By Sophie Cross
There’s little doubt that this is going to be the weirdest Christmas yet. But we’ve found the best ways that you can still shop for perfect presents, enjoy the entertainment and soak up the festive cheer with a mulled wine in hand.
Take-out hot toddies mulled wine
Lots of London’s pubs are offering take-out and delivery services so you can get your favourite tipples to your door. They also make great gifts and you’ll be helping out your local in what is a tough time for the hospitality industry. Some pubs (like The Sun Tavern) are selling take-out pints and more importantly, mulled wine and hot toddies to warm your cockles on your winter evenings out. Or if hot chocolate is more your thing, check out our best ones here.
Get Crafty
Why not get crafty this Christmas. You can find a hive of online Christmas activity from the Victoria and Albert Museum here, including how to make your very own V&A inspired Christmas crackers and wrapping paper. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make your own Christmas wreath here.
Walk along the South Bank
The South Bank is lovely at any time of year but wrapping up for a winter stroll along it always feels super special. The trees are filled with twinkling lights, the bridges are lit up from underneath and the London Eye looks iconic as always. If you’re lucky you might be serenaded down the river by the mellifluous tones of a musician.
Christmas baking
Impress your pals with your divine biscuit baking skills by taking up the Biscuiteers #IceolationChallenge. From biscuity flowers to gingerbread sheds, grab your apron and wooden spoon and you’ll have Instagram-worthy cookies in no time.
That’s entertainment… coronavirus-style
Some of our favourite venues are open… unfortunately, we can’t go in! But they are streaming some of their greatest performances live into your living room. Check out…
Shakespeare’s Globe Player
Opera and ballet from The Royal Opera House
Virtually Santa
Children can still see Father Christmas virtually via Google’s Santa Tracker. You can also watch the reindeer via the ReindeerCam live stream or Elf Yourself!