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Making memories can last far longer than that bright new shiny toy opened on Christmas day, which is why gifting an experience this Christmas is something that you should be thinking about.
Christmas is traditionally a time of giving. A chance to show your family, your children, friends, neighbours, and extended family how much you care. Choosing a gift can be difficult at times, especially when you put added pressure on yourself to get things right. Obviously, Christmas isn’t just about the gifts, it is all about quality time and spreading joy and love amongst the people you care about. But that doesn’t mean to say that you don’t want to give a gift to someone you care about. Sometimes it can feel like you are buying for buying sake, am I right?
Experiences to Gift this Christmas
This is where giving the gift of an experience can be such a good idea. Many people are considering this option as a gift for their family and friends. In some cases, Christmas can be overwhelming with gifts, and an experience gives that person the chance to not only enjoy the excitement of what is to come but enjoy the experience at a later date as well. However, what sort of experiences are a good gift at Christmas? No matter what age or gender, here are some of the best experiences that you could gift this Christmas.
Festive Shows to enjoy in London
Maddie Moate’s A Very Curious Christmas
Apollo Theatre, West End – TICKETS
Dates: 6 December 2024 – 4 January 2025
This seasonal adventure dives into the science of winter, uncovers the mysteries behind our festive traditions, and answers some of your most curious Christmas questions. Where does snow come from? How do crackers go BANG? And why do Brussels sprouts make you fart?!
Packed with interactive fun and brimming with festive cheer, Maddie’s live science show promises to be an unforgettable and informative holiday treat for the whole family.
The Nutcracker
Polka Theatre, Wimbledon – TICKETS
Dates: 16 November 2024 – 26 January 2025
When Clara receives a super-cool enchanted Nutcracker toy, one thing’s for sure – she doesn’t want her accident-prone little brother, Fritz, anywhere near it! But with rumours of an evil, seven-headed Mouse King trying to ruin Christmas, Clara might just need the help of Fritz to save the day!
Slava’s Snow Show
Harold Pinter Theatre, West End – TICKETS
Dates: 18 December 2024 – 12 January 2025
Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Slava’s SnowShow, a spellbinding spectacle where laughter and wonder collide. It’s a celebration that knows no bounds, uniting people of all walks of life in a shared moment of joyous folly. Slava’s SnowShow is a cavalcade of chaos and charm that invites you to leave the everyday behind and indulge in pure, tender delight.
Join us for an unforgettable experience that promises to sprinkle a little magic into your life and remind you of the joy in being wonderfully silly.
Snowy Day
Polka Theatre, Wimbledon – TICKETS
Dates: 6 December 2024 – 2 February 2025
Discover a world blanketed in wonder in this brand-new dance adaptation of ‘The Snowy Day’, inspired by the award-winning picture book by Ezra Jack Keats. Join Peter as he crunches through the snowy streets of his New York neighbourhood, in this intimate and interactive icy adventure.
Stick Man
Bloomsbury Theatre, Bloomsbury
Dates: 4 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree in time for Christmas?
This much-loved adaptation from Freckle Productions, the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.
Pantomimes to enjoy in London this Christmas
Cinderella (Family Version)
Kings Head Theatre, Islington – TICKETS
Dates: 30 November 2024 – 5 January 2025
Cinderella needs help to leave her life of drudgery and explore a world full of adventures. A shy Prince needs someone to help bring him out of his shell and find his mojo. Could they help each other find the courage to change their lives? The Fairy Godmother thinks so! So, join her on this romantic roller-coaster of Christmas adventure!
Cinderella (Adults Only Version)
Kings Head Theatre, Islington – TICKETS
Dates: 11, 12 & 19 December 2024
Cinderella needs help to leave her life of drudgery and explore a world full of adventures. A shy Prince needs someone to help bring him out of his shell and find his mojo. Could they help each other find the courage to change their lives? The Fairy Godmother thinks so! So, join her on this romantic roller-coaster of Christmas adventure!
For those of you up past your bedtime, there’s a naughty, adults-only show of the Cinderella Christmas panto with some very special West End stars! Join Cinders as she gets a North London upgrade!
Dick Whittington and his Cat
Hackney Empire, Hackney – TICKETS
Dates: 23 November 2024 – 5 January 2025
Join Dick on his search for fortune, fame and new beginnings! Along the way, he’ll experience the adventure of a lifetime, battling rats, falling in love, and finding himself on the path to becoming the Mayor of London!
Get ready for a joyful reimagining of this classic rags to riches tale, featuring all your favourite pantomime ingredients. From an unbelievable cast to extravagant costumes; from audience participation to sensational song and dance numbers, what more could you ask for?!
Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs
Fairfield Halls, Croydon – TICKETS
Dates: 13 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
Snow White is doomed to live unhappily ever after with her horrid stepmother, the Wicked Queen. In true rags-to-riches style, Snow White manages, with the help of her madcap friend Muddles, to meet a handsome Prince and make her dreams come true.
Croydon’s own Kellie Shirley will star as ‘Wicked Queen’ with Jamie Steen as ‘Dame Dilly Donut’, and panto favourite Charlie Guest returning to Fairfield Halls as ‘Muddles’.
The Royal Ballet’s Cinderella
This Christmas, The Royal Ballet invites you to the ball with Frederick Ashton’s spectacular Cinderella. A fairytale like no other, this magical ballet boasts astonishing stagecraft, enchanting design and exquisite dance. This much-loved ballet is a masterpiece for all the family to enjoy this festive period.
Ashton’s adaptation of Cinderella received its premiere on 23rd December 1948 with Royal Ballet dancers Moira Shearer and Michael Somes in the lead roles. The production was received rapturously with Ashton’s reworking of Charles Perrault’s famous rags-to-riches story proving a compelling showcase for the choreographer’s musicality and the beauty of Sergey Prokofiev’s transcendent score.
This Season Royal Ballet Principals Mayara Magri and Anna Rose O’Sullivan make their debut as Cinderella, with Cesar Corrales, Calvin Richardson, Marcelino Sambé and Joseph Sissens making theirs as The Prince. Fumi Kaneko and William Bracewell perform the lead roles for the live Cinema relay on 10th December.
Cinderella made a welcome return to the stage in 2023 after an absence of over 10 years in a new production with an award-winning creative team steeped in the magic of theatre, film, dance and opera bringing new atmosphere to Cinderella’s ethereal world of fairy godmothers and pumpkin carriages. Set design is by Tom Pye (My Neighbour Totoro, Olivier award for Best Set Design), costume designs by Alexandra Byrne (Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Academy Award for Best Costume Design), lighting design by David Finn (Brokeback Mountain), video design by Finn Ross (Les Miserables, Frozen) and illusions by Chris Fisher (Harry Potter and The Cursed Child).
Days out and Trips
Frameless – Immersive Art Experience
With a festive twist for Christmas, FRAMELESS is a cultural exhibit that even the kids will love!
A day out with a difference and guaranteed to inspire and entertain all ages, you’ll explore the 42 masterpieces from 29 iconic artists from Van Gogh to Dalí, each reimagined through cutting-edge technology, and discover an unexpected world spanning 30,000 square feet in the heart of Central London, just steps from Oxford Street and Marble Arch.
Alongside the four main galleries, there is a new festive-inspired artist residency beginning from 25th November exploring the wonder of the Northern Lights, a specially designed seasonal food and drinks offering in the stunning Café-Bar, and a gift shop brimming with unique present ideas.
Discover more at www.frameless.com
Location: 6 Marble Arch, London W1H 7AP
Monopoly Lifesized
What’s Christmas without a big game of Monopoly? This year, raise the stakes in a Unique 4D Gaming Experience for all the family!
- Crown the ultimate Monopoly champion in this physical version of the world’s favourite board game, where each square acts as an immersive escape room!
- Perfect for family bonding in the run-up to Christmas, you will work to complete challenges, build houses, charge rent, escape jail and even control London’s waterworks whilst earning as much money as you can.
- Hotly discuss the game’s antics afterwards at the ‘Top Hat Bar & Restaurant’, complete with a delicious Monopoly-inspired menu which is bringing a touch of festive sparkle this month. From the ‘Brie Parking Christmas Burger’ to a delectable ‘Mulled Apple Martini’, Top Hat is offering visitors an array of seasonal snacks and tipples.
- Choose your family’s favourite board with a choice between Classic, Luxury, City, and Classic: Own It All
- Located in the heart of London, Monopoly Lifesized includes real-life characters of the legendary board game Tokens as their guides – adding to the family fun for all ages!
- Tickets from £49 pp and Family tickets available with a 20% discount
Discover more at www.monopolylifesized.com
Location: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7PS
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Treat your loved ones to unforgettable moments at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve this Christmas by gifting them one of the Reserve’s glorious gift vouchers. The 600-acre Reserve is Kent’s biggest wildlife park and offers something for everyone, from safari experiences, animal encounters, decadent dining and unique overnight stays.
Instead of leaving a traditional gift under the Christmas tree this year, why not present your loved ones with the perfect experience to make 2024 a truly unforgettable year? What could be a more perfect present than a shared experience, chosen with love and care for those closest to you? Experiences lead to richer memories compared to memories attached to material objects and give a truly personal touch.
Gift Voucher for Safari and Animal Lovers
For your animal-loving friends and family, the incredibly flexible Howletts and Port Lympne gift voucher is valid for all animal experiences, special safaris, annual passes and day tickets at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve or their sister site, Howletts Wild Animal Park.
Whether your loved one is crazy for big cats, or gaga for giraffes and gorillas, there is an unforgettable animal encounter for everyone. Animal encounters offer guests the chance to get up close and personal with their favourite species, spend time with their dedicated Keepers and ask all the questions they’ve always wanted to ask the friendly animal experts at Port Lympne or Howletts.
- Ranger Tour (1 hr 30 mins) £30 – Exclusive VIP ranger-guided tour giving guests the chance to explore the Port Lympne Safari route and its many species, including giraffe, black and white rhino, zebra, wolves, bears and many more.
- Giraffe Safari (2 hrs) £75 – A Giraffe Safari gives guests the chance to actually hand feed Port Lympne’s large herd of giraffes and explore the safari route getting up close and personal to zebras, camels, rhinos, bears and many more.
- AAA Safari (2 hrs 30 mins) £105 – Access All Areas Safari explores the Port Lympne safari route and its many species, allowing guests to have the chance to hand feed the large herd of giraffes and also their rhinos, as well as get up close to zebras, camels, bears and many more.
- Gorilla Encounter (30 mins) £85 – If gorillas are a favourite why not treat your loved one to an up close and personal experience at Port Lympne’s Palace of the Apes? Have the chance to see the new baby gorilla face to face and actually feed the beautiful family of gorillas.
- Gorilla Scatter Feed (15 mins) £30 – If you are mad about gorillas, come and meet the Silverbacks to feed them in their garden
- Brown Bear Scatter Feed (15 mins) £45 – If you are barmy for bears, come and meet our brown bears to feed them their favourite treats
- Baboon Scatter Feed (15 mins) £15 – Meet the keepers and feed this crazy species
- Bison Scatter Feed (15 mins) £15 – Scatter feed and learn about how we are able to protect them
Gift Voucher for Foodies
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve offers a wide range of Christmas vouchers, catering for all tastes and interests. If you are shopping for a foodie loved one, consider Port Lympne’s delicious festive Afternoon Tea. What better way to indulge than with a lusciously refined afternoon tea in the grand environment of the Port Lympne mansion, bathed in the glow of a crackling log fire?
The lucky recipient of your thoughtful gift will settle down to enjoy this quintessentially British classic in the historic surroundings of one of England’s finest Grade II listed country houses, once a favourite retreat for royalty, aristocracy, prominent politicians, authors and playwrights. If a Sunday Roast is more their style, then the Port Lympne’s dining gift vouchers are valid on any menu at the stunning Garden Room Restaurant and Bar, all with the option to add full access to the sprawling animal reserve to provide the perfect day out.
- Afternoon Tea – £29pp plus park ticket (required)
- Sunday Roast – 2-course £42pp, 3-course from £47pp – includes access to Port Lympne Reserve
StreetHunt Games
Looking for a last-minute experience gift for an adventure lover? Buy them a voucher for StreetHunt Games: think scavenger hunt meets escape room meets murder mystery. It’s an outdoor, self-guided game that takes you through historical London or York locations. StreetHunt Games is currently in the Top 20 fun and games in London on TripAdvisor.
It’s the perfect experience gift for friends or family suitable from age 10+.
They have two Hunts to choose from – The Case of Colombia’s Finest, introduces you to Jim Robusta and his coffee company – Jim’s colleagues have shady pasts and Jim has asked you to sniff out evidence of crime amongst the caffeine. In their second Hunt, Will Breaker, your uncle has died in mysterious circumstances, leaving his estate to you, but only if you can solve a series of brain teasers.
- They each cost £18.15pp and take 1 – 2 hours with individual team sizes of two to five. Larger groups can split into multiple teams to add some friendly competition.
- Slots available 7 days a week from 9am-7pm, and the vouchers are redeemable for two years from purchase.
Warner Bros. Studios Tour London
Ever since the incredible Warner Bros. Studio Tour London opened its doors at Leavesden in 2012, Potterheads have flocked in their thousands to explore breathtaking sets, intricate props and iconic costumes.
Venture through the Forbidden Forest and come face-to-face with Aragog in his lair and stroke Hagrid’s beloved Buckbeak. Bask in the glory of the Great Hall in the company of spellbinding statues and costumes. Avid Quidditch fans get the chance to study the evolution of Harry’s legendary Quidditch kit. With so much to take in from start to finish, it’s sure to be a Potter overload for muggle fans of all ages!
Visit WBStudioTour for more information.
Spa Days and Indulgence
Bannatyne Spa Day
If a healthy dose of R&R is long overdue, find sanctuary at a Bannatyne Health Club. Pick from locations across the UK and enjoy a day dedicated to your well-being. Discover state-of-the-art gym facilities, luxury swimming pools and a range of spa facilities to help you to relax and unwind. Once you’re fully acquainted with the facilities, head over to a treatment room for 40 minutes of blissful treatments.
You’ll choose from three packages which include a range of express massages, replenishing facials and soothing foot treatments. There’s no better way to relieve yourself from the stresses of everyday life, to soothe the mind and lift your spirit.
Visit Red Letter Days for more information.
Afternoon Tea at Patisserie Valerie
A pillar of British culture and enshrined into our daily lives, the world wouldn’t seem complete without a good cuppa in hand. And what better way to enjoy an excellent brew than with a tantalising selection of finger fancies to enjoy over a catch-up with a friend?
Settle into the quaint surroundings of Patisserie Valerie for an afternoon tea treat like no other. Sandwiches and delicate cakes, along with clotted cream and jam smothered over fresh scones, make up this gorgeous spread.
Visit Red Letter Days for more information.
Action and Adventure
Arsenal Emirates Stadium Tour
The ultimate interactive tour is now available as you go behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium for a tour like none other. This fantastic audio tour allows you to guide yourself around the stadium at your own pace, taking in the press conference area, the first team dressing room and of course, a walk out of the tunnel to the imagined roar of the Arsenal crowd. Listen on as Arsenal legends past and present talk you through their own experiences of pulling on the famous red and white jersey and even hear from the gaffer himself in the changing room.
Once you have finished the tour you will have full access to the fascinating Arsenal Museum, where you can travel through the illustrious history of your club.
Visit Buyagift for more information.
Big Game 16
Harlequins Rugby Club’s Big Game, now in its 16th year, is back and better than ever and will be taking place on Saturday, 28th December, at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
As the largest annual club rugby match globally, and the fastest-selling event to date, with an 82,000 sell-out anticipated, it is the perfect Betwixmas activity for all ages. Today, the club has also announced legendary dance music group Rudimental as the headline entertainment act for Big Game 16.
The dynamic Londoners will be a key part of an incredible day of entertainment for the whole family, featuring a blockbuster doubleheader at the Home of English Rugby. Harlequins Women will open the event against Leicester Tigers at 15:00pm, followed by the Men’s teams reigniting their rivalry in the Gallagher Premiership against Leicester Tigers at 18:00pm.
Electrifying Pre-Match Light Show
Kick off the excitement with a mesmerising pre-match light show that will dazzle and set the stage for an unforgettable game experience!
West Fan Village Access
Step into the heart of fan festivities at the West Fan Village! Here, you’ll find:
- Free Fairground Rides
Enjoy the thrill of classic fairground rides—perfect for fans of all ages looking for some high-energy fun before the match! - Interactive Activities
Dive into a range of hands-on activities and games, giving you and your group plenty of ways to celebrate together.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving Experience
Have you always wanted to skydive but want a taster before you take the plunge? Then why not try an exhilarating indoor skydive experience at a choice of iFLY locations. You will each enjoy two spine-tingling flights, the equivalent freefall time of three 12,000ft skydives. Using a wind tunnel that is similar to those used to test F1 racing cars, you will float in the air! This unforgettable experience also includes a full safety briefing and a full kit.
Visit Buyagift for more information.
Up at The O2 Climb
See views of London like never before as you scale the iconic O2 with a friend and stand atop the city landmark! You’ll be provided with all the safety gear you’ll need, including grippy boots, a safety harness and a jacket, and will be attached to the safety rail and allowed to climb your way to the top. Your guide will be around during the experience to answer any questions you might have about the structure or the surrounding area.
Once you reach the top you’ll be given plenty of time to take in the view and snap any photos of the views over Canary Wharf and beyond.
Visit Buyagift for more information.
