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London Events, London Adventure, Blog, London Entertainment

How To Experience London Marathon 2024 Guide: Date, Time & Place

How-To-Experience-London-Marathon-2024-Guide

Where on earth did you hide your running shoes? The time has come to bring them out again!

In the heart of the great city, the London Marathon is one of the many annual events people are dying to attend. 

It’s one of the world’s most popular marathons, so naturally, it attracts thousands of runners from around the globe.

If you’re lucky, you just might catch yourself running alongside legends like Usain Bolt! Well, it’s not likely, but one can hope, right?

Are you planning to experience or participate in one of the greatest Marathon races ever organized? We’ve got all the insider tips, from where to watch to budget-friendly accommodations in Central London. So, let’s dive in and make the most of this epic day!

What Is the London Marathon?

The London Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, endurance, and community. Every year, tens of thousands of runners from around the world converge on the streets of London to tackle the 26.2-mile course, cheered on by millions of spectators. It’s a chance to witness incredible athleticism, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to be part of something truly special.

On top of being a revered sporting event, the London Marathon is also a major fundraising opportunity for charities. Many participants choose to run for charity, raising money for causes close to their hearts.

You Can Read Also: Experience The Rich History Of Richmond Palace In London

When is the 2024 London Marathon?

Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 21, 2024, because that’s when the magic unfolds. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon veteran or a first-time spectator, this is your chance to be a part of something truly special. Can’t make it to the sidelines? No problem! Catch all the action live on BBC1 and BBC2, starting bright and early at 8:30 am. And for those lucky enough to be in London, head to Blackheath to soak in the atmosphere firsthand, with the big screen ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.

Where is the London Marathon?

The marathon route winds its way through the heart of London, offering participants and spectators a glimpse of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Starting south of the Thames at Blackheath, runners pass through Greenwich before crossing the river over Tower Bridge. The course then meanders through Central London, culminating in a triumphant finish in front of Buckingham Palace. It’s a scenic journey that showcases the best of what London has to offer.

A little History fact about the Marathon is that it dates back to 1981 when the First race was inaugurated. Over the years, it has become a symbol of London’s spirit and resilience, attracting runners of all abilities to take on the challenge.

How to participate?

Are you looking to participate in the next coming Marathon, either as a local or a visitor? Note that Registration opens several months before the event. Entry is highly competitive, so participants often need to enter through a ballot system due to high demand. 

The ballot entry fee typically ranges from £28 to £39 (GBP) for UK residents and slightly higher for international entrants. Luckily, there are also charity entries available, allowing participants to run for a chosen charity and raise funds.

If you need more information about participation and registration, It’s essential to check the official London Marathon website or contact the event organizers directly for the most up-to-date information on registration fees and entry requirements.

Where to stay in London?

After a day of cheering on the runners, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your feet. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable hotels that offer cozy accommodations without breaking the bank. One standout option is the Mowbray Court Hotel in London.

Located in the best parts of London, the Hotel is best suited to meet every of your needs and tastes. With friendly staff and exquisite cuisine, this Hotel is your best bet. The price is also very affordable so you don’t have to break your bank.

Conclusion:

So get those running shoes ready because London is calling! You do not want to miss this year’s Marathon. It promises to be a fun-filled experience for both participants and spectators. With our guide, you’re ready to dive into the excitement of the London Marathon 2024 and create memories that will last a lifetime.

London Events, London Hotels, London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog, Event Venue

How to Experience the Thrill of the 2024 Boat Race: Oxford vs Cambridge Edition!

How to Experience the Thrill of the 2024 Boat Race-Mowbray Court Hotel South Kensington

Join the ultimate boat racing event this year at the River Thames. The competition between Oxford and Cambridge boat clubs has lasted for decades and this year 2024 won’t be an exception. 

And when it comes to accommodation, consider staying at one of the affordable 3-star hotels near Earls Court London for a convenient and comfortable stay in London.

About Boat Race

The boat race is an age-long competition between two of the oldest universities in British history; the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.  Crews from the boat clubs of these two universities come together every year to battle in an amateur and fulfilled competition. With over 185 years of boat racing against each other, the competition is now a shared culture between these universities.  Who will win this year? No one knows yet but you can always place your bet on your favorite.

You can read also: How to Plan the Perfect Day at Kensington Palace: A Step-by-Step Guide!

When is The Boat Race? What time does the race start?

After years of practicing the boat race culture, the year 2024 is set to be another memorable year with the scheduled boat race coming up. This year, the much-anticipated boat race competition is set to happen on 30th March 2024.  The men’s race is slated for 3:46 pm in the afternoon and the women’s is set to happen earlier at 2:46 pm in the afternoon. 

About Tickets

Enjoy the boat race in the comfort of your home by watching it on television. Also, you can simply watch from the banks of the River Thames for free!  And if you’d like to make your time more memorable, you can buy a hospitality ticket which gives you access to the VIP section. 

What colors are Oxford and Cambridge?

During the boat race, Cambridge racers use the green paddle while Oxford racers use the blue paddle. This allows anyone to distinguish these racers easily. 

Who won last year?

Last year came with a bang as Cambridge went on a full sweep, winning both the men’s and women’s boat races.  The men finished in 18:18 minutes putting a space of 1 ½ lengths between them and the Oxford racers. In the women’s section, the gap was wider as Oxford women clinched the win without a doubt with a gap of  4 ½  lengths. Also,  they finished the  race in 29.39 minutes 

What’s it all about?

Boat racing is a competition between two long-standing boat clubs. This year, the Cambridge University Boat Club and the Oxford University Boat Club will compete against each other in what promises to be the best entertaining event for the year. 

Where to stay in London?

The boat race this year is not one to miss as there are several memories to be made. Fortunately, most visitors can stay at the Mowbray Court Hotel in South Kensington which is budget-friendly and just 36 minutes away from the River Thames.  There is a continental buffet breakfast every morning and each room is fitted with an air conditioner, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. And if there’s anything you need to make your stay better, the 24-hour front desk is always at your service 

Final Thought

Create memories at the Boat Race 2024 as the age-long universities battle it out in this pro-amateur competition. Book a room at the Mowbray Court Hotel and have a comfortable stay throughout the competition. 

London Attraction, Blog, Event Venue

What’s the Best Way to Spend Easter Weekend 2024 in London? Your Ultimate Guide!

Best Way to Spend Easter Weekend 2024 in LondonBest Way to Spend Easter Weekend 2024 in London

Easter is not just a date on the calendar; it is a date for celebration that transforms Britain’s capital city into a treasure trove of experience. Every corner of London hides a magical surprise for anyone seeking fun during this memorable holiday—the city’s landmarks can bear witness to this.

But first, let’s talk convenience. In this digital age, staying connected is a must. So, if you’re on the lookout for hotels with free Wi-Fi in London, worry not! There are plenty of options across the city that offer this amenity, ensuring you can stay connected with friends, share your Easter memories, or simply unwind with your favorite Netflix series after a day of exploring.

Are you planning on being a part of this experience? Sit tight as we uncover the eclectic mix that London has in store for Easter weekend 2024.

What Is Easter?

Easter is a holiday celebrated by Christians worldwide to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament of the Holy Bible. Easter is considered one of the oldest festivals in the church.

You can read also: How to Plan the Perfect Day at Kensington Palace!

It falls on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal equinox, which marks the culmination of the passion of Christ and his crucifixion on Good Friday. This year, 2024, Easter weekend starts on March 29th with Good Friday and ends on April 1st with Easter Monday.

People celebrate Easter with many traditional activities, including church services, festive meals, and breathtaking activities.

Family Attractions And Easter Holiday Activities For Kids In London

Whether you are a resident or visiting London for the Easter holiday, this vibrant city has a tailored experience for you and the kids. Here they are:

Sea Life London

Craving to see what life in the deep blue sea looks like? Then, Sea Life is a place you’d want to spend your Easter weekend with the family and kids. You’d see several fantastic sea creatures, like seahorses, sharks, and jellyfish there. Can’t wait to see them, right?

Cutty Sark

Cutty Sark provides breathtaking moments with its famous masts of iconic ships. Climbing this ship is terrific for families who are brave enough for the adventure. So warm up your feet and arms as you’re about to be gaslighted with fun.

The Thames

The Thames is fun-packed for an Easter weekend in London. Enjoy the exotic views of London’s landmarks by taking a family-friendly boat cruise around the River Thames. Operators provide Easter-themed rides, activities, and entertainment for families.

Museums

London has a lot of family-friendly interactive museums that you can visit with the kids during the Easter holiday. Museums like natural history museums put up special activities tailored for young minds during the Easter holidays.

Easter Shows In London 

Want to experience spectacular Easter weekend family time? Getting a ticket to see a movie or musical performance in London is a great idea. You can try out those at London’s west end—they are jaw-dropping. You can also take the family to see a matinee performance during the holiday for a heartwarming, hilarious show.

London Easter Egg Hunt And Trails

Enjoy the Easter weekend in London by egg hunting in one of London’s finest gardens, where you and the kids can search for hidden chocolates. Gardens like Hamhouse and Gardens, Kew Gardens, and Covent Gardens combine joy and fun to create a perfect family Easter weekend outing. Exploring a nature trail in parks and nature reserves is a must to experience on Easter weekend in London.

Weather In London During Easter

The weather in London during Easter varies yearly—The transition from winter to spring characterizes it. The Easter holiday in London witnesses more extended daylight and temperatures ranging from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius. We’ll advise you to keep a layer, a jacket, and an umbrella because they’ll be beneficial for outdoor activities as London’s weather can be unpredictable.

British Easter Traditions

The Easter holiday in London witnesses many traditional activities that keep the city vibrant throughout the Easter weekend. Here is a list of British Easter traditions.

  1. Easter eggs and egg rolling
  2. Hot cross buns
  3. Easter bonnet parade
  4. Easter church service
  5. Morris dancing
  6. Simnel cake

The Best Place To Stay In London

After a day of Easter adventures, you’ll need a cozy place to rest your head. Look no further than Mowbray Court Hotel London for comfortable and affordable accommodation in the city’s heart. Conveniently located near Earls’s Court, this charming hotel offers modern amenities, friendly service, and a warm welcome-the perfect home away from home during your Easter weekend getaway. They also offer discounts—great, right?

Conclusion: 

London provides many family-friendly activities that ensure families enjoy every Easter weekend. So, if you’ve chosen this city for Easter weekend 2024, you made the right call.

So, there you have it-your ultimate guide to an eggstraordinary Easter weekend in London, complete with budget-friendly hotels that won’t leave you disconnected. Get ready to embrace the simplicity of fun, food, and fantastic moments. Easter 2024 is calling, and London is ready to welcome you with open arms and bunny ears!

London Attraction, Blog, London Entertainment

5 Spectacular Ways to Celebrate the New Year’s Eve in London

5 Things to Do For New Year's Eve in London- Mowbray Court Hotel London

London comes alive with a shiny spirit and a lovely display of lights to mention goodbye to the old and welcome the new because the calendar turns its final pages. A wide range of activities and events are to be had on New Year’s Eve in the heart of the British city. Here are some interesting things to do in London.

As you plan your New Year’s eve in London, don’t forget that the city offers a range of affordable accommodations to suit every budget. From cheap hotels in London to budget-friendly accommodations, you can find a variety of options for a comfortable stay. 

5 Amazing Ways to Celebrate the New Year’s Eve in London

1.  Thames River Fireworks

The well-known Thames River Fireworks are the precise manner to ignite your new year’s fire. Head to the banks of the River Thames and steady a top view to look the sky changing right into a hue of rainbow above London.

You can read also: What to do on Boxing Day in London?

2. West End Show

Finish your year by means of making its closing moments fancier by enjoying world-magnificence theater performances at London’s famous theater districts, and because the curtain comes down, stroll outside and join the cheerful loads in the New Year celebrations.

3. Dinner at The Shard

A steeply-priced dinner at The Shard will enhance your New Year’s Evening. As the clock ticks nighttime, raise a pitcher to welcome the brand new 12 months with the city’s illuminated monuments supplying a beautiful backdrop.

4. Thames River Cruise

Take a Thames River Cruise to welcome the New Year and enjoy London’s iconic web sites lit up towards the night sky from a different attitude. Enjoy scrumptious supper, live enjoyment, and, of direction, a super vicinity to look the fireworks.

5. Join the countdown on the Big Ben

Ready for a necessary British revel in?
As the world braces itself to mention hi there to the new year, revelers acquire in the parliament rectangular to bid farewell to the vintage year. The chimes of the Big Ben resonating thru the air captures the authentic essence of London’s new year, making it the start of the evening.

Highlights

London luggage plenty of New Year’s Eve celebrations, which is a sign of the metropolis’s vibrancy. People from all walks of life come together to partake in the excitement of a brand new starting because the clock techniques midnight.

Weather in London during New Year’s Eve

The climate around New Year’s Eve in London might be quite cold. The temperature drops down, starting from 2ºC – 8ºC. It is suggested to wear warm garb,  pack a water resistant jacket, and bring an umbrella.

Tips to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in London

  • Plan your schedule and buy tickets earlier for popular activities, as they tend to sell out fast.
  • Undoubtedly, the public transportation machine of London is the best method of having around the town for the duration of nerve-racking festivities.
  • December in London way bloodless, so dress to preserve yourself as warm as feasible.
  • To keep away from any last-minute shocks, preserve a keen eye on occasion schedules, avenue closures, and public transportation updates.

Affordable Accommodation at the Mowbray Court Hotel in London

It is surprisingly suggested to don’t forget Mowbray Court Hotel in London for a comfortable and affordable place stay. This hotel is located in the famous Kensington area and offers cheap accommodations with easy access to the city’s transportation system. Because of its convenient location, it’s the perfect starting point for seeing the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations without going over budget.

Final Thoughts

No depend how you pick out to have a good time this occasion, a family-pleasant journey, or an exquisite fireworks display, London’s New Year’s Eve promises to be an revel in on the way to never be forgotten.

London Events, London Adventure, London Attraction, Event Venue, London Entertainment

Halloween 2024 in London: A Spooky Spectacle & More

How to Visit Buckingham Palace in 2023 Tickets, Hours, Tours and More-Mowbray court hotel earls court

Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure this Halloween in London! 

London, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a unique and enchanting backdrop for Halloween celebrations. As Halloween 2024 approaches, let’s delve into how Londoners decorate their spaces, explore the history and origins of this eerie holiday in the city, discover family-friendly activities, brave haunted attractions, and prepare for the most unforgettable Halloween parties, all while understanding why this celebration holds a special place in the hearts of Londoners.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in London during Halloween, be sure to check out Mowbray Court Hotel London. This centrally located hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a variety of amenities. 

Decorating Your London Space

The magic of Halloween starts at home, and in London, it’s no different. The city’s diverse population brings a global array of decorating traditions. From pumpkins carved with intricate designs to cobwebs draping over charming Victorian facades, Londoners take Halloween decorating to a whole new level. No corner of the city is left untouched, making every neighborhood a spooky spectacle.

History and Origins in London

London’s Halloween celebrations have roots that stretch back centuries, drawing from Celtic traditions and the city’s own historical tapestry. Discover how this ancient festival has woven itself into the fabric of London’s culture, influencing everything from costumes to ghost stories. London’s rich history adds an extra layer of mystery to the holiday, making it a captivating time to explore the city’s haunted past.

Family-Friendly Activities in London

While London may have its fair share of spooky legends, Halloween isn’t just for thrill-seekers. The city offers an array of family-friendly activities, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festive spirit. From visiting the pumpkin patches in Richmond Park to exploring the Tower of London with tales of its resident ghosts, London’s diverse attractions offer something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Read also: Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland: Something for Everyone

Haunted Attractions in London

For those with an appetite for spine-tingling thrills, London boasts a variety of haunted attractions. Venture into the city’s haunted houses, take a ghost tour through its historic streets, explore the eerie depths of its underground tunnels, and brace yourself for a chilling adventure. These hair-raising experiences promise heart-pounding encounters, ghostly surprises, and memories that will haunt you long after the night is over.

Halloween Parties in London

Londoners know how to celebrate, and Halloween is no exception. From the grandeur of the Royal Opera House masquerade ball to quirky costume contests in Shoreditch, the city’s Halloween parties are a sight to behold. London’s diverse population ensures that you’ll encounter an eclectic mix of costumes and traditions, adding to the excitement of the celebration.

Halloween 2024 promises to be a season of spine-tingling enchantment in the heart of London, where the city’s rich history and cultural diversity infuse the holiday with a unique charm. So, whether you’re decorating your London space, unraveling the history of Halloween in the city, enjoying family-friendly activities, braving haunted attractions, or dancing the night away at Halloween parties, you’re sure to find that London’s Halloween celebration is a spellbinding experience like no other.

When it’s time to rest your weary bones, check out accommodation in Earls Court London. It’s the perfect place to unwind and catch your breath after a night of Halloween excitement. Enjoy your Halloween in London as there is no place like London to enjoy and celebrate occasions as such.

Happy Halloween!

London Events, London Adventure, Blog

London Fashion Week: What’s new, What’s Fresh

London Fashion Week-Mowbray Court Hotel London

As London Fashion Week (LFW) looms ever closer, new formats, campaigns, and events come along with it; the first being the British Fashion Council’s (BFC) announcement that this year’s event will be the first of the four global fashion weeks to open its doors to the public.

If you’re traveling to London for the occasion and need a place to stay, a budget-friendly hotel near Kensington might be a great option to keep your costs low while staying close to all the action.

When is London Fashion Week?

London Fashion Week Kicking off on the 12th of September 2024, LFW will offer dedicated experiences for both a trade and public audience through one dynamic schedule, further blurring the lines of what was traditionally known as a global trade platform.

Known for its creativity and innovation, London Fashion Week attracts an audience of press, buyers, and industry professionals from over 50 countries who come to London to explore and discover the best creative talent; from emerging designers to heritage labels and internationally recognized fashion houses.

Read Also: How to Plan the Perfect Day at Kensington Palace: A Step-by-Step Guide!

In response to the ever-changing fashion landscape and the growing public interest in London Fashion Week, the BFC is launching a new Fashion Week format to increase engagement and reach new audiences for designer businesses.

The London Fashion Week schedule will now facilitate two audiences.

TRADE AUDIENCE

The trade audience will attend on-schedule catwalk shows and presentations routinely across the 5 days of London Fashion Week from 12th – 17th September 2024.

THE PUBLIC AUDIENCE

The public audience will be able to purchase a ticket to an immersive LFW experience that will include a selection of designers that will showcase six ticketed catwalk shows which will take place at the official London Fashion Week Hub, on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2024.

People can also visit and witness creative installations, industry-led talk panels from experts offering unparalleled insights into the fashion industry, the DiscoveryLAB, an experiential space where fashion meets art, technology, and music, and a brand new Designer Exhibition, where the creative work of progressive designers explores the most compelling stories around sustainability, community, and ethics.

As part of the new London Fashion Week proposition, the Designer Exhibition will relaunch and will fully embrace #PositiveFashion, the BFC’s initiative designed to celebrate industry best practices and encourage future business decisions to create positive change.

The Designer Exhibition will be open to both trade and public audiences and will be the place where guests discover new creative brands and progressive designers, explore compelling stories and learn about how the fashion industry can be used as a force for change.

#PositiveFashion is led by three pillars: Sustainability, Equality & Diversity, Craftsmanship & Community and London Fashion Week is inviting designers to tell their story, showcase how products are made, and bring their brands and stories to life for a trade and public audience alike.

The celebration of London Fashion Week does not live solely within the hub.

It will extend to a city-wide celebration of activations and events that the BFC will curate in partnership with key retailers, cultural institutions, brands, and partners to engage communities throughout the capital to get involved and capitalize on the success of this global event to reach new audiences.

The aim is to inspire young people and make #LFW a cultural city-wide celebration that will introduce fashion to a wider pool of people who may not have previously engaged with it or understand the incredible careers and opportunities that the industry holds.

New this season, the British Fashion Council will host the London Fashion Week schedule within the LetsBab app, allowing attendees to receive up-to-the-minute schedule updates and show start times through notifications on the go.

The British Fashion Council has also announced that both House of Holland and Self-Portrait will stage public shows during London Fashion Week. The designers will showcase their autumn/winter 2024 collections during three different time slots on Sunday 15 September.

This new format makes a big change for LFW, helping it to become more accessible to the wider public. The designers taking part in the public-facing shows will change every season.

Conclusion:

London Fashion Week offers a thrilling look at the future of fashion. Whether you’re attending a show or just soaking up street style, this event brings a fresh wave of creativity to the city. And if you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable hotel near all the action, the Mowbray Court Hotel in London is a perfect choice to consider. It’s close to public transport, giving you easy access to London Fashion Week venues without breaking the bank.

London Events, London Adventure, Blog, Event Venue, London Entertainment

Notting Hill Carnival returns to the streets of London!

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The vibrant streets of Notting Hill are once again ready to come alive with the colors, sounds, and energy of one of London’s most anticipated events. After months of planning, the famous Notting Hill Carnival is set to make its grand return, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate Caribbean culture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned carnival-goer, this event promises a lively mix of parades, music, and delicious street food. And for those planning to stay nearby, there are plenty of budget-friendly hotels in Kensington, just a short distance away, offering comfort without breaking the bank.

When is Notting Hill Carnival in London?

Slide your dancing shoes on and get ready to move with this year’s Notting Hill Carnival set to kick off on Sunday, August 25th to Monday, August 26th 

You can read also: How to Experience Houses Of Parliament Tours? Something For Everyone

The carnival, which is considered the largest street festival in Europe, aims to celebrate diversity within the city of London, as the city flaunts its population’s link to Caribbean heritage. Notting Hill attracts almost one million people on a year by year basis, luring them in with the aromas of Caribbean street food, music, and an infinity of activities lined up for all ages to enjoy.

Music includes traditional reggae, meringue, calypso, rumba, and zouk music, coupled with floats, carnival activities as well as eateries and pop-up flea markets.

This annual celebration is held in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Close to one million people attend this extravaganza of Caribbean culture and in 2006, the United Kingdom voted to add the Notting Hill Carnival to the famous list of icons of England.

For the first whole day, carnival goers will enjoy a Panorama as well as a steel band music competition complete with street food and dancing.

the Caribbean was the contention of many European countries who each wanted ownership of a part of this gorgeous region. The English acquired St. Kiss, Barbados, Antigua, and other islands in the 17th century. It’s common for many people of the Caribbean islands to reside in England.

Sunday, August 25th will start early, at 6:00 am, with a traditional carnival opening performed in the Caribbean Islands called J’Ouvert. This event’s main attraction is a parade comprised of revelers donned with mugs and brightly colored paints. A Children’s Parade will stroll through the streets during the day and at night as children dance and perform in ornate costumes, swirling the brilliant-colored clothing.

Sunday is the best day for families with young children to mingle with smaller crowds of people and plenty of kid-inspired floats in the parade. All day and into the night Sunday you can catch live music on stages and sample incredible foods from vendors while listening to all kinds of Caribbean-inspired music.

The Grand Finale will be on Monday, August 26th with a mélange of dancing, street performances, steel drum music groups, and the Notting Hill Grand Finale Parade.

To fully enjoy this carnival, we recommend that you wear comfortable choose to easily walk around the festive streets during the celebrations. 

Notting Hill Carnival is free! You don’t have to buy tickets or pay to get in. Enjoy all this world-renowned and famous street carnival has to offer!

Where to stay in London?

If you’re planning to attend the Notting Hill Carnival, staying nearby can make your experience more convenient. Consider staying at the Mowbray Court Hotel in Kensington. It’s a comfortable option located not too far from the carnival area. The hotel provides easy access to public transport, making it simple to reach the festivities. after a day filled with music and dance, you can relax in a cozy setting, ready for more adventures in London.

Don’t miss the excitement of the Notting Hill Carnival-it’s a unique event that brings the streets of London to life!

 

London Events, London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog

A Complete Guide to Celebrate Christmas in London

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Christmas in London

Spending Christmas in London?  Then you can look forward to a lot of festive fun and entertainment. 

All the main shopping areas such as Regent Street, Oxford Street, Kensington, The Strand, and Covent Garden are always beautifully decorated with festive lights.  A massive Christmas tree adorned with long strings of twinkling lights is placed in Trafalgar Square. This tree is a gift from Norway. It is sent every year in recognition of the help and support given to Norway during the Second World War.  Alternatively, you can go for accommodation near Earls Court London and have a great time exploring more.

Head for South Bank, Hyde Park, Leicester Square, Portobello Road or Greenwich for some really wonderful Christmas markets.  Each market contains numerous chalets selling beautiful decorations, gifts, food and drinks.  Entertainment is often provided too in the form of bands, music, and street performers.  At Hyde Park for example there is also a fairground and a Giant Observation Wheel revolving 200 feet into the air providing stunning views across London. 

Ice skating is another fun activity over the Christmas period.  Numerous outdoor rinks are set up throughout London.  Some of the most spectacular are sited outside the Natural History Museum, in the courtyard of Somerset House, and in the moat of the Tower of London.  Hyde Park’s Christmas market includes access to the largest outdoor ice rink in the UK which is situated around the Victorian bandstand. 

Read also: Discovering the Urban Gem: Paddington Square London

Public sessions are held at all the rinks often late into the night, and skates can be hired. If you are near to hotels in London Earls Court, you should visit the Victorian bandstand  Some of the ice rinks also incorporate special sessions by professional skaters where you can watch performances.  At Hyde Park, for example, there are regular shows of Cinderella on Ice performed by championship skaters.

More entertainment can be enjoyed in the West End theatres where special festive productions of favorite ballets like The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty are staged. The Nutcracker is very much a feature of a British Christmas, with its tale of a Christmas party, a fight between the Nutcracker and the evil Mouse King followed by a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. 

Also essential to any British Christmas are performances of A Christmas Carol, Dickens ever-popular story showing how Scrooge learned the real meaning of Christmas from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.

Christmas in England would not be Christmas without the pantomime.  These are comic versions of traditional fairy stories. This year Dick Whittington is being staged at the London Palladium.

Dick Whittington is very much a London story about a boy and his cat who come to London to make their fortune, initially deterred and start to go home before being told by the bells to ‘turn again’, and after various adventures marry the girl he loves and become the Lord Mayor of London.

Expect calls from the audience of ‘he’s behind you’ whenever the bad guy comes on stage, and a pantomime dame wearing the most extravagant, over-the-top, dresses. Oh – and the dame is usually a man dressed as a woman. In addition, choosing the Mowbray Court Hotel in Kensington London will multiply your enjoyment.

As the festive season comes to an end, head to Trafalgar Square for New Year Celebrations which include fireworks displays along the Thames.

London Events, London Attraction, Blog

Changing the Guard – Ceremonial Event

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changing the guard

Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most popular of all ceremonies to watch in London.  It doesn’t cost anything and is extremely colorful and lively.  This is a ceremony that has taken place for many decades, marking the end of a period of duty for one group, and the start of duty for another.

The ceremony always attracts large crowds, so it is best to be there well ahead of time in order to find a good viewing position. There are no tickets, it is a matter of first come, first served.  It starts at eleven o’clock promptly, but it is best to get there at least half an hour beforehand. 

The event takes place in the big courtyard in front of Buckingham Palace which is not far from Mowbray Court Hotel in London.  Spectators are not allowed into the courtyard, you have to watch from the pavement in front of the Palace just beyond the gates.  The ceremony takes place every day between April and July, then on alternate days for the rest of the year.

Dressed in scarlet tunics and tall bearskin helmets, the guards are always drawn from the ranks of one of the five regiments of Foot Guards.  They can be seen marching up towards the Palace from their barracks, before conducting a detailed drill within the courtyard.  Officers bark out commands and the accompanying military band plays a variety of music. They even play ‘Happy Birthday to You’ when it is the Queen’s birthday.  The ceremony takes around 45 minutes.  

Read Also: How to Experience Hampton Court Palace Festival 2024? All you need to know

Take a look at the flag flying above Buckingham Palace. This will tell you whether the Queen is in residence or not.  If she is there, then the Royal Standard is flown.  If she is away, then the Union Flag (sometimes described as the Union Jack) is flown.

Another colorful changeover ceremony is held in the Horse Guards Parade. This is located in Whitehall, on the far side of St James Park.  People prefer to stay at cheap hotels near Earls Court to attend this ceremony.

The full ceremony takes place at 11.00 every weekday and at 10 am on Sundays, with individual mounted sentries changing every hour.  This is another very dramatic ceremony.  The Life Guards are mounted cavalry and when on guard duty, sit on horseback with their swords drawn.  On their heads are heavy-plumed helmets.  They remain unmoving for their hour of duty, and even the horses hardly move a muscle.