The ultimate Christmas checklist

The Grade II*-listed building, with its iconic chimneys that reach into the London skyline, reopened in October 2022 following a painstaking restoration. Only a quick hop from the West End and the City, Battersea Power Station has its own dedicated underground station. At Christmas, it comes into its own as a centre for entertainment, dining, culture, family and retail. There’s more than just Christmas shopping (although there’s plenty of that on offer): you can skate at London’s only riverside ice rink, take a trip up one of the chimneys in Lift 109 for breathtaking 360° views of the capital – and even meet Santa himself.

Skating splendour

Glide on the ice, circling a magical 30ft Christmas tree, against the backdrop of the Thames – it’s so quintessentially festive, it’s like a scene from a Richard Curtis film. Boots presents Glide at Battersea Power Station features three interconnecting rinks on which to whirl or twirl (penguin skate aids are available for little ones). Spectators and post-skaters can refresh themselves and enjoy the view at The Glass House or amuse themselves on vintage funfair rides.

Festive food and fizz

No festive day out is complete without a reviving culinary pit stop (or two). Battersea Power Station has more than 50 restaurants, bars and coffee shops, so there’s a cuisine to suit every craving. From award-winning New York cult favourite Blank Street for coffee and pastries, to fine seafood dining from the Wright Brothers, and modern, pan-Indian at Cinnamon Kitchen. Crack open the bubbly with friends at Searcys Champagne Bar, or try a limited-edition festive tipple at immersive cocktail bar Control Room B. During the Christmas season, look out for food and drink pop-ups across the whole destination.

Santa-approved shopping

With a choice of 150-plus British and international brands, Santa can check off everyone on his list, whether that’s the latest tech from Apple, the hottest trainers from Nike, beauty products to please the pickiest teens from Space NK, or reading material for everyone from independent Battersea Bookshop. Doubtless, Santa already has the Curated Makers Market in his diary (9-22 December). And he wouldn’t dream of missing LBTY., a fragrance pop-up of eight scents created by the acclaimed perfumers at Liberty. Liberty at the Power Station? It’s a meeting of icons.

Film fan cheer

Nostalgic for your favourite films? How about A Muppet Christmas Carol? Or are you a fan of a good old-fashioned It’s a Wonderful Life? Whatever festive filmic fare your heart desires, it’s here. Head to The Cinema in the Power Station for a classic cinematic state-of-the-art experience, or opt for The Cinema in The Arches for boutique and intimate motion picture magic.

Family fun

Nurture kids’ career aspirations by booking nascent little helpers into Santa’s School for Elves. They’ll learn the tricks of the trade and be rewarded by an audience with Father Christmas himself. If this hasn’t sent them into a state of blissful delirium, head to the world’s first interactive Transformers and Peppa Pig stores. Nothing says ‘joy’ like jumping into muddy puddles. Adults aren’t left out, and can embrace the spirit of a creative Christmas and book into a craft session, from candle painting to Christmas calligraphy.

A ‘just for you’ treat

Book into the luxurious art’otel London Battersea Power Station for the ultimate indulgent treat. The 164-room hotel was designed by interior designer Jaime Hayon, and every room features his signature art. Take a swim with a view in the heated rooftop infinity pool, then watch the sunset, cocktail in hand, at the JOIA Rooftop Bar. Michelin-starred chef Henrique Sá Pessoa is at the helm of JOIA, <the> skyline destination restaurant – a feast for all the senses, with its panoramic sights over the twinkling lights of the city and the Power Station’s legendary chimneys.