Baby It's Cold Outside
No two ways about it. January in London is cold. We very occasionally have snow, but generally no more than a dusting. However, it’s certainly the case that if you venture out of our warm and cozy Christian guest house, you’ll need some pointers from us on winter activities that won’t bring on a nasty case of frostbite or chilblains. In the interests of keeping all our guests warm and comfortable, here’s our helpful list of winter-friendly indoor attractions.
The Emirates Stadium Tour and Museum
The stadium is only a short walk from us. A variety of tours are available, you can wander round the museum and then stoke up for the walk home with a hot drink and snack from the historic Chapman’s kiosk, just outside the stadium. To find out more, click here.
Wesley’s Chapel and Museum of Methodism
This fascinating and inspiring museum in Shoreditch tells the story of Methodism from its earliest days to the present time. If you have a group of 6 or more, you’ll need to book, otherwise, just turn up.
The Museum of London
The Museum of London is spread across two London sites, the original in Barbican and the new Docklands museum. Telling the story of the capital from its very beginnings up to the present day, both museums have free entry, lots of fascinating permanent galleries, interactive activities and special exhibitions. You can see the London Cauldron (the iconic Olympic Torch from the London 2021 Olympics), visit “Beasts of London”, an immersive digital installation up to 5th January, wander around “The Clash: London Calling” and visit the “The Krios of Sierra Leone” exhibition. Check out both sites here.
The Play Spot
The Play Spot is a warm and welcoming soft play centre in Finsbury Park, ideal for younger children and families. You can relax with a hot drink and a snack while the little ones run off all that energy in a safe and fun environment. See here for more information.
The British Museum
The British Museum is one of the capital’s most iconic sites. Conveniently located in leafy Bloomsbury (nearest tube station is Tottenham Court Road, two minutes’ walk away), it houses a remarkable range of artefacts and treasures telling the story of human history, art and culture. Entry is free and it’s handily surrounded by cafes, coffee shops and restaurants, find out more.
Somerset House
Somerset House has a wide range of activities in January. You can skate there up until 12th January, while the Museum of Architecture’s Gingerbread City Exhibition runs until 5th January. Check out their site for more.
The National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square is chock-full of beautiful paintings and is easy to get to. Charing Cross, Embankment and Leicester Square tube stations are all very close. The gallery has a huge collection of portraits, from Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Victorian right through to contemporary works. There are any number of exhibitions running throughout the year, so checking the website is vital. The gallery has a wide range of family events, including free materials and resources.
Whatever the weather, London has plenty to offer. We wish you a happy (and warm!) stay.