That’s right… my seasonal #LondonLists just keep on coming! I’ve got a couple of carryovers from last year but mostly fresh new fun that’s on my list for October to March. What do you like the sound of most?
1. Learn a new skill
Based on my regular activities I’m thinking cocktail-making, coffee-crafting or a cooking class… but maybe I’ll branch out to calligraphy, a new language or fashion design. Any course recommendations for me?
2. Gaze on the glories of a stately home
This wasn’t quite the right fit for London Summer 2016, which practically demanded outdoor activities whenever possible. But I have a feeling it will be just right for a London winter! Apsley House, Strawberry Hill and Sutton House are all calling – where to go?!
3. Appreciating autumn
Too often I greet the cooler temperatures of autumn with, at best, an eye roll – I’m truly a summer baby and happiest when I know I’m getting my full dose of Vitamin D. Time to take a few park walks (well-wrapped up!) and soak in the beautiful colours of autumn to get myself excited about the change of season. Hyde Park has its name all over this one!
4. A supper club experience
This one didn’t get ticked off last winter so it’s definitely making a reappearance this season. I love the idea of venturing to a new venue or chef’s home and getting served up their specialties in an intimate setting. Food and new friends… sounds good to me!
Near Dover
5. Head for the coast
It’s easy to go into London hibernation during the winter, only dashing from the tube to the pub or gallery. But I want to head out to the coast – maybe the coast of Norwich, or the anachronism of a British seaside “resort” in winter, or the natural beauty of Durdle Door. It’s always good to get some of that fresh sea air to blow the cobwebs away!
6. Drink in a former loo
I’m aware this one sounds a touch odd, but it’s one of London’s greatest triumphs how many insalubrious joints and hangouts get a new life. Bars in London’s former WCs are one of the best examples of this , and I’m determined to tick this one off… surely not too tricky!
7. Move that bod
As the nights draw in and the mornings are darker, my motivation for running inevitably dips. Time to try a different form of getting the body moving. I’m thinking maybe rock-climbing, horse-riding or a morning dance-fest – so many options!
8. Gorge on Christmas
Tis the season to be feasting, after all! I want to hit up all of the Christmas markets, experience the Christmas Extravaganza of lights, and take in a choral session or three. Bring on all of the festive feels!
9. Check out a quirky museum
Sure, I love the classic British Museum, the beauties of the V&A and the endless fascinations in the Natural History Museum. But London has so much more to offer! Maybe the engineering histories of the Brunel Museum, the far-too-realistic restoration of the Old Operating Theatre Museum, or the Canal Museum, which I keep running past but not venturing into!
10. Games night
No, I’m not talking chess – more a raucous round of Bogan Bingo, heading to Flight bar for darts, or Draughts pub in Haggerston, which apparently boasts 250 board games. Or does anyone have a favourite pub quiz they can recommend?
So that’s what I’m aiming to get up to this winter – how about you? Any other suggestions for chilly yet awesome London fun?
Linking up for #WanderfulWednesday with Marcella, Lauren, Van and Isabel – check out their travel link-up and their fantastic blogs using the links!
