From skating and ice sculpting to shopping and Santa Claus, Canary Wharf has Christmas wrapped up

The iconic, cosmopolitan Canary Wharf will be buzzing with Christmas cheer over the winter months with a stellar line-up of festive events and an impressive 200 shops, bars and restaurants offering tempting treats and an array of gifts, perfect for under the tree.

Returning for the 7th year, the spectacular Canary Wharf Ice Rink – London’s longest running ice rink - will welcome skaters from Saturday 12 November 2011 to Sunday 19 February 2012. Launched last year by Olympic medallist and Dancing on Ice contestant Sharron Davies MBE and the The Imperial Ice Stars, the rink offers some of the best facilities in London...and with The Park Pavilion home to Canteen, ROKA, the parlour and Wahaca on its doorstep, those who prefer to wrap-up warm and soak up the ambiance are well catered for too.

For little ones brimming with holiday spirit, Canary Wharf offers an array of magical events and performances to enchant even the most lively and excitable of children. Celebrations kick off with Santa’s Arrival Weekend on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2011, as Santa’s Grotto - a spectacular sleigh pulled by two giant reindeer – arrives in Jubilee Place. With Santa in residence every weekend throughout December and during the final week before Christmas, there is plenty of time to tell him your Christmas wishes and support the Richard House Children’s Hospice, who receive a donation for every child that visits.

On Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2011, Santa and his friends will also be busy entertaining in Canary Wharf’s East Wintergarden at Santa’s Showtime, a spectacular free festive show for all the family to enjoy.  Elsewhere, those ‘Little Helpers’ looking for a more hands-on activity should visit the shopping malls for free art and craft workshops and face painting, running every weekend throughout December.

With the children busy preparing for the festive season ahead, why not take the opportunity to go Christmas shopping. The annual festive shopping event returns on Thursday 1 December 2011, with fashion shows, on-stage entertainment, demonstrations, tempting in-store discounts and goodie bag giveaways enticing Christmas shoppers to both Cabot Place and Jubilee Place.

With an impressive array of luxury and aspirational brands including Tiffany & Co, Links of London, Jo Malone, Molton Brown, Aquascutum, Hackett, Myla and Jaeger London, Canary Wharf has something for everyone, whether it’s a gift for a loved one or that perfect party dress for the celebrations ahead.

Looking to 2012, Canary Wharf will once again host the world-class London Ice Sculpting Festival from Friday 13 - Sunday 15 January 2012, welcoming international artists back to Canary Wharf for a fantastic three days of fast-paced sculpting, chiselling and carving.

Camille Waxer, Chief Administrative Officer at Canary Wharf Group plc comments: “Canary Wharf really comes alive at Christmas. With so many unique festive events, one of the London’s best ice rinks and a first-class retail and restaurant offering, Canary Wharf buzzes from the moment the Christmas lights turn on to when the last skater leaves the ice in February.”

All Canary Wharf Arts & Events are listed at www.canarywharf.com

Make your Christmas a Basingstoke Christmas, this year!

Make your Christmas a Basingstoke Christmas, this year!

What’s On Guides: Festival Place shopping centre Christmas activity
Hampshire-based shopping centre, Festival Place, is gearing up for the Christmas season this year with a ho ho host of events for all the family!

Christmas Light Switch On 18 November from 5pm Hosted by TV presenter Olly Smith and featuring Hollywood stars Alvin & The Chipmunks and music by Fil Straughton and friends, this star-packed event is a great start to the festive season.

Santa Parade and Fun with Santa 4 December
Santa will be the star of the parade driving the smallest car in the world, accompanied on his journey by music, comedy and Christmas characters.


Santa’s Grotto 8 November - 24 December
Santa will be waiting in his Grotto ready to receive Christmas wishes from local children.


Nativity Petting Farm 10 & 17 December 11am - 3pm
A charming scene including animals from the traditional Nativity Story, all gathered in a special petting farm.

Christmas Storytelling and Nativity Treasure Hunt 22 & 23 December

Live Nativity 24 December midday

After a small parade, local church groups (and live animals!) will hold a live dramatisation of the Christmas story, followed by carol singing.

Further details of all events can be found on Festival Place’s website, as well as information on gift wrapping services, ticket lines and Christmas opening hours.

To find out more just visit www.festivalplace.co.uk
 

Winter Wonderland celebrates its 5th year with a magical new Ice Rink

The UKs spectacular winter event returns to Hyde Park for the 5th year running with FREE admission and even more entertainment and new attractions. Friday 18th November 2011 to Tuesday, 3rd January 2012 10am to 10pm every day (on 18th November 2011 only - opens at 5pm)

Since its launch in 2007, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has attracted a staggering 8 million visitors, it's firmly becoming the Capital’s most popular and dazzling winter event, offering the best Christmas day out. With beautifully decorated attractions set out across 20 acres of historic parkland, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland provides festive fun over seven whole weeks in the heart of London. 

Celebrity fans including Prince Harry, Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer & Matthew Vaughn, Chris Martin, Tom Cruise, Liam Gallagher, Louise & Jamie Redknapp, Alexandra Burke, Fearne Cotton and Liz Hurley have all been spotted enjoying Winter Wonderland’s festivities.

At night the ice rink will be transformed, as suspended above the rink will be 108,000 pea-lights illuminating the ice, creating a magical atmosphere for skaters. With 1000 skates available for hire, PWR Events are expecting 120,000 skaters to take to the new ice rink over the seven week run. 

Other favourite attractions making a welcome return include the iconic Giant Observation Wheel and the beautiful Angels Christmas Market. The Market will feature over one hundred wooden chalets offering unusual and handmade gifts, including ceramics, candles, glass-work, jewellery, clothing and beauty products.

A number of stalls will also feature traditional Christmas items such as wooden toys, nativity scenes and decorations. Last year Father Christmas handed out over 50,000 presents to well behaved children in Santa Land, and he will make a welcome return this year as an ever popular free attraction.

                                                                                                                    

The UK’s favourite circus, Zippos Circus also returns to Winter Wonderland for a third season, with two completely new shows – a daytime show for all the family, Zippos Christmas Circus and an evening show for older thrill seekers, Zippos Cirque Extreme.

Zippos Christmas Circus explores how Christmas is celebrated around the world, with outstanding circus acts and even Father Christmas! At under an hour in length this bite size show is perfect for family audiences.

For thrill seekers everywhere, Cirque Extreme is a jaw dropping, daredevil show which combines some of the most thrilling and dangerous acts the world of circus has to offer.  

Top of the bill is the Motorbike Globe of Death, a beyond-thrilling spectacle starring three extraordinary Brazilians riding together at up to 60mph in an unbelievably small steel globe.  Also on show will be death defying antics on the Adrenaline Wheel and Swinging Trapeze, reckless fire juggling and acrobatic Break Dancing. 

This year, there will be even more bars, cafes, restaurants and eateries. Highlights include the new Carousel Bar, which rotates gently whilst you sip your mulled wine and the Bavarian Village where you’ll find Bratwurst, bars and live music, which has become a popular hot spot for the after work crowd. In addition, there will also be the authentic Spiegel Saloon situated within a stunning ballroom, with its cosy booths, tables and chairs and cabaret acts you can shut out the crisp winter air whist enjoying a fantastic range of warming meals.

There will also be three new and exhilarating thrill rides in the Alpine Adventure area alongside the ever popular Power Tower, Christmas Coaster, Avalanche and Ski Jump Swing as well as more traditional rides and games throughout Winter Wonderland.

With 500,000 Bratwursts on order and 330,000 cups of mulled wine ready to be served, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is set to be a fantastic day out for everyone, so be sure to book your tickets early and make Winter Wonderland part of your Christmas tradition.

Follow them at:

www.facebook.com/winterwonderlanduk

www.twitter.com/hydeparkwinter

Listings

Tickets are now on sale for the Ice Rink, Giant Observation Wheel & Live Big Top shows: Cirque Extreme and Zippo’s Christmas Circus.

Dates:                    Friday 18th November 2011 – Tuesday 3rd January 2012 (closed Christmas day)

Times:                    10am – 10pm daily (except 18th November – opens from 5pm)

Entry:                     Winter Wonderland is FREE to enter, there is no admission fee

Online:                   www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Box office:             0844 858 6755 (See Tickets) / 0844 847 1771 (Ticketmaster)

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Treat Yourself to a Pyrex Christmas!

With Christmas just around the corner, it really is time to get planning how to feed the family this festive season. From peeling the potatoes to working out how long to cook the turkey for, Christmas dinner can be one of the most stressful meals of the year. (Not to mention making sure you don’t disappoint the in-laws!)

With this in mind, Pyrex have a few hints & tips to help your festive season run as smoothly as can be and help minimise your stress levels:

• Be prepared by using the Pyrex 4in1 Plus range, glass containers with sealing lids, food can be prepared, stored and even reheated so that you are never left rushing at the last minute
• Use the same products to serve and to cook in – this will save time, dishes and ultimately washing up. The Pyrex Wave range can withstand temperatures of up to 250°C and will look great on your table
• Don’t waste time slaving away at the kitchen sink on Christmas Day washing up, use non-stick products such as Pyrex Non-Stick Bakeware or the new Silicone Bakeware range for your roasties and Yorkshire Puddings
• Don’t be eating Christmas pudding all the way into February, if not all your guests are Christmas Pud fans, why not make individual ones for those who are, using the new Pyrex Mini Glass Bowls

And with the Red Wave range, Pyrex have the perfect addition to Christmas dinner – both in the kitchen and on the dining table. Not only does the Red Wave benefit from Pyrex’s trademark durability, its stylish design and striking red colour means it won’t look out of place with your other Christmas table decorations.

For more information or recipes, please visit www.pyrexuk.com.

Christmas in Belgravia: Camels, Carol Singers, Christmas Lights and the best of Festive Shopping!

This Christmas Grosvenor’s picturesque Belgravia estate will be transformed into a winter wonderland. With the annual Belgravia Christmas Sunday, Christmas Lights Switch-On events and tempting offers across its many unique boutiques, bars and restaurants, Belgravia celebrates the festive season in style. Not only that, but with a brand new online gift guide, savvy shoppers can plan ahead and track down the perfect Christmas gift before the festive season begins.

On Sunday 4 December, Pimlico Road and neighbouring Elizabeth Street will celebrate Belgravia Christmas Sunday. A haven from the busy high street, visitors can soak up Belgravia’s unique charm and take in the stunning Christmas lights, while enjoying the delicious food and drink on offer and browsing some of the stalls that line the street.

The three-wise-men will also be paying a visit, bringing real camels into the heart of London’s best loved village! Joining them will be Father Christmas and a host of ‘Christmas helpers’ and carol singers who will entertain throughout the day. A festival of twinkling lights, Christmas cheer and only 10 minutes walk from Victoria (national rail & tube) Knightsbridge and Sloane Square (tube); Belgravia Christmas Sunday is one of London’s most authentic festive events.

Meanwhile, Motcomb Street will kick off the Christmas season with the inaugural Motcomb Street Christmas Lights Switch On on Thursday 1 December from 6-8.30pm. With entertainment from the Household Cavalry Quintet, the IDMC Gospel Choir, jazz bands and more, this charming cobbled street will come alive with Christmas cheer.

Launching for the very first time this year will be the Mayfair & Belgravia Christmas Inspiration website. By visiting www.grosvenorlondon.com keen shoppers can browse a selection of festive gifts on offer throughout the estate, creating their very own unique ‘Wishlist’. From glamorous to gourmet; stocking filler to budget blow out, this online gift guide has inspiration for everyone – and maps to plan the perfect shopping trip!

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Heartwarming gifts for the whole family this Christmas

Make Christmas count this year with an extra special gift from British Heart Foundation (BHF) Shops. With a wide range of gifts for the whole family, getting into the festive spirit couldn’t be easier and all sales will continue the BHF’s fight against heart disease. Visit one of our 670 BHF Shops or shop online giftshop.bhf.org.uk to discover how you can make a real difference this Christmas.

For her

Ladies fur gloves: From brrr to grrr these leopard print fur trimmed gloves are a great gift for glamorous ladies! £4.99

 

Red hot water bottle: Let her snuggle this cute, knitted hot water bottle this Christmas. It’s certainly heart warming! £9.99

 

Deer necklace: Animal jewellery is set to be big this winter. Let her show she’s got the fashion know-how with this deer pendent £2.99

 

Women’s fur tapper hat: Another great winter warmer. £12.99

 

Clasp purse: This classic fuchsia pink purse is a real eye catcher throughout those winter months. £7.99 

 

Owl ring: This owl ring will glam up to any festive outfit and is a great stocking filler for budding fashionistas. £1.99

 

Hearts umbrella: This pretty frill detail umbrella will brighten up any winter’s day. £14.99

 

Green mosaic lantern: A pretty touch to any lounge this Christmas. £24.99

 

Rose draw liners: These rose scented draw liners make winter woollies extra inviting this year. £9.99 (for a box of 20)

For him

Men’s striped scarf: This striped scarf is a stylish accessory that’ll keep him warm this winter. £9.99

 

50 cars that changed the world book: For all those car mad men! This book is some great food for thought. £12.99

 

Union jack alarm clock: Turn him into an early bird this Christmas with this cool union jack alarm clock. He’ll never oversleep again! £9.99

 

Poker set: This casino-style Texas Hold’em poker set is ideal for a lad’s night in. Contains gaming mat, 200 professional poker chips and 2 decks of playing cards. £9.99

 

Rugby cufflinks: Get him looking smart this Christmas with these rugby cufflinks. £9.99

London taxi plant pot: The perfect gift for all those green fingered lads. This London taxi plant pot adds an iconic touch to any kitchen. £18.99

 

Golf club boxed pen set: The ideal gift set for golfing fanatics, these pens are cleverly disguised as different types of golf clubs. £9.99

Aeroplane socks: The fun aeroplane print and ‘high flyer’ text on these socks makes them perfect for any career mad man!  £4.99

 

Personalised folding pliers:  An ideal gift for the gadget hungry man. £19.99

 

Incredible sports facts playing cards: The diehard sports fans dream! These playing cards will keep him entertained for hours. £4.99

For the kids

Personalised pencils: These personalised pencils are bound to make your little one feel special this Christmas. £10.99 (for 12 pencils)

 

Magnetic letters set: A great way to get your baby learning throughout the festive season. £12.99

 

Knitting doll: A sweet gift to keep your little one’s busy. Wool and knitting needle included. £6.99

 

Wooden marble castle run: This traditional wooden marble run will keep them entertained for hours. £34.99

 

Make a clock: Get them thinking this Christmas. Make a clock is an educational and fun kit which will help them make a real working clock. £14.99

To view the full range visit www.giftshop.bhf.org.uk

FACTFILE:
Last year BHF Shops raised over £26 million to help the BHF fight heart disease the nation’s single biggest killer.

BHF Shops sell 90,000 items everyday and have over 19,000 volunteers.

The BHF now has over 670 Shops. Our aim is for everyone in the UK to have a local British Heart Foundation Shop.

The charity now has over 120 Furniture and Electrical Stores across England, Scotland and Wales.

For more information on British Heart Foundation Shops or to find your local shop please visit bhf.org.uk/shops -The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is the nation’s heart charity, dedicated to saving lives through pioneering research, patient care, campaigning for change and by providing vital information. But we urgently need help. We rely on donations of time and money to continue our life-saving work. Because together we can beat heart disease.