Well, it’s officially November! And that can only mean one thing – the festive season is upon us. The sparkle is back in the air, and we’re ready for mulled wine, twinkling lights, and cosy evenings by the fire. From mid-November through December, our corner of Surrey transforms into a Christmas postcard come to life. Whether you’re visiting Craven House or lucky enough to call this area home, here’s everything magical happening nearby this festive season.
Christmas at Hampton Court Palace
The Palace is the star of the show this time of year, with its grand courtyard turned into a glistening ice rink from 21 November. Skate beneath the palace’s towers, then warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine at the rinkside café. Inside the gates, The Festive Fayre will fill the grounds with artisan gifts, gourmet treats, and live music.
Christmas markets and local lights
Kingston’s Christmas Market is back, bringing a slice of European charm to this ancient market town.. From handmade gifts to bratwurst and glühwein, it’s the perfect place for a winter wander. Head further up the river and into London for the Southbank Winter Market, where fairy lights twinkle over wooden chalets serving everything from fondue to festive cocktails. If you’ve got little ones in tow you might fancy an evening out at one of the many festive light trials happening across Surrey this season. We recommend RHS Glow at Wisely or Christmas at Kew in Richmond.
Festive feasts and afternoon teas
It wouldn’t be Christmas without an indulgent treat or two and who can say no to afternoon tea? Local favourites are serving up special festive menus, from classic Christmas afternoon teas to family-friendly feasts. The Mitre in Hampton Court will host its charming Wreath Making and Afternoon Tea event on 27 November, and their Christmas Market is also one to note.
Looking for something for the kids? Head to Fenwick in Kingston for Afternoon Tea with Santa — running every Saturday and Sunday from 29th November. Be sure to book! Also known far and wide for their Christmas displays is Chessington Garden Centre and their Kid’s Christmas Afternoon Tea is a sweet treat not to be missed.
If afternoon tea is not your thing then perhaps we could tempt you with a festive wine tasting? Albury Vineyard is hosting Christmas Wine Tastings throughout the season – easily booked online.
Theatre, comedy and Christmas cheer
The stage is set for a season of laughter and magic. The Rose Theatre in Kingston has a packed programme, from Comedy Crackers to Cinderella for ages five and up. For something immersive, The Great Christmas Feast in London offers an experience of Dickensian decadence and storytelling at its best. And if you have younger theatre-goers, The Polka Theatre in Wimbledon is staging The Snowflake – a heartwarming festive show for children.
And if panto is up your street then take a look at this run down of the shows happening across Surrey, from Beauty and Beast in Guildford to Peter Pan in Dorking and more.
Workshops and local happenings
If you love the idea of handmade gifts and festive crafts, The Art Buyer on Bridge Road has a wonderful line-up of creative workshops, from calligraphy to table decoration sessions. Explore their calendar here.
Meanwhile, The Mitre has plenty more up its sleeve, including Dog Portrait Pop-Ups on 15 November and the Anglers Pub Choir returning to Teddington for singalong evenings filled with good cheer.
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Make it a December to remember
With so much happening right on our doorstep, there’s no better time to wrap up warm and step into the season. Whether you’re skating beneath the stars, sipping tea by the fire, or picking out gifts at a local market, it’s all part of the magic that makes this area shine at Christmas.
Staying at Craven House
At Craven House, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy everything the London suburbs have to offer. Our luxury apartments – overlooking Bushy Park – offer a peaceful retreat just moments from Hampton Court Palace and the festive bustle of Kingston. Whether you’re visiting loved ones, Christmas shopping, or soaking up the holiday spirit, Craven House is your home from home. As always, we’re very happy to help in any way we can, whether that’s answering questions about events or the accommodation or making bookings or reservations for you, please do just get in touch. We look forward to welcoming you soon! Until then, take care.
