London in December
 

We're thinking of visiting London mid-December, before Christmas. Is it awfully dark and cold then? What are "must sees" for the season? We'll probably want to take day-trips to Oxford, Stonehenge and Stratford-on-Avon. Suggestions?

I lived in London for about a year and it is pretty cold year round. It will be dark around 4pm in the afternoon, but you can still do plenty of sightseeing. <BR><BR>As far as must sees in London, I suggest House of Parliment &amp; Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Tower of London (allow 3 - 4 hours and be sure and see the crown jewels), see Harrods and Oxford Steet. See a Christmas &quot;pantomine&quot; like Jack in the Beanstalk or Cinderella. See a show in the West End. Most recently, I've seen Mamma Mia in the West End and it was very fun and clever. I also recommend The Lion King.<BR><BR>As for the day trips...I've been to Oxford and it was ok. Stonehenge is impressive and interesting, but out in the middle of nowhere and a bid of a distance from London. I recommend Stratford-on-Avon and the Cotswold villages. <BR><BR>Brighton makes for a nice day trip from London. From Victoria station, you can get a train that goes directly into Brighton. See the palace pier, the Lanes, and the Royal Pavalion. For a very nice traditional English pub, take a cab to The Badger's Watch in nearby Peacehaven. It is lovely!<BR><BR>Don't miss getting Fish &amp; Chips from a proper fish and chips shop. Note that you won't be able to find one in London.

Don't forget that if you drive anywhere at that time of year, you're going to have to set out early and you will almost inevitably be driving back in the dark, in a strange country, possibly in rain or sleet and on the other side of the road.<BR>If I were you, I'd stay in London and enjoy what's on offer there.<BR>I speak with feeling having visited my daughter in London last weekend and having been stuck for ages on the M52 and M11! It was getting dark by 4PM.

Topping

There are some wonderful Christmas concerts at Royal Albert Hall (www.royalalberthall.com) and Royal Festival Hall (http://www.sbc.org.uk/main/index.asp).