THE ULTIMATE WINTER GUIDE TO LONDON | ARK EDITION

Winter in London is truly one of a kind. The days are crisp, the evenings are cosy, and the cultural calendar is still full. But with so much going on, how do you choose what to do and when? From nature walks and comfort food to underground film festivals, winter arts events and ARK-style community moments, this is your ultimate winter guide to London…

Nature & outdoors

There’s something special about getting outside in winter. The air is fresher, the parks are quieter and the views are unmatched. Hampstead Heath is an easy weekend win - wide open paths, winter sunlight stretching across the ponds and that iconic Parliament Hill lookout. Take a friend, a flatmate or your best podcast and wander until you can feel your shoulders drop.

If you want calm, head to Kew Gardens in January or February. With the festive rush over, the gardens are still, bright and peaceful. The glasshouses are warm when you need a break from the cold and the treetop walkway feels almost dreamlike in the winter light. For ultimate Christmas vibes though, be sure to get tickets to Christmas at Kew.

Richmond Park also comes alive this time of year. The deer are more active, the mornings are misty and quiet, and the entire park feels like you’ve stepped far outside the city -  even though you’re still in Zone 4. It’s the perfect reset.

Food & drink

Winter is the most delicious season in London. Borough Market on a cold day is unbeatable - with the steam (and smells!) from hot food stalls and the crowds all wrapped up and wandering between bakeries and street-food spots, it really is the ideal Saturday morning stroll.

Sundays, though, are for pubs. London does roasts better than anywhere, and winter is when they shine. From the Harwood Arms in Fulham to The Pelican in Notting Hill or The Duke of Cambridge in Angel, there’s no shortage of cosy corners and comfort food that warms you up from the inside out.

For evenings with a bit more energy, gather friends and try hotpot in Chinatown - the perfect antidote to freezing evenings. It’s fun, sociable and great for groups.

Burns Night also deserves a spot on your winter calendar. London celebrates it properly with whisky tastings, supper clubs, live music and poetry popping up across the city.

Indoor culture

Shorter days mean more time indoors -- but in London, that’s honestly not a bad thing. 

Start with the Barbican Conservatory. It’s a warm, tropical escape tucked inside a brutalist icon, and it feels even more magical in January when everything else is grey. Take a book, take a friend, or just wander.

Winter is also prime cinema season. The BFI Southbank is unbeatable for indie and archive films, while Electric Cinema offers blankets and beds that turn a night at the movies into something special. It’s a simple plan, but one of the most reliable winter lifts.

If you’re in the mood to make something, London’s creative studios are full of energy this time of year. Try pottery in Peckham, paint evenings in Belgravia or a clay workshop with friends. They’re low-pressure, social and a great way to break up long winter weeks.

For those who love art and design, the London Art Fair in January is a must. It brings together leading galleries, curated shows and contemporary work that always sparks inspiration.

Festivals & city moments

London’s winter calendar stays busy long after the holidays. January is one of the best months to explore.

If you’re in Canary Wharf, you’re minutes away from the Winter Lights Festival - an immersive, city-wide trail of light installations, digital art and night-time experiences. It transforms the neighbourhood into something otherworldly, and it’s completely free.

Film lovers should make space for the London Short Film Festival, one of the most exciting indie events of the year. Expect screenings across the city, Q&As, experimental work and evenings that feel distinctly, uniquely London.

As winter moves into February, the city celebrates Chinese New Year with full energy. Between the Chinatown festivities, Trafalgar Square performances and food stalls throughout the day, it’s one of London’s biggest cultural moments - and a great excuse to gather a group and make a day of it.

Music & nightlife

London’s music scene still thrives in winter. There’s nothing like stepping into a warm venue after being outside in the cold.

Jazz nights at iconic places like Ronnie Scott’s, Toulouse Lautrec or the Jazz Café set the tone for perfect winter evenings. 

For something with more energy, winter is still an ace season for late-night line-ups. Venues like Tobacco Dock, E1 and The Cause keep their calendars stacked through January and February - ideal for those who want to dance their way through the cold.

If you prefer something softer, Sofar Sounds hosts secret gigs across the city in living rooms, bookshops and hidden spaces. If you manage to secure tickets, you just know you’re in for a unique experience.

Sport & staying active

Keeping active can be tough in winter, but London makes it easier. Climbing gyms like VauxWall, Stronghold or The Castle are warm, social and full of energy. Rooftop yoga studios run winter sessions, and run clubs pick up pace once the Christmas rush is over.

ARK Wembley residents get an added perk: winter match season right on their doorstep. Whether you go for the football, the atmosphere or the community moment, Wembley in winter is an experience in itself.

Neighbourhoods worth exploring

Winter is the best time to enjoy some of London’s most loved neighbourhoods without the crowds. Columbia Road Flower Market still blooms and the local cafés and shops add to the cosy atmosphere.

Coal Drops Yard is another great winter spot. There are endless warm coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques to explore - it’s always a vibe around this area.

ARK Life in winter

At ARK, you’re surrounded by a community all year round. And it’s super easy to meet people as we host 50+ events every month. From craft nights and movie clubs to supper clubs, fitness sessions and weekend outings, you’ll always find something to be part of. You’ll always have a base to explore from and like-minded people to explore with. Interested in joining us? Click here to enquire