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If you’re after a break from opening presents or picking at your fifth plate of leftovers, there’s lots to get up to in London. You can take a dip in Hampton Pool, watch other people take a dip to try and win the Peter Pan Cup, or take in the sights of an empty lit-up London from a tour bus. Be sure to check your travel routes as there’ll be reduced service over the Christmas break.
1. The Peter Pan Cup
Taking place annually on Christmas morning on the Serpentine lake in Hyde Park, the Peter Pan Cup is a 100-yard race that only members of the Serpentine Swimming Club can take part in. Nothing says Merry Christmas quite like watching swimmers take a freezing dip while you’re toasty on the sidelines.
Hyde Park. Tube: Hyde Park Corner. Wed Dec 25. Free.
2. Hampton Pool
Take to the water at Hampton Pool to rid yourself of that Xmas Eve hangover. Open from 8am until noon, the West London spot is open 365 days a year, with its water heated to a toasty 28 degrees every day.
Hampton Pool. Hampton rail. All year. From £2.75.
3. Church service at Westminster Cathedral
If you feel like kicking off the day with a traditional blessing, head to Westminster Cathedral to catch mass and morning prayers with plenty of time to get stuck into the Christmas festivities.
Westminster Cathedral. Tube: Victoria. All year. Free.
4. JW3 ice rink
As well as being a hub of Jewish arts, culture and community activity, JW3 is also home to a 70-person-capacity ice rink in the winter months. Unlike many others, the outdoor pop-up rink will be ready with vibrant music and mulled wine on Christmas Day.
Jewish Community Centre. Finchley Rd & Frognal Overground. Until Jan 5. From £8.
5. Christmas Lights Open-top Bus Tour
Rushed Xmas shopping means that you might not have had the time to take in the Christmas lights along Regent Street or Piccadilly Circus so treat yourself top an open-top bus tour to take in London at its most festive. Check the Golden Tours website for more info.
Victoria. Tube: Victoria. Wed Dec 25. From £20.
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