LittleBird loves…..our guide to the festive period for you and your family!
Christmas is coming, and that means it’s time for some serious family fun overload! The LittleBird team is back with our legendary Christmas Guide—the ultimate treasure map to all things festive for families everywhere!
What’s inside? A little bit of everything! West End magic and local theatre shows that’ll have you singing all the way home, mind-blowing immersive experiences, adrenaline-pumping theme parks, cozy staycations, and a ton of events that’ll fill your calendar faster than you can say “Ho, ho, ho!”
But that’s not all—oh, no! We’re talking brand-new books, podcasts to cosy up with, exhibitions to wander, plus indoor and outdoor adventures for all ages. There are fresh cinema releases, family-friendly crafts, and enough recipes to do with the kids and keep your kitchen smelling like pure holiday joy. In short, we’ve got everything you need for a Christmas packed with memories and laughter!
So grab your favourite holiday drink, get comfy, and let LittleBird.co.uk guide you through the best festive season yet.
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Things to see at the theatre…
Why not treat the family to a trip to the theatre? We have some incredible offers for top West End Musicals, festive shows, award-winning plays, family favourites, independent productions, ballet and dance, interactive shows and so much more!
Get your tickets to Top West End Shows including: The Lion King | Les Misérables | Hamilton | Smartest Giant In Town | Disney’s Hercules | Six |Wizard of Oz | Starlight Express | MJ The Musical | FanGirls | Stranger Things | My Neighbour Totoro | Mrs.Doubtfire | The Play That Goes Wrong | Wicked | Harry Potter and the Cursed Child | Matilda | Back to the Future | Mamma Mia | The Mousetrap | The Choir of Man | The Curious Case of Benjamin Button | Maddie Moates Very Curious Christmas | The Nutcracker | Clueless The Musical | Aladdin | JUST FOR ONE DAY – The Live Aid Musical | Slava’s Snow Show | Only Fools and Horses | Tina and so many more!
To see all Top West End Musicals, Shows, Plays and Seasonal productions and buy tickets, click here
And….its almost panto time. Oh yes it is! Book your perfect panto here
⭐ The Snowman | Peacock Theatre | Sadler’s Wells | 23 Nov – 4 Jan
Make this Christmas unforgettable with The Snowman, returning for its 27th year! Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved book, this magical stage adaptation follows a boy and his snowman on a wondrous adventure. A heart-warming family favourite—an enchanting holiday treat that will have everyone “walking in the air”! Family Ticket offer available, book tickets here.
Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book comes to Trafalgar Theatre for a festive West End run! Charlie loves reading, especially pirate tales, but his sister isn’t convinced. Can he change her mind with a magical book about a pirate, who reads about Goldilocks, who reads about a knight? Join Charlie’s adventure through storybooks, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs. And, with our offer, you can save 25% off tickets! Just click to “buy tickets” on this page and your code will automatically be applied. T’s and C’s apply, offer ends 3rd December 2024. Book here.
⭐ Hansel and Gretel | Shakespeare’s Globe | 29 Nov – 5 Jan
Step into the magical world of Hansel and Gretel in this fresh take on the Brothers Grimm tale, weaving poetry, song, and hope into the story. When their parents abandon them in the woods to give them a chance at a better life, Hansel and Gretel must find their way home. But their journey takes an unexpected turn when a trail of irresistible treats—and a cunning stranger—leads them astray. Suitable for ages 5 and up, tickets from £5, book here
⭐ Circa’s Duck Pond | Southbank Centre | 19 – 30 Dec
Duck Pond is an extraordinary spectacular that blends your favourite romantic ballet with world-class circus in an unmissable event for the whole family. The perfect alternative festive treat – Duck Pond is playing for a strictly limited season over the Christmas holidays! Swanning into the Southbank Centre this Christmas for 14 performances only. Book ahead and save with our exclusive family offer with 4 tickets for £99.50!* – book here
*Available on a minimum of two tickets from £24.90 per ticket. The exclusive offer is already applied at checkout by booking through any of the links on this email. If for any reason this promotional offer is not already applied, please use the code LITTLEBIRD here
⭐ Nutcracker – English National Ballet | London Coliseum |19 Dec to 11 Jan
Join the English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum for a vibrant journey of magic and wonder, featuring over 100 dancers and musicians. On Christmas Eve in Edwardian London, young Clara receives an enchanted Nutcracker doll that whisks her away on a fantastic adventure. After bravely facing the Rat King, Clara is welcomed to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy hosts a dazzling celebration in her honour. Tickets from £21, buy here
⭐ Luca Silvestrini’s The Little Prince | The Place | 18 – 24 Dec
Based on the famous story by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, this enchanting story of love and friendship for children and adults alike is the perfect treat for Christmas. Find out how The Little Prince leaves behind his own tiny asteroid and beloved rose, and journeys through the universe, coming face to face with the baffling world of grown ups! This delightful, multi-award winning production at The Place is brought to life with dance, humour and spoken word. Book here
⭐ Robin Hood & The Christmas Heist | Rose Theatre, Kingston | 30 Nov – 5 Jan
As winter’s first snow blankets Sherwood, Christmas cheer is scarce – the ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham demands every last penny. But deep in the forest, Robin Hood is hatching a daring plan to bring joy back to the people. Will Robin outwit the Sheriff? Will Sherwood’s children have reason to celebrate this Christmas? The Rose’s beloved Christmas tradition continues in 2024, suitable for ages 5+, buy tickets here
⭐ Christmas Comes to Moominvalley | Jacksons Lane | 6 Dec to 5 Jan
This heart-warming show is perfect for all ages. When the Moomins are woken from their winter sleep and told that “Christmas” is coming, they’re puzzled—what exactly is Christmas? Book your tickets here.
⭐ Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas
Join Maddie Moate at the Apollo Theatre. Explore the science of winter, uncover Christmas traditions, and answer fun questions like why Brussels sprouts make you fart! A STEM adventure for the whole family! Book here
⭐ Father Christmas Needs a Wee! | Arts Theatre | 7 – 30 Dec
Father Christmas is making his rounds… and suddenly realizes he really needs a wee! This beloved story is brought to life with humour, fantastic music and sparkle in this musical adventure. Tickets from £24.90, book here.
⭐ Comedy Club 4 Kids – Park Theatre
The must-see comedy show for all the family, Comedy Club 4 Kids returns to Park Theatre. Suitable for ages 6+. £10 tickets for the Christmas Cracker on Sat 14 Dec 15.00 with code CKLITTLEBIRD. T’s and C’s apply. Book here.
⭐ Tom Fletcher’s The Creakers | Southbank Centre | 19 Dec – 5 Jan
One morning, Lucy and the kids of Whiffington wake up to find all the adults have disappeared! Can Lucy and her friends solve the mystery? Based on Tom Fletcher’s bestselling book, Ages 6+, tickets from £20, buy here
⭐ Dick Whittington and his Cat | Greenwich Theatre | 22 Nov – 5 Jan
Join Dick Whittington and his clever Cat on a quest for fame and fortune through London! Can they outsmart the wicked King Rat, defeat his gang of rodents, and win Alice Fitzwarren’s heart? For all ages, book here.
⭐ Horrible Christmas | Alexandra Palace | 12 Dec to 4 Jan
This December, Horrible Histories presents the exciting tale of Christmas at Alexandra Palace Theatre. When Christmas is threatened by a jolly man in red, it’s up to one brave boy to save the day. Journey through Christmas history with characters like Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII, and St. Nicholas as they unite to rescue the festive season. A fun, funny, and heartwarming celebration of Christmas for ages 5+. Book tickets here
⭐ The Fir Tree | artsdepot | 12 – 31 Dec
This reimagined version of Hans Christian Andersen’s holiday tale features live music, puppetry, and foley sound effects and celebrates friendship, timeless stories, and living in the moment. Ages 6+, book tickets here.
⭐ 1927: Please Right Back | Southbank Centre | Sat 21 Dec – Sun 5 Jan
Mr E has disappeared! When he writes to his children to tell them what’s happened, his imagination takes over… and sweeps us all along on a whirlwind adventure. Enter into a magical, mischievous world in this poignant coming-of-age tale, combining handcrafted animation and bold storytelling. Part social realism, part science fiction, with a healthy dose of mischief and a dash of dystopia, come and see this manifesto for the power of the imagination. Book tickets here.
⭐ Odd and the Frost Giants | The Unicorn Theatre | 19 Nov – 31 Dec
Join Odd on a thrilling adventure through Norse myths, where he must save Odin, Loki, and Thor from the Frost Giants’ icy invasion. With humour and enchantment, this is a heart-warming tale of friendship and bravery for the festive season. Book tickets here.
⭐ The Gruffalo’s Child | artsdepot | 3 Dec to 5 Jan
Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous journey at artsdepot in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved picture book. On a wild, windy night, the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and ventures into the deep dark wood. She follows snowy tracks and meets mysterious creatures, but does the Big Bad Mouse really exist? Ages 3+, book tickets here
⭐ Well Done, Mummy Penguin at the Albany Theatre | 1 to 24 Dec
With daring acrobatics, integrated sign language and heart-warming humour, this show is the perfect wintery treat for everyone aged 3 and up. Showing 1 to 24 Dec, buy tickets here
⭐ My Christmas Orchestral Adventure | Royal Albert Hall | 8 December
Calling Santa’s little helpers! Conductor Tim has lost his Christmas spirit just before the world’s biggest Christmas concert. Join his brother Tom, Albert’s Orchestra, the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, and special guests as they help Tim rediscover his holiday cheer in time to meet Father Christmas! Book tickets here.
⭐ Cinderella | What’s On | King’s Head Theatre | 30 Nov – 5 Jan
Get ready for a fabulous North London twist on Cinderella at King’s Head Theatre! This lively panto features hilarious slapstick, romance, puppetry, and sing-along fun. Join Cinderella as she ditches her dreary life and meets a shy Prince in need of confidence, all with help from a Fairy Godmother! Tickets from £10, under 3’s on laps free, book here
⭐ The Singing Mermaid | Little Angel Theatre | 23 Nov – 6 January
Join Little Angel Theatre on a fun, warm-hearted musical adventure this Christmas as this joyful and charming family favourite returns! Ages 3-8, tickets from £10. Buy tickets here
⭐ The Nutcracker | Churchill Theatre Bromley | 7 – 22 Dec
A festive reimagining of The Nutcracker – A Christmas Story! On Christmas Eve, Clara picks a Nutcracker from under the tree, who magically springs to life, leading her on a wondrous adventure. Filled with original songs, colourful characters, and interactive storytelling, this holiday show is perfect for families with children ages 2+, book tickets here
⭐ Huddle | The Unicorn Theatre | 22 Nov – 31 Dec
In the cold winter, Mr. Penguin guards his egg and now has to care for his newborn chick alone. Can they work it out together? This is a heart-warming, visually stunning show that explores the bond between parent and child as they overcome challenges together. Ages 2-5, book tickets here
⭐ Santa & Sven | Theatre 503 | 13-21 Dec
Helping Santa fill every stocking worldwide in one night is a massive job! Santa, with Sven the reindeer handler and a Snow Elf, are scouting ahead to streamline their Christmas Eve journey. Ages 2+, book tickets here.
⭐ Stick Man | Bloomsbury Theatre | UCL – University College London | 4 Dec – 5 Jan
Stick Man is back! The beloved tale to life in a delightful, action-packed show. What starts as a morning jog turns into a wild adventure for Stick Man. Will he ever make it back to the family tree? Perfect for all ages. Book tickets here
⭐ Alice in Wonderland | Brixton House | 21 Nov – 4 Jan
After a blowout with her mum at Brixton Station, eleven-year-old Alice jumps onto a train just as the doors close—only to find herself on a wild ride into Nonsense! With quirky passengers and a Queen in control, can Alice turn this train around? This thrilling Christmas adventure is packed with rap, the vibrant energy of Brixton, and non-stop action! Book tickets here
⭐ Pirates of Penzance – English National Opera – London Coliseum | 2 Dec – 21 Feb
Prepare to set sail with The Pirates of Penzance! The ENO’s smash-hit production returns! With witty dialogue, unforgettable tunes, and a delightfully silly plot, this is a feel-good favourite. Book tickets here
⭐ The Snowy Day | Polka Theatre | 6 Dec – 2 Feb
One winter morning, Peter wakes to find his world blanketed in snow. Join him as he explores his snowy New York neighbourhood in this enchanting new dance adaptation of The Snowy Day, For ages 1–4 and their grown-ups, book tickets here
⭐ Sandy and The Sea Monster | Puppet Barge | 30 Nov – 26 Jan
Puppet Theatre Barge’s new production is a fun-filled musical adventure. In the little village of Rocky Snore, all the fisherfolk are in a mess. Where have all the fish gone? There are no fish to fish! Join Captain Sandy on her adventure to try and find out what’s happened! Ages 4-10, book here.
⭐ Wandsworth Council’s The Little Mermaid | 4-15 Dec and 19-22 Dec
Experience the magic of The Little Mermaid brought to life on stage! Follow the adventurous mermaid on her quest to explore the human world and find true love in this modern reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale. A dazzling mix of theatre, dance, and laughter awaits audiences of all ages! Book here
⭐ The Night Before Christmas | New Wimbledon Theatre | 11-24 Dec
It’s the most exciting night of the year and as Woody and Milly attempt to fall asleep, all the magic and wonder of Christmas Eve reveals itself! As sleigh bells ring out, is that an elf the children can see? And is that really Santa delivering presents? Suitable for 3 – 8 year olds and features festive fun, classic Christmas songs and lots of audience participation! Book tickets here
Immersive Experiences in London…
If you are looking to escape reality and immerse yourself in a parallel one – which one will you choose? What is fiction and what is reality? Here is our pick of the immersive experiences London has to offer and the link to book your tickets:
⭐ Batman Unmasked – An all-new experience
⭐ The Formula 1® Exhibition London
⭐ Avora: Family Immersive Adventure
⭐ Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive VR Expedition to Ancient Egypt
⭐ Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience beyond your imagination!
⭐ Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
⭐ The Gunpowder Plot Experience
⭐ LittleBird – Jeff Wayne’s The War of The Worlds!
⭐ Neon Brush Kids: A Neon Painting Class for the Family
Places to Ice Skate in & around London…
⭐ Ice Rink Canary Wharf, 26 October 2024-23 February 2025
⭐ Skate Brent Cross ice rink, 1 November 2024-5 January 2025
⭐ Glide at Battersea Power Station, 8th November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Skate at Somerset House, 13th November 2024-12th January 2025
⭐ Ice rink at Winter Village, Westfield London, 15th November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Ice rink at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, 21st November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Hampton Court Palace ice rink, 2th2 November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ JW3 Ice Rink, 8th December 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Christmas in Cambridge, 15th November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Reigate on Ice, 30th November 2024-1st January 2025
⭐ Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton – Oct 26th, 2024– Jan 5th, 2025
⭐ Windsor On Ice, 15th November 2024-5th January 2025
⭐ Alexandra Palace, Open all year round
Family Days Out and Family Fun…
This festive season, join London Transport Museum for family fun and a chance to meet Father Christmas! Explore a magical winter scene in the Transportorium Garden, climb aboard Santa’s interactive sleigh, and capture the perfect family photo with help from his elves. From 23 Nov – 5 Jan, enjoy festive stories, a digital family trail, and meet characters from London’s transport history. Kids go free, and adult tickets offer free return visits for a year! Book here.
⭐ Tim Burton Exhibition | The Design Museum | Until 21 April 2025
Explore the fantastical world of Tim Burton! Drawing from his personal archive, the display spans his career, featuring drawings, paintings, photographs, sketches, sculptures, and designs. This exhibition will be the only showing in the UK! Members go free, book tickets here
⭐ The Gingerbread City® | The Gaumont | 222 Kings Road | 30 Nov – 29 Dec
Explore a world where imagination meets innovation—The Gingerbread City at the Museum of Architecture! Featuring future-inspired cityscapes crafted by 50+ architects and designers from gingerbread, candy and frosting, it’s a sweet treat for all ages to enjoy. Book tickets here.
⭐ The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo! | 23 Nov – 5 Jan
Join London Zoo for an eco-friendly holiday celebration filled with fun for all ages! There are Christmas crafts, pop-up Santa, festive animal talks, reindeer rubbish round-up, letters to Santa, holiday treats and photo opportunities and much more! All activities are included with Zoo entry unless noted otherwise, book tickets here
⭐ Christmas at Whipsnade Zoo | Festive Animal Fun and Holiday Surprises! | 23 Nov – 6 Jan
Celebrate Christmas at Whipsnade Zoo with festive fun for all ages! Enjoy seasonal cheer, kid-friendly activities, Christmas-themed animal talks, and holiday surprises. Don’t miss Santa at his grotto! Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones while exploring the zoo. Book here
Step into a food lover’s winter wonderland at the Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre! Enjoy a memorable day with loved ones—eat, shop, and be merry! Visit on Friday, 06 or 13 December for discounted entry. Ticket also includes palace access, to explore Henry VIII and his royal family’s fascinating history too. Book here.
⭐ Tower of London | Historic Royal Palaces | Christmas at the Tower of London | 29 Nov to 5 Jan
Celebrate Christmas at the Tower of London with festive displays showcasing how past kings and queens celebrated the season. Explore King Edward I’s medieval feast, Tudor court entertainment, and take a regal family portrait on a throne. Experience a Victorian Christmas with a frost fair display and enjoy festive music by the Southwark Waits musicians. Included in ticket admission, book here
⭐ Christmas at Hobbledown Heath | Epsom and Hounslow | Santa’s Secret Village | 23 Nov – 24 Dec
This Christmas, Santa’s Secret Village returns to Hobbledown, bigger and better than ever! Enjoy twinkling lights, festive treat trails, and magical visits with Santa. New for 2024: After School Santa’s Grotto and Toddler Storytime with Santa—making this December unforgettable! Book here.
⭐ Storytelling with Santa | Natural History Museum | 1-15 Dec
Visit Father Christmas in his winter wonderland at the Natural History Museum this December! Enjoy a magical experience with a festive story and a photo with Santa. Fun for all ages! Adults are Free, Child tickets £17 and members £13.60, more information here
⭐ London Museum Docklands |Victorian Santa Grotto | 22 Nov – 23 Dec
Step into a festive Sailortown to meet Santa in his grotto! Snap a photo, receive an eco-friendly gift, and explore the museum after. Tickets include a present made with minimal plastic and suited to your child’s age. Book here
⭐ Father Christmas at Marble Hill | English Heritage | weekends 30 Nov to 22 Dec
Kick off the festive season with Father Christmas at Marble Hill or Kenwood! Enjoy a storytelling session by the Christmas tree, meet Santa for photos, and receive a traditional gift. Tickets £9.50 per child, book here and to save 20% on English Heritage membership, see here
⭐ Christmas at Kew |A botanical world filled with seasonal cheer | 13 Nov to 5 Jan
Discover winter magic at Kew Gardens with the return of Christmas at Kew! Explore a 3km light trail featuring over 20 dazzling displays, glittering tunnels, jewel-toned trees, and a glowing fire garden. Enjoy vibrant lakeside reflections, larger-than-life illuminations, and a visit from Father Christmas too. Some date exclusions, book here
⭐ Piggy Pet & Play – Kew Little Pigs Farm
Enjoy an unforgettable 2-hour miniature pig experience at the award-winning Kew Little Pigs Farm in Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire. Meet these adorable, affectionate pigs up close in the outdoor paddocks or their cosy new barn—and you might even see some of their newest piglets! A lovely gift idea! Book here
⭐ The Spirit of Christmas at Eltham Palace | English Heritage | 23 Nov to 22 Dec
Join Father Christmas at Eltham Palace for The Spirit of Christmas, an immersive theatrical adventure for the whole family. Help restore the true meaning of Christmas on a journey through the stunning art-deco mansion, meeting magical characters along the way. Enjoy interactive storytelling, performances, and photo ops, culminating in a heartwarming meeting with Santa. Each child receives a gift too! Book here
⭐ Christmas at Chiswick House & Gardens – Chiswick House & Gardens
Celebrate Christmas at Chiswick House and Gardens with festive fun for the whole family! Enjoy unique experiences, tasty treats, beautiful gifts, and connect with nature this holiday season. There is storytelling with Santa, Christmas Wreath making workshops, Christmas Markets and more! Find out more here
⭐ Hyde Park Winter Wonderland | 21st Nov 2024 – 5th Jan 2025
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is back offering a festive mix of attractions, entertainment, food, drinks, and more. Check out the magical ice kingdom, thrilling rides, ice sculpting workshops, Ice car, Zippos Christmas Circus : Candyland and so much more! Check out the map guide here Grab your tickets now and create magical memories with your loved ones! Find out more here
⭐ That’s not my….Winter trail | Discover Children’s Story Centre | Trail | 230 Dec to 5 Jan
Pop to the Discover Children’s Story Centre, where in conjunction with Usborne, you can pick up a trail sheet and explore their Story Worlds to discover festive, sensory characters from the popular Usborne That’s Not My… series. Are they too fluffy, too shiny, too tufty, or too soft? Drop in – free with your entry ticket. Book here
⭐ Charles Dickens Museum | Animal Tales: Stories from the Raven’s Beak! | 7 + 8 December
Celebrate the storytelling season this Christmas with a visit to Charles Dickens’s home, where animals play a lively role in his works. Explore the Faithful Companions exhibition with a family-friendly introduction, then join Emily from Dragonfly Tales in an interactive, animal-themed storytelling adventure. Ages 5+, book here.
Things to make…
⭐ 5 minute Christmas Crackers to make with the kids from Rock My Family
⭐ The Best White Salt Dough Recipe for Oven and Air Drying Crafts from Rainy Day Mum
⭐ Christmas Reindeer Food Recipe – Feeding Wildlife | RSPCA – RSPCA – rspca.org.uk
Things to cook…
⭐ Christmas Recipes to Cook with Kids – Rainy Day Mum
⭐ Chocolate Twist Christmas Tree recipe | The Family Cookbook
⭐ Chocolate crinkle cookies recipe | Cooking with my kids
Things to watch…
⭐ Paddington in Peru | Release date 8 November!
⭐ Gladiator 2 | Release date 17 November!
⭐ Wicked – In Cinemas 22nd November!
⭐ Moana 2 – in cinemas 29th November!
⭐ The Lord of The Rings The War of the Rohirrim | Release date 13 Dec
⭐ Mufasa The Lion King | Release date 20th December!
⭐ Sonic The Hedgehog 3 | Release date 21st December
And….. The brand-new Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl will premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Christmas Day! Check out the TV Guides to see when it airs…
Books to read…
Kids vs Adults, the Ultimate Quiz Book | Bloomsbury Books
Perfect for family get togethers this Christmas time!
Personalised Children’s Books | Save 39%
These personalized books let kids step into exciting roles, including the adventure of being Santa’s helper! Each “I Want To Be” book is uniquely crafted to make reading a personal experience, choose from 11 amazing children’s stories and save 39% with LittleBird here
Christmas at Hogwarts | JK Rowling and illustrated by Ziyi Gao | Bloomsbury
Perfect for Harry Potter fans!
Advent Calendar Book Collection | Usborne
A luxury advent calendar with a beautifully illustrated storybook behind each window.
A Poem for Every Day of Christmas | Macmillan Children’s books
A beautiful collection of thirty-one poems, compiled by award-winning anthologist Allie Esiri, to take you through the month of December.
The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland | Carys Bexington | Macmillan Children’s Books
‘Twas the night before Christmas with a wonderful twist – soon to be an animated musical on SkyCinema and NOWTV featuring Emilia Clarke, Gerard Butler and Simone Ashley!
Unstoppable Artists | Loll Kirby & Ruth Burrows |Owlet Publishing
Inspires readers to freely express themselves through art offering a unique outlet for self-expression, problem-solving, boosting self-esteem and supporting mental well-being in a tech-driven world.
That’s not my reindeer…by Fiona Watt | Usborne
Delightful, award-winning touchy feely books, also available as book and soft toy sets. Part of the THAT’S NOT MY® Books collection, browse all 83 books here!
I am Rebel | Ross Montgomery | Walker
Shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book of the Year, a touching and adventure-packed tale of a loyal dog who sets out on a daring journey to bring his beloved master, Tom, back from the battlefield.
Magazines to read…
⭐ The Week Junior | Christmas offer – save up to 53% and get a free book worth £20! Great gift idea…
Save up to 64% off the cover price and get a free Big Book of Knowledge worth £20! The Week Junior, a multi-award-winning magazine for 8–14-year-olds, sparks curiosity with engaging stories and vibrant visuals. Simple, unbiased explanations help kids explore the world and develop a love for reading—a gift that lasts a lifetime, buy here
Give the gift of wild discoveries this Christmas! The Eco Kids Christmas Collection includes gift subscriptions, festive crafts & magazine bundles – perfect for curious, Earth-loving children aged 7-11. Get 2 free gifts with a 12 mth plan! Find out more here
⭐ What On Earth! Magazine | Monthly Magazine for children to spark a love of reading and learning
What on Earth! Magazine, the Children’s Magazine of the Year 2024! Packed with animals, space, history, inventions & more, this monthly magazine for ages 7–14 features amazing facts, stunning photos, quizzes, jokes & activities. Created with Encyclopaedia Britannica, it’s the perfect gift to spark a love for reading and learning! Buy here
⭐ Hoopla Magazine | A happy magazine for learning and fun!
Bring joy every month with Hoopla! This 36-page magazine for ages 5–10 supports wellbeing and learning with off-screen fun like art projects, outdoor activities, and science experiments. Plus, enjoy good news, journalling, puzzles, jokes, and more! Find out more here
⭐ Storytime Magazine | Get two issues for just 99p plus FREE postage!
Storytime is the UK’s biggest story magazine packed with fairy tales, new and classic stories, awesome animals, inspirational children, myths, legends, gorgeous illustrations, puzzles, games and much more. Stories to read, love and share! Get two issues for 99p and FREE postage with our offer here
Things to listen to…
⭐ Fun Kids Live | The FREE radio station for children!
Listen to Fun Kids Christmas, the free festive radio station for children! Get ready to jingle all the way with Fun Kids Christmas, the brand new holiday radio station from Fun Kids! Listening to Fun Kids is easy, ask your smart speaker to “play Fun Kids Christmas”, hear it free on the app or listen online at Fun Kids Player – Fun Kids Christmas
⭐ BBC Sounds | Classic Stories | Stories this Christmas for children
A collection of classic stories on BBC Sounds this Christmas with 15 episodes of classics from authors including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Oscar Wilde, Charles Dickens, Elizabeth Gaskell, Anton Chekhov, The Brothers Grimm, Leo Tolstoy, Hans Christian Andersen and more! Perfect for car journeys! Listen here
⭐ Elfcast Stories with Father Christmas
Elfcast Stories with Father Christmas is a super fun, 11-minute daily podcast that kids will love! It’s like a quick holiday adventure in every episode. From The Tale of Wish! to The Golden Bell Ceremony, each story is a little slice of Christmas magic. Listen here
⭐ Greeking out from National Geographic for Kids
In each episode, children team up with diverse, renowned authors to develop their story ideas. The author then transforms those ideas into an original story, which you can hear on the show! Listen here
⭐ Maddie Moates Sound Explorers
This podcast digs into and explores the sounds of nature and science. In every episode, Maddie Moate presents a new piece of music made from the sounds discovered by both her and the audience. Listen here
Free things to do…
⭐ Christmas Tree Installation 2024 | V&A South Kensington | 25 November to 5 Jan
All Lit Up! by artist Anna Lomax is this year’s festive installation at the V&A South Kensington. Referencing Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s role in popularizing Christmas trees, the piece uses dynamic lighting to add magic and sparkle throughout the day. Free to visit! Find out more here
⭐ Quantum Jungle: Festive Edition |Young V&A | 30 Nov to 19 Jan
An interactive installation to light up the dark winter nights, by artist, engineer and designer Robin Baumgarten. Located in the heart of the museum’s Town Square, this playful and mesmerising installation builds on Robin’s experiments reimagining videogame controllers and features over 800 tactile springs in an artwork that lights up when touched. Find out more here.
⭐ Gingerbread Greenwich | 30 Nov to 5 Jan
Can you imagine Greenwich made from Gingerbread? This festive season, explore Gingerbread Greenwich—a sugary cityscape of gingerbread buildings, candy streets, and frosted features! Crafted with care by local schools, this free “edible exhibition” is open during Woolwich Works’ hours. Find out more here
⭐ Wicked Wednesdays at St.Pancras International Station
Head to the Wicked Christmas Tree at St. Pancras International every Wednesday evening, where a pianist will perform tracks from the Wicked film score on the station’s iconic piano. Songs will include The Wizard and I, Dancing Through Life, Popular, and of course, Defying Gravity. The performances will be completely free to attend, no booking necessary. Find out more here.
⭐ The Octopus Club | The Young V&A | Nearly New Store | open until 26 Jan
Young V&A is partnering with The Octopus Club to host The Nearly New Store, a pop-up shop offering high-quality, affordable, and sustainable second-hand baby and kids’ clothing and gear. The Octopus Club aims to help parents, caregivers, and brands save money, reduce waste, and lower carbon emissions. Since 2020, they’ve rehomed over 40,000 items. The Nearly New Store offers everything from babygrows to high chairs, with prices from £5 to £500 and savings of 30–70% off RRP. Perfect for budget-smart, eco-conscious shoppers—open 10-5 until 26 Jan, find out more here
⭐ Penguin Parade | Fleet Street Quarter | On until 5 Jan
This Christmas, Fleet Street Quarter becomes a winter wonderland with a FREE penguin sculpture trail supporting WWF! Discover 12 festive penguins, each uniquely designed by artists, in iconic spots like Chancery Lane and Fleet Street. Enjoy an illustrated map by Olaf Falafel and a free audio tour with fun facts about penguins, sculptures, and WWF. It’s free to visit, though donations to WWF are appreciated. Find out more here.
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All prices, dates, events and venues and everything else (!) correct at time of publishing but may be subject to change!