December is synonymous with the festive period. And there is certainly plenty of things to do. But if you’re like me — you’ll know that December is also synonymous with crowds, queues and watered down mulled wine. With that in mind, I’ve spent the past few months making little notes of places that had that scarce feeling of space and calm. Something that I think is essential — if you really want to get into the spirit.
Leo
120+ ceramic artists and their creations under one roof
Turning Earth | Highgate | 13—14 December
Returning to Highgate is Turning Earth’s ceramics market which features over 120 makers across two days. Expect a mix of functional and sculptural pieces, wheel-throwing demos and some fresh sourdough pizza and coffee outside. I visited last year and bought some little plates for nibbles and sandwiches. My favourite ceramic purchase to this day.
The tourist-trap alternative to ice skating
Beaverbrook Hotel | Leatherhead | All month
Beaverbrook hotel, a short drive away past the M25, is bringing back its open-air ice rink to dining guests and members.
Festive and authentic French baking
Comptoir Bakery School & Workshop | Bermondsey | Select dates
Underneath Bermondsey’s railway arches lies a baking school with an immersive Christmas programme — including festive buns, biscuits and yule log. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned, this is a good spot to train on authentic French baking techniques.
The wreath workshop that sells out for a reason
McQueens Flower School | South Bank | Select dates
Premium florist, McQueens, has been operating for almost 35 years. For the festive period, they’re inviting folk to their flower school’s annual wreath-making workshop. Every participant leaves with a bespoke wreath to hang and the knowledge of moss bases, fragrant winter foliage and season adornment thanks to the guidance of their skilled tutors.
Broadway’s biggest play lands in London
Oh, Mary! | Trafalgar Theatre | From 3 December
Oh, Mary! is coming to London after sweeping multiple Tonys, including Best Actor and Best Direction. The plot reframes Mary Todd Lincoln as a chaotic, booze-fuelled cabaret hopeful in the days before the assassination, spiralling through acting lessons, delusion and a crumbling marriage.
“A little party never killed nobody”
Home House| Marylebone | 31 December
Home House is hosting members on New Year’s Eve with a return to the golden age of jazz clubs — think New York, Paris and a touch of New Orleans swagger. The headline event is The Speakeasy: a 32-seat, black-tie cabaret dinner backed by Moët Hennessy, with five courses, live jazz and free-flowing champagne.