With the nights drawing in, and Christmas fast approaching, there are plenty of festive things to do around Canary Wharf. More and more people are now calling this vibrant community their home, in part thanks to its thriving arts and culture scene, and events throughout the year - especially at Christmas. Canary Wharf is fast becoming the place to be over the holidays, and you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy, from markets and Christmas lights to much, much more.
Glide Into Christmas
Canary Wharf’s ice rink has returned this winter season, so you can don your skates and admire the backdrop of the district’s glittering skyline. The 1,200 square metre rink is in Canada Square Park, which is just a 12-minute walk from Aspen, and it’s been redesigned this year - there’s a roof covered in 1,000 fairy lights, so you won’t have to worry about being rained off the rink. After you’ve skated to your heart’s content, you can head to the nearby Off Piste alpine-themed bar, which has a menu of festive food and drink, as well as regular quiz nights and live music, making it a great place to meet up with friends without having to take to the ice first. The rink will be open until 25 February, so you have plenty of time to enjoy it.
Visit a Victorian Santa’s Grotto
Take a trip to the Museum of London Docklands this December, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Canary Wharf is a bustling area full of waterside restaurants and shopping spots, but it’s also steeped in centuries of history, which you can explore at this Grade I listed warehouse-turned-museum. Sailortown, the museum’s recreation of Victorian London, has been transformed with Christmas trees, decorations, and - of course - Father Christmas, for this family-friendly event. Little ones will be able to tell Father Christmas their wishlist, pose for photographs with him, and even receive a gift. Tickets have to be booked in advance, and the grotto will be open till 23 December, so don’t miss out.
Sing Christmas Carols
St. Peter’s Barge, London’s only floating church, is moored at West India Quay in the heart of Canary Wharf, and it will be opening its doors for a series of Christmas carol services this December. All are welcome aboard, and as well as singing some of the most famous carols, guests will also be able to enjoy some mulled wine and mince pies. There will also be carol services throughout December to listen and join in on.
Give Back To Your Community
If you’re looking to do your bit for charity over the holidays, you can take part in this year’s East London Christmas Toy Appeal. The annual scheme, which was started by the East London Business Alliance, delivers toys to the thousands of children in East London who are currently living in poverty and makes sure they have a present to open on Christmas morning. Whether you’ve already bought your apartment at Aspen or are still considering it, it’s your chance to get involved with the local community. When you’re out doing your Christmas shopping in Canary Wharf, why not buy some extra toys for children in need? You can take it to the drop off point at Jubilee Place, which is open Monday to Saturday, from now till 16 December, and they’ll make sure all of the toys are delivered on time.
Be Dazzled By A Light Festival
There’s still something to look forward to once Christmas is over, as Winter Lights - the largest free light festival in London - returns to Canary Wharf in January. The family-friendly festival will light up the dark gloomy nights with 20 stunning installations, and will run from 18-28 January, from 5-10pm. The artworks are spread throughout Canary Wharf, with some just a few minutes’ walk from Aspen, giving you a chance to explore what could be your new neighbourhood and discover the area’s green spaces and attractions. The installations have been made by leading artists from across the globe, and include pieces that can be admired by afar as well as interactive ones that you can get up close and personal with. The full line-up of artists and artworks is yet to be announced, but you can keep an eye on the event’s website to find out more as and when it’s revealed. Previous years have seen food and drinks stalls set up along the trail of artworks, with Canary Wharf’s fine dining restaurants and lively bars offering special deals.
Situated in the bustling community of Canary Wharf, Aspen is surrounded by some of the city’s best shops, restaurants and bars. It’s not just Christmas when future residents can look forward to events and activities - all year round, there is something to see and do in Canary Wharf. Get in touch with us today to find out how you can make this vibrant community your new home!
