Feeling festive yet? No? Don’t worry—we’ve packed in so much Christmas cheer below it might melt the heart of the biggest Scrooge. And if you’re not celebrating, I hope you can at least savour those two glorious days off that much of the country will indulge in. If you’re working through it—well, I salute you. Truly.
December, as ever, is bursting with Christmas markets, but one I’d particularly like to flag is the Tat Studio Sale. If you’re around West London, do drop by. You might just find something to make your heart sing—or, at the very least, a pastry to fuel your day (more information below).
Mid - Late November
Feldspar Christmas Pop-up, 15th November – 5th January, Corinthia London, Northumberland Ave, London, WC2N 5AE
Feldspar is thrilled to announce their first-ever pop-up shop is now open at the five-star Corinthia Hotel in London!! They have long dreamed of opening a store - their wares are all so tactile, they need to be held to be fully appreciated - so they are over the moon to be launching their first foray into shopkeeping in the luxurious surrounds of the beautiful Corinthia Hotel. Occupying the Northumberland Avenue Entrance, they have created a green-panelled store within the hotel, handmade walnut vitrines bursting with all their wares. This includes some brand-new objects for life launching at the pop-up that will be exclusively available there, some exciting new collaborations they’ve been working on, and all their classic collections!
‘A Time of Gifts’ - Curator&Maker Pop-up, 20th - 30th November, Myriad Antiques, 131 Portland Road, London, W11 4LW
Curator&Maker, a London-based pop-up retail experience known for championing the beauty of the handmade, returns for its sixth edition in Holland Park. A charming Christmas retail showcase, ‘A Time of Gifts’ brings together the very best of British creativity and craftsmanship, with thoughtfully curated delights perfect for yourself or as a present. This includes homeware, fashion, artwork, and children’s treasures from 12 carefully selected makers around the UK.
A giftable edit of fine art photo prints, artisanal ceramics, indigo textiles, homeware and party wear.
Join them in their Studio to celebrate all things festive! They’ll make mulled wine, hot chocolate, marmalade-toast pudding with double cream, and Christmas cake. Her Mum, Claire, will be making her much-loved rum and raisin tablet, jams, pickles, and piccalilli. It’s free entry/Open Studio. No tickets are required.
Matthew Warchus’ big-hearted, smash hit production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic returns to The Old Vic, joyously adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, His Dark Materials) and starring John Simm (Life on Mars, Grace) as Ebenezer Scrooge. A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium with mince pies, music and merriment. A unique staging immerses the audience in London’s longest-running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.
Winter Festival - Museum Of The Home, November 2024 - January 2025, Museum Of The Home, 136 Kingsland Road, London, E2 8EA
Reflect on the many traditions that mark the colder months as they unveil 400 years of winter at home. Museum of the Home's annual Winter Festival is back. With events spanning a range of cultural and historical festivals—from Diwali and Hanukkah to Christmas and Lunar New Year—the Museum will be the destination for appreciating winter in its many forms.
This autumn, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, one of the UK’s most cherished manor house hotels, welcomes acclaimed British artist and designer Jess Wheeler for an exclusive autumn-winter residency in its iconic Japanese gardens. Inspired by the fleeting beauty of autumn, ‘Leaf Shadows’ captures the ephemeral moment when a leaf falls onto the stone, makes an impression, and then drifts away, preserving that transient moment in time. Through a series of delicate sculptures, Jess immortalises the leaf’s silhouette using fossilised metal shapes carved into stone and set in raw metals. These works remind viewers of the beauty and fragility of nature, inviting a deeper connection to the environment.
The Importance of Being Earnest By Oscar Wilde, Now - 25th January 2025, Lyttelton Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX
A Trivial Comedy for Serious People. Being sensible can be excessively boring. At least Jack thinks so. While assuming the role of dutiful guardian in the country, he lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy takes on a similar facade. Unfortunately, living a double life has its drawbacks, especially regarding love. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster (Donmar’s Macbeth; Life of Pi) directs a joyful and flamboyant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom; Doctor Who) is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) and Hugh Skinner (W1A; Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again) in this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance.
M&C Saatchi Group and Saatchi Gallery reveal the six global winners of the Art for Change Prize 2024, an international art initiative open to artists working in the first five years of their careers. This year’s prize challenged emerging artists worldwide to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues through the theme ‘Tomorrow’ing: Visions of a Better Future.’ The winning artworks span a variety of media, including painting, photography, video, and mixed-media installations. Through their art, the winners highlight urgent global issues, offering creative solutions and raising awareness about the challenges of our times.
This festive season, the Beautiful & Useful Craft Fair is returning to the Garden Museum with a curated collection of Britain’s best designer-makers selling bold, bohemian and thoroughly beautiful handmade ceramics, textiles, art prints, jewellery, and homewares. Beautiful & Useful offers shoppers the chance to support small businesses, meet the makers and buy one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family this Christmas. Exhibitors will include The Curious Maker’s mechanical toys and velvet toadstool decorations; Jack Wheeler Woodcraft’s hand-carved, Japanese-inspired bowls, trays and spoons; Richard Pomeroy’s porcelain mugs in all the colours of the rainbow; and Jill Pargeter’s Arts & Crafts-inspired linen figures, keepsakes and lampshades which combine her love of history, nature and poetic verse.
Week Commencing - 1st - 8th December
Our much-loved Yard Sale returns with fantastic items, ranging from elegant homeware to unique studio clear-out bargains. It will transform into a bustling hub of unique finds and treasures, featuring an exciting mix of vendors, including Jam Jar Edit, Tatty Devine and Allday Goods. From distinctive homeware to stylish jewellery to practical products, this Yard Sale promises a wonderful experience, all in support of the Museum's social engagement and community outreach work, supporting causes including hidden homelessness, food equality, period poverty and climate action.
Don't miss this chance to discover one-of-a-kind items.
London Ceramics Christmas Market, 1st December, 12 - 5 pm, Hornsey Parish Church, 140 Cranley Gardens, London, N10 3AH
Visit the London Ceramics Christmas Market at Hornsey Parish Church for handmade ceramics by local potters and enjoy some mulled wine.
'I Remember It Well' The Christmas Edition With Judi Dench & Gyles Brandreth, 1st & 15th December, Fane Productions, Sondheim Theatre, 51 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6BA
On stage – in person – the incomparable Dame Judi Dench and Gyles Brandreth return to the West End for two unforgettable afternoons of pure delight. Quite simply, it’s the story of her life. Dame Judi joins her friend Gyles on a captivating journey down memory lane, revisiting her extraordinary life and unparalleled career – from her childhood in York in the 1930s to her latest Oscar nomination in 2022.
Expect Shakespeare, anecdotes galore, stories, sonnets, and a very special guest or two in what promises to be a two-hour party you’ll never forget.
Join artist Beth Rodway for an enchanting bauble painting workshop, perfectly timed to celebrate the festive season. During the workshop, Beth will guide you through creating three unique ceramic baubles inspired by the diverse and beautiful flora of Kew Gardens. You'll start by practicing on provided drawings, allowing you to perfect your designs before moving on to the ceramic baubles. All necessary materials, including acrylic paints, brushes, and ribbons, will be supplied. Beth will be available throughout the session, offering expert tips and tricks to help you create beautiful, festive decorations.
A selection of over 500 drawings, prints and works on paper by students graduating from The Drawing Year 2024 postgraduate-level programme. Exhibiting artists: Zoe Andrews, Bek Ashton, Ikesha Avo, Arthur Boothby, Akilah Chambers, Natalie Charles, Tom Cubitt, Samuel Donagh, Maj Lisa Dörig, Myrtle Glanville, Clover Godsal, Heera Gul, Isaac Heard, Phoebe Howard, Angus Macdonald, Paul Majek, Nancy Martin, Esme McMillan-Scott, George Meadows, Keziah Mornin, Carlos Pancorbo, Will Powers, Anna Redwood, Jack Shearing, Tobias Tatham, Rosie Tuff, Daniel C Turner, Roman Vaughan-Williams, Vito Walker, Rebecca Willing, Madeleine Wood.
Jack Penny: Blue Cheese At The Dot Project, 4th December – 31st January 2025, Teresa Tarmey, 206-208 Kensington Park Road, London, W11NR - Viewing Appointment Only
The Dot Project is pleased to announce Blue Cheese, a solo exhibition of new works by British artist Jack Penny. Known for his vibrant, dynamic narratives, Penny transforms familiar settings – dinners, social gatherings and the like – into reflections on the complexities of modern life. Penny takes a measured step away from his traditional creative approach for his new series, introducing more structure, clearer backgrounds and a touch of restraint. Yet, each piece begins with only a loose concept, allowing it to evolve instinctively and revel in the excitement of unpredictability and the pure sheer joy of painting. The characters escalate this approach, becoming disruptive forces that disturb the peace of their own environments, injecting moments of chaos into otherwise composed settings. They are thrilled to collaborate with Teresa Tarmey and integrate the work into her Notting Hill headquarters, located in a converted synagogue.
Tat London Studio Sale, 5th - 6th Dec 10am - 6pm,
We often get messages asking to visit the studio, and while we can’t always say yes, this time, we’d love to welcome you. The studio will be filled with discounts and a selection of unframed and well-priced art—ideal for gifting a loved one or, let’s be honest, yourself. There’ll be pastries and good cheer (both subject to the hour of your arrival). Come by and see what catches your eye!
Create Academy Presents: Festive Wreath Making With Willow Crossley, 5th December, 9:30 am - 3 pm, Thyme And Bertioli.
Join acclaimed florist and floral stylist Willow Crossley for a special festive wreath-making workshop.
In the morning you’ll watch Willow demonstrate as she designs and creates wreaths by hand using different types of fresh foliage, showing the various techniques she uses to create different effects.
Following lunch, it’s then a hands-on session where you will get to create your own wreath under the guidance of Willow. At the end of the day you’ll leave with a professionally styled wreath to take home and enjoy over the Christmas season.
Local talented artists, crafters, and designers will showcase their Christmas designs and locally handcrafted pieces as part of the display—it's the perfect place to stock up on seasonal treats for family and friends.
This three-day course is a hands-on experience, working with the three major etching and intaglio processes of hard ground, soft ground, and aquatint. Working on existing plates and new plates is encouraged, as is completing these plates to the finished print on paper.
A TOAST Festive Market, 6th - 22nd December, (Every Friday - Sunday) Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, London, N1C 4LW
A TOAST Festive Market returns to Coal Drops Yard in London this December. It will bring together independent makers in a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship during the festive season. A collection of unique handcrafted gifts will be available in the weeks leading up to Christmas, alongside TOAST gifting and festive decorations. There will be a changing programme of makers and events each weekend.
In an industry where mass-produced and unimaginative furniture is plentiful, "The Spotlight Market" offers a much-needed platform for some of the most talented furniture and decorative antique dealers in the trade. Located in the heart of East London, traders gather over two days, each curating their most unique and one-off pieces. Every dealer is carefully selected for their knowledge in their specialist area and talented eye for sourcing. This mix of experts means the event covers a broad range of eras and styles seamlessly blending. This is the one-stop shop for the design-conscious interior shopper.
Believe the hype! Centre Half & Friends at Pullens Yard Open Studios. You can expect textiles, garments, antiques, homewares and accessories. Save the date and see you there for cheer. Spread the word to your London folk and don’t forget to leave time to pop into the other yard studios too.
Flora Christmas Market, 7th December, 10 am - 4 pm, Flora, New Yard, Trelowarren, Mawgan, Cornwall, TR12 6A
Last year’s market was a real highlight, and they’re excited to host an incredible selection of local artists & craft folk. Amongst others: Hannah Lawrence, Sarah Johnson, The Seaweed Institute, Head & Haft, Parkminster Candles, Claudia Corbridge, Pica Rico, Raw Decoration, Samvado and Jenna Bray Ceramics. This year, they are delighted to welcome carols in the courtyard by The Eggnogs. Louise will be running a table decoration workshop, and back by popular demand will be the mince pie-making competition with the prize this year, a year’s worth of cardamom buns. Judged again this year by esteemed Chef Clare Latimer. The cafe will be open as usual with a full selection of Danish Christmas treats, glögg & hot dogs.
Travelling The Silk Road: From London To Beijing, 7th December, 12:15 – 13:15, British Library Knowledge Centre, Bronte Room, 96 Euston Rd, London, NW1 2DB
Join Christopher Wilton-Steer, creator of The Silk Road: A Living History exhibition and its newly released companion book, as he shares insights from his epic 40,000km overland journey from London to Beijing. Over four months, Christopher travelled by car, bus, train, ferry, horse, and camel through 16 countries across Eurasia. In this talk, he will take you on a photographic journey from Europe to China, exploring the rich variety of cultures he encountered. His photographs capture the intricate relationships between these cultures, revealing how their histories continue to shape the present and highlighting the lasting legacy of the Silk Road, which has connected Eurasia for over 2,000 years. This talk is based on Christopher's book The Silk Road: A Living History, a stunning volume featuring over 150 photographs celebrating the rich diversity of cultures he encountered on his epic journey.
This beloved festive favourite features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and Crouch End Festival Chorus. Since its debut in 2013, Home Alone in Concert has become a seasonal favourite with orchestras and audiences around the world!
They're thrilled to bring their collection of botanical, niche and nature-bound perfumes to @primrosehilldesignersale. It’s great to travel further afield and see faces old and new. This fair is full to brim with showstopper makers.
Silk Road Bazaar,7th December, 11 am – 5 pm, British Library, Entrance Hall, 96 Euston Rd, London, NW1 2DB
Step into the world of ancient trade routes and traditions at their Silk Road Bazaar. Enjoy a day of exploration as artisans and craftspeople representing counties along the Silk Road showcase their finest products. They bring together the rich heritage, art and flavours from the legendary Silk Road, stretching from Asia to the Mediterranean. From intricate textiles and embroidery to handcrafted jewellery and exotic teas, the bazaar offers a unique chance to experience the cultural treasures that have travelled across continents for centuries.
Let’s make Christmas Special for All. Sing along with their friendly and tuneful Singing Scholars and top-class trumpeters! At Christmas time, people often use words like ‘home’ and ‘family’. Many will gather to celebrate and be together. But for many people today, such connection and security feel out of reach, and comfort feels far away.
They're incredibly excited to announce the friends joining them for my Winter Open Studio this year. They will be joined by a galaxy of (Christmas) stars. They hope you can make it along!
Week Commencing - 8th - 15th December
Dennis Severs’ House are delighted to invite you to their exclusive Christmas shopping event. Throughout the year, their talented friends have been designing, sewing, printing, and potting treats to conjure for your delectation. They have assembled a magnificent range of products specially made for Dennis Severs’ House, which are now available to buy. In addition, they will also be offering a collection of rare and exciting antique and vintage stocking fillers, and Christmas presents that you’ll find nowhere else. This is the ideal opportunity to do your Christmas shopping in just one swoop, all within the bewitching interiors of 18 Folgate Street.
I’m not living with you. They occupy the same cage. The Pollitt family gathers to celebrate a birthday, but behind the smiles is a family in crisis. With Brick and Maggie’s marriage plagued by secrets and deceit, the question of legacy lingers. As the family confront the impending death of their patriarch, a war of truth and lies is waged. Following her Olivier Award-winning production of A Streetcar Named Desire, Almeida Associate Director Rebecca Frecknall (Cabaret; Summer and Smoke) directs BAFTA nominee Kingsley Ben-Adir (Bob Marley: One Love; Barbie) and Golden Globe nominee Daisy Edgar-Jones (Normal People; Twisters) in Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play.
Join Senior Curator Daniel Robbins for this special evening candlelit tour of Leighton House. This is an opportunity to learn more about Leighton and the house he created and to experience its beautiful interiors in a memorable, atmospheric way. The tour includes museum areas not normally open to the public and a complimentary glass of wine on arrival.
Take time out to relax and unwind from the Christmas rush at RHS Garden Bridgewater with this Botanical Relief Hanging Decorations Workshop. The workshop begins with a discovery journey through the botanicals of winter. You’ll then get hands-on with clay to learn the art of botanical bas-relief. Tutor Janet will give you step-by-step instructions on how to create your own trio of botanical hanging decorations. Once done, they will be ready to adorn your tree or to give as a special gift.
Discover a food lover's winter wonderland at this year's Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre. By popular demand, this much-loved event is back for two glittering weekends. There is no better way to kick off a festive season to remember!
The exhibition Hidden Noise Idiom is a hybrid endeavour: the launch of the seventh volume of the journal Bricks from the Kiln, nested within a presentation of industrial design in collaboration with Fels. The staging sets out an environment of objects and furniture, texts and typography that offer, in different ways, the seeds of new noise. The environment presents both function and display, making itself a surrogate model of the editorial concept of Bricks from the Kiln: what it means for a publication to be a container —to act openly as the shell for contributors to fill with any subjects or obsessions that preoccupy them — a structure that is paradoxical in being not ruin, nor diagram, nor architecture, but an economical set of permutations that are rational in one sense, yet defiantly flexible to move, to hold differently, to readdress.
The 5th Interiors Boot Sale is back, bring cash.
SAVE THE DATE. Accept no imitations! The original and best @birdsmouthstudio sale is on again! New makers and treasures!
Celebrate the festive season with this one-day-only makers’ market, and peruse unique pieces handcrafted by some of London’s most exciting names in art and design. Eat, drink, and be merry. Featuring: Attua Aparicio. Jesse Beagley. Flavia Braendle. Irenie Cossey. Martino Gamper. HATO PRESS. Jochen Holz. Kasia Kempa. Rio Kobayashi. Michael Marriott. Poetic Pastel. Will Shannon. Amy Tai. The Tweed Project. Hannah Rings. Bethan Laura Wood. Keita Takemura. Dent de leone and more!!
Discover the magic behind Christmas cinema at The Soho Hotel. They are hosting a special festive event with Fashion & Cinema to celebrate the 70th anniversary White Christmas. Enjoy mulled wine and a screening of this timeless movie introduced by film and theatre historian and curator Keith Lodwick.
The film brought together some of the most beloved and talented performers of the time and has now become a classic of Christmas cinema. The dazzling costumes of White Christmas were designed by the legendary Edith Head, whose bold use of colour, sparkle, and intricate details epitomise 1950s fashion. Before the screening, Keith Lodwick will discuss how Head's distinct style defined films of the era and added a touch of old Hollywood glamour to the festive genre.
Week Commencing - 15th - 22nd December
The TP Caring Spaces Carol Concert returns in December 2024 after a hugely successful inaugural edition last year. Once again, it is guaranteed to be a truly joyful occasion with magical musical moments, plenty of fabulously festive carols, and heart-warming and humorous readings from familiar faces from the world of design. All this entertainment will take place in the awe-inspiring venue of St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, London.
New Film Releases
Rumours (6th December), Queer (13th December), Mufasa (20th December)
Antique Fairs & Markets
Auctions
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