There’s plenty to do, both for children and as a family. We live in an area of outstanding beauty, surrounded by wonderful parks, rivers and gardens. So, how about planning to get some fresh air by having a walk along the Thames to see the beautiful winter colours or feed some birds at Twickenham riverside. Or perhaps a walk through Bushy Park or a visit to Kew Gardens.
Here are some suggestions:
Painshill Park
Visit the beautiful landscaped garden and lake of Painshill Park, and look out for animals, Christmas trees and giant gingerbread men. Conveniently located just off the A3. Carers go free. Find out more at https://www.painshill.co.uk/event/snowfari/
On-line Pantomine
Don’t miss out on the festive pantomime experience. You can still boo, hiss and cheer from your own sitting room. Panto Online is streaming Jack and Beanstalk, starring Peter Duncan and filmed in his own ‘giant’ back garden. Tickets available at https://pantoonline.co.uk
Stick Man at the Rose Theatre in Kingston
Follow the adventures of Stick Man as he tries to get back to the family tree in time for Christmas. Stick Man is running at the Rose theatre Kingston until 3rd January. Book at
https://www.rosetheatre.org/whats-on/stick-man/book-tickets
Ice skating
Get some outside exercise in historic surroundings at the Hampton Court ice rink. Tickets now available at https://www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/hampton-court-palace-ice-rink/#gs.m4a5u7
Kew Gardens
Take a wander down Holly Walk near the Temperate House and enjoy the winter greenery at Kew. Remember to book in advance (carers go free) at https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/visit-kew-gardens
BMX track
Bikes remain a popular choice of activity on the Christmas list. For your adventurous older children, try the the Ham Lands BMX track, just over Teddington Lock bridge.
https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/parks_and_open_spaces/find_a_park/ham_lands
London Wetlands Centre
Get close to nature at the London Wetlands Centre in Barnes and watch out for the otters, ducks and geese as you explore the open spaces. There’s also contemporary art to enjoy as part of your visit. Book at:
https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london/bookings/
Horse-drawn carriage ride
For a very special occasion, you can take a magical horse-drawn carriage ride through Richmond Park. The 60-minute ride begins at Holly Lodge and will raise funds for conservation initiatives for the shire horses in the Royal Parks. Find out more at:
https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park/richmond-park-attractions/horse-carriage-rides
National Archives
Learn more about Christmas from the National Archives
Older children might enjoy finding out about a Victorian Christmas by exploring the museum’s world class collection. See their Youtube video on this topic at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl6un7k2CFI and look out for their free online talks next year.
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