of seasonal cocktails and a supper menu including the option for a turkey roast dinner! Ticket holders will be informed of the location via email 2 days prior to the event. Tickets £25 per person. For more information and to book visit the website.
Charles Dickens Museum – A Very Dickensian Christmas
The family home of the great Victorian author for several years, the restored Charles Dickens Museum at 48 Doughty Street is opening its doors this Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day for an evocative and intimate celebration of the festive period. From mulled cider and traditional mince pies to film screenings and lively readings of Dickens’ most popular Christmas stories, guests will be transported to the 19th century with a charming and imaginative combination of sights, scents and tastes. The author we most associate with Christmas due to classic tales such as The Pickwick Papers and A Christmas Carol, in the true spirit of Scrooge the Museum is one of the few in London to be open throughout the holiday period. Advanced booking is advised. Adults £18 Children £8. Open 10am – 5pm daily (last admission strictly 4pm) For more information and to book tickets visit the website.
