How to Avoid the Festivities
Whilst Christmas is great for many, some prefer to avoid the packed festive locations and the busy Christmas shoppers.
Thankfully in London, whether you love or hate Christmas you’ll never be short of things to do.
We’ve found fantastic boozy brunches across east London alongside classic east London happenings so you can enjoy December – minus the festive happenings.
Instead of humming carols and feasting on another roast dinner, why not head to Bounce at either location to enjoy a spot of ping pong and pizza.
Whilst you may hear the occasional Christmas anthem, you won’t be surrounded by Christmas.
Find out more: http://www.bouncepingpong.com/
Drag yourself out of bed one weekend to enjoy a visit to the famous Columbia Road Flower Market – it might be a bit chilly but it’s the perfect way to spend a weekend.
Why not head to a local café afterwards to warm up?
Why not head to The Hackney Coffee Company for delicious, fresh coffee. Find them here:
499 Hackney Rd, London E2 9ED
Pick yourself up some artisan food or some arty knick-knacks, vintage pieces and various other locally sourced items every weekend.
Broadway Market, E8 4QJ
Get out of the festive spirit with a boozy brunch in the City.
Head to Moorgate and for £35 per person you can enjoy unlimited bloody Mary’s, prosecco and mimosas alongside 3 dishes! This American style diner is sure to get you away from the hustle and bustle of the festivities.
Book your table here: http://badegg.london/
If you’re looking for some American-style brunch items in addition to brunch classics, then you’re in the right place.
Each dish is priced individually but for £15 you can enjoy bottomless Bloody Mary’s or £16 for bottomless seasonal Bellini’s.
Enjoy a selection of three brunch dishes with bottomless mimosas for £37pp at this Old Street abode.
In their own words, it’s a “brunch with a view” and at £37pp it’s undoubtedly value for money this December.
Book here: http://urbancoterie.co.uk/menus/
What better time to enjoy some of the busiest places in London than whilst the masses are retreating to Winter Wonderland and Hamley’s display.
There is no avoiding the festive ice skating rink, you can, however, enjoy the rest of Tower of London in the cold, winter sun. A beautiful spot on a beautiful winter’s day.
With various events in their year-round display, the V&A Museum of Childhood is a great place to spend your afternoon.
From photography exhibitions to Indian Warli Painting – it’s unlikely you will get bored here.
Admission is free.
Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA
If you’re looking to avoid the classic hearty Christmas dinner, then sushi is the perfect alternative.
Sushi Samba is 38 floors up with fantastic views across the City alongside brilliant Japanese-Brazillian-Peruvian food…the perfect anti-Christmas food.
Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, 39th Floor, London EC2N 4AY
Lucky for us Flat Iron has just opened in Shoreditch and with their simple but perfected menu, it’s a great place to treat yourself to a quick bite to eat.
The steak is priced at £10 + sides, and it’s one of our favourites. Flat Iron operates a no-bookings policy so be prepared to wait – but on Curtain Road, you won’t be short of places to grab a drink beforehand.
77 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, EC2A 3BS
Head a little further east to enjoy one of the best sourdough pizzas around, they serve locally cured meats and the most delicious warm chocolate brownies.
SODO is the perfect place to nestle down with friends and just enjoy your surroundings.
126 Upper Clapton Rd, London E5 9JY