National homelessness charity Crisis is offering not one but three opportunities to dive into the icy depths of London's outdoor swimming facilities for the Crisis Midwinter Swim fundraiser this year. The King's Cross Pond Club will hold 100 swimmers (Dec 5), the lovely, art deco Brockwell Lido will see hundreds of swimmers in fancy dress making a splash (Dec 12) and Tooting Bec Lido will host races for solo swimmers and relay teams (Jan 23). The registration fee covers the cost of reserving a place for a homeless person at Crisis this Christmas, and participants will receive a swimming cap and a hot drink to help them warm up after taking the plunge.
Pretty wooden chalets will fill the space between the Tate Modern and the Thames once more in 2015 for this traditional Christmas market. Browse handmade wooden toys, unique jewellery, intricate decorations and plenty more, then tuck into bratwurst, crêpes, roasted nuts or a warming cup of glühwein. A carousel and festive music help add to the Christmas spirit.
A glorious backdrop and special events help make a trip to this outdoor rink one of the capital's most festive outings.
The grand 18th-century courtyard that is home to Somerset House ice rink provides a stunning location for a skating session this winter – and no matter how unimpressive your skills a trip to this 900-square-metre outdoor rink will look the very definition of festive fun on Instagram. There are lots of tempting extras too: the Fortnum's Lodgewill offer champagne, afternoon tea and even private dining; Club Nights will feature DJs from Ministry of Sound and Island Records. The Christmas Arcade will bring posh shopping from Fortnum & Mason, and guests can admire the skaters with drink in hand at the Botanical Bar, both of which can be accessed without a ticket.
