At Christmas - Life's a Ball in London
So, you’re staying in London over Christmas and are extremely excited about the shopping at Harrods, the decorations at Hamleys, the beautiful lights through the city and the Christmas markets. But perhaps you’re looking for something extra to make your Christmas celebrations extra special. In which case, how about a Christmas Ball? London is full of them, from the traditional high-end extravaganzas at the world-famous hotels to the slightly more unusual events to give you something different. Below is a list of ideas to get you thinking.
The Black and White Christmas Ball
This is one to consider if you have a small group of you – tables at the ball seat ten. In the gorgeous Hotel Russell, this ball has a champagne reception, Christmas carols, a caricature artist, a three-course dinner and dancing until 1am included in the price of about £75 per person. Oh, and a white-chocolate fountain. As you might have guessed from the name, the dress code is Black and White – and very posh. The Hotel Russell is remarkably ostentatious and stunning, and has the glamour you would imagine of a top London hotel. If you can spend a little extra, you could even stay here rather than making your way back to another hotel.
Christmas at Altitude
If you love a good city skyline and have a bit of cash to splash about, check out the “Christmas in the Sky” party within the Millbank Tower. Up on the 28th and 29th floors with gorgeous views over the city are London Sky Bar and Altitude 360˚ for drinks, as well as the View Studios and the Millbank Media Centre for dining. Christmas packages range from about £45 to £125, and all include a three-course dinner and wine. This is quite a special place to be, and something rather flash to do on your visit to London. Check out the website, but be prepared for one of the most excruciatingly cheesy opening videos ever.
Torture Garden Christmas Ball
Just the name should give you a hint that this is not going to be your average Christmas ball. The Torture Garden is Europe’s largest and most famous fetish club. Based in Brixton, the dress code is strictly rubber, leather, PVC and anything that would get you stared at in the street. The Christmas balls here, however, go one better and impose a Winter Wonderland theme full of fantastical costumes and decorations, and this is a proper opportunity to let loose and go for it on the dressing up. It isn’t for the faint-hearted and you need to be over 21 to get in, but it’s a hell of an experience. Tickets are £28 in advance or £32 on the door (if they haven’t sold out).