While the weather may be unpredictable, and the city is no less bustling than at any other time of year, there’s one thing that stands out in January – the prices! Also, although this is generally a nationwide trend, when it comes to the big cities, the savings become more appealing.
So, pack up a few extra layers and a good pair of gloves and shoes, and ready yourself for a wintery visit to London.
Immerse yourself in entertainment
Most people know they should visit the many free-to-enter museums across the city, but January is an opportune time to also indulge in a little theatre. Between 1 January and 13 February, you can see an abundance of internationally-renowned plays at a significantly reduced cost.
By also looking out for discounts on hotels, such as the ideally located Dorsett Hotel, City of London, you could spend your evenings surrounded by music, entertainment and luxury.
Engage with unrivalled culture
Similarly, the annual London Art Fair takes place towards the end of the month (22 – 26 January), combining fine, contemporary and classic art – plus an abundance of photography exhibitions. Artists and experts from around the world showcase their work across galleries, museums and unique installations that you won’t see in the country at any other time.
Again, you’ll have plenty of flexibility in the time of day you choose to view the many exhibitions, allowing you to pack plenty of culture in during your stay.
Enjoy the silence
In-between bouts of high-street shopping, you may wish to enjoy unusual periods of silence – at London’s International Mime Festival. Celebrating the unique art of silent performance, the festival takes place from 8 January to 2 February at Soho Theatre and the Barbican.
With an abundance of other art and culture always on show over at the legendary performing arts centre on Silk Street, you could find yourself spending an entire day at the Barbican Centre alone (albeit, some of it in complete silence!).
Embrace the memories
If you’ve missed out on the New Year’s Day parade and the Twelfth Night Festival on 5 January, rest assured that there are still plenty of one-off events to enjoy over the month.
On the evening of 25 January, you’ll find plenty of traditional pubs laying on the haggis and whiskey for Burns Night – while, on 30 January, there’s a more sombre and quintessentially English event. At the Banqueting House, in Whitehall, the execution of Charles I, which took place in 1649, is commemorated with prayer, a series of services and the laying of wreaths.
Empty the shelves
Finally, in-between sessions of sightseeing and enjoying the multitude of culture on offer, you may want to hit the January sales. Even the most notable names in retail, including Harrods and Selfridges, step up their efforts to sell their stock in January – even at prices you won’t find during the Black Friday weekend in late November.
Ultimately, January allows you to pack more into your London visit without overspending. While tourists do constantly descend on the city throughout the year, the wintery chill does deter some – so, take advantage of the savings and opportunities and start planning your trip right now!