Making the most of your time in London - festive edition

If you’re lucky enough to have booked yourself onto one of our training courses in London over the holiday season (or if you’re thinking about booking one) then making the most of London during this period is an absolute must. London is a melting pot of different cultures, languages and traditions so we like to think there’s a little something for everyone.

During the day, our training courses allow you to engage with our expert tutors, network with your peers and soak up much newfound knowledge. However, we don’t think the exploration should end there. Once your day of learning has ended, or if you decide to stay for a few extra days, here are some of our festive favourites to keep you busy in this bustling big city.

Bright lights, big city  

If there’s one thing London does well, it’s combining a shopping trip with a spectacular light show, so if you’re a fan too, we can guarantee you will be spoilt for choice. If you have a big Christmas list to tackle but still want to see London in all its lit up glory, say no more. Whether it’s Oxford Street’s famous Big Day of Joy (which also includes street performances and a variety of activities), Covent Garden’s giant baubles and mistletoe or Carnaby Street’s extravagantly themed installations, we can guarantee you will be spoilt for choice. Soaking up London’s festive lights is the perfect strolling activity after a long day.

Speaking of lights... 

The streets aren’t the only thing lit up during the holiday season…

London is a city known for its cosy pubs and historical buildings and one of the most famous of them all is The Churchhill Arms. If you’re looking for the perfect festive Instagram snapshot to show off your London adventures, this is the place for you; this pub dresses its exterior in festive foliage and a whopping 22,000 twinkling lights during the festive season! And it doesn’t stop there. Once you’re done taking in its exterior, the pub’s delicious Thai food menu and roaring fires await you inside 

A performance fit for royalty 

For a spot of festive entertainment when visiting London, the Royal Albert Hall is a must. Just a 13 minute walk from where our London training courses are held, not only is it an iconic venue (notable past performers and speakers include Nelson Madela, The Beatles and Elton John) but it’s also rather easy on the eye. The Royal Albert Hall has the most eclectic list of shows to choose from, so whether you’re a soul music fan or more of an opera enthusiast, there will be something for you to enjoy.

A botanical world of beauty

If you ever find yourself with some extra time in London, the world-famous Kew Gardens is a must-visit all year round, but between November and January, it gets very seasonal! Kew Gardens hosts a two-hour light tour which consists of an illuminated trail complete with sparkling tunnels, a festive fairground and lots of delicious food to enjoy along the way. Best of all, the gardens close at 10 pm so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy this evening activity once you’ve booked your ticket.

Winter southern comfort 

Like most places in London, this cool new destination south of the river is steeped in history. Between the 1930s and the 1980s, Battersea Power Station was an actual working power station which supplied electricity to many of London’s landmarks including the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. After remaining derelict for decades, in 2022, this iconic south London development sprang back into action and is now a go-to destination for Londoners who want to eat, shop and play. During the festive season you can expect much of the same but with the addition of a riverside ice rink, beautiful lights, arts and crafts and an array of live performances to help you unwind after a day of learning.

A guaranteed winter warmer 

If you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience while you’re in London, then Coppa Club has you covered (literally). Why? Be  cause nothing quite says “winter festivities” like dining under the stars in a winter igloo with a stunning view of London’s Tower Bridge. Offering a taste of the Alps in The Big Smoke, Coppa Club’s igloos provide a private dining space surrounded by beautiful scenery. Although blankets are provided within the igloos, it’s advisable to layer up for that added cosiness. Oh, and be sure to book in advance as these intimate igloos are often in demand.

The perfect opportunity to explore 

At VantagePoint, we believe that destination training is the perfect opportunity to explore and immerse yourself in new experiences. Our tutors are well acquainted with the locations they train in and are always on hand to help provide extra recommendations while you’re with us.

If you haven’t already booked one of our training courses but would like to see what else you can fit into your diary this year, take a look at our course schedule below.

Our London courses are held at the charming Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel in Kensington, just walking distance from many of London's fantastic museums and galleries. The nearest tube station is across the road making it the perfect location for navigating and exploring London after a day of learning. 

The beautiful Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt at night; the location of our London training courses

One of the conference rooms at the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt

The stately exterior of the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt