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familiesse.co.uk south east london

WINTER 2014ISSUE NO. 164ESTABLISHED 1996

SANTA’S GROTTOSIn and around

southeast London

WIN!Peter Pan

theatre tickets

WHAT’S ONChristmas fairs, pantos,

shows and skate rinks

FREE

Q.

A.

What do Families and Bizzy Bitz havein common?

See page 9for answer

online edition

with workingwebsite

links

2 families south east - november / december 2014 f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k

Free admission

10:00am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH

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A Date to Remember

15 – 24*, 29 – 31* December and 2 January10:00am – 4:30pm*Museum open 10:00am – 1:00pm

Get a head start for 2015 by adding your own designs of Museum exhibits to a calendar to take home. With so many fascinating displays to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. The calendar will include Museum events for the forthcoming year.

6th to 23rd December 2014

The GingerbreadChristmasat Leeds Castle

See wonderfully creative Gingerbread Decorations in the Castle this Christmas. Explore the festive Christmas Market to discover an array of seasonal gifts, toys, decorations and delicious hot food and drink. Ride on the carousel and Ferris wheel for spectacular views across the moat and look out for Real Reindeer stabled at the market. A full festive day out for everyone to enjoy.

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3november / december 2014 - families south east

LocalNewsemail your news to editor@familiesse.co.uk

Front cover: Front cover: Girlswear from Room SevenAW14 Collection, www.roomseven.com

Next Issue out: 9 January 2015, deadline 29 November

Families South East PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 020 8699 7240, www.familiesse.co.uk, editor@familiesse.co.uk

It’s interesting how at this time of year, the children are extra helpful and charming when they know that Santa might be watching... We’ve speaked apeek at his diary to see where he’ll be meeting and greeting well-behaved littleones; booked our panto tickets; and started pressing our noses against localshop windows to see which goodies are in store this year to put under theChristmas tree.Let the countdown begin!

Robina Cowan, editor

IN THIS ISSUE

3-4 Local News and ViewsJerico Road Christmas trees provide safe housing; pop upChristmas shopping; dancing for grown ups; and children’sactivities

5 Where’s Father Christmas?Find him in his wonderful grottos in and around southeastLondon, and book your ho, ho, ho!

6-7 Education NewsSouthwark Primary Free School expands; art and literature fillthe foyer at Dalmain Primary School; leadership skills for SHSgirls, and handmade poppies at Bromley High raise funds forthe Royal British Legion

8 The Book PageJustine Crow’s guide to the best reads for bookworms, andcracking Christmas specials

9 Xmas Gift GuideOur pick of wonderful goodies - and where to find them insoutheast London

10-14 What’s OnPantos, workshops, sales, Christmas fairs and more to fillyour diaries with festive fun

15 Children’s ActivitiesFun classes for children, now enrolling for January, and localbusiness contacts to make your life easier

Knock knock! Who’s there? Hannah Hannah who?Hannah partridge in a pear tree!

© Families South East. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisersnor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families South East is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families SouthWest. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

King’s Christmas trees help homelesspeopleEvery year the Jericho Road Project sells fresh Nordmann firs to raise funds for the vital work ofhelping rough sleepers come off the street and intosafe warm homes. Rough sleeping in Lewisham borough is on the increase, and the project provides4500 meals at a weekly drop-in and 31 low supportbed spaces for homeless people, 365 days of theyear.King’s Christmas trees are top quality freshly cut

Scottish grown Nordmann Fir, in sizes ranging from 4ft-8ft. Starting from £35, all orders will help roughsleepers get safe housing. Order online for collection from local pick-up points inDecember, or for a little extra you can book a home delivery, throughwww.kingschristmastrees.org.

Advent Windows 2014Advent Windows has become an annual Christmastradition in the streets of Greenwich since 2006,when the idea was dreamt up by Gill Moody, wife of the vicar of St Alfege Church. Shops, homes,schools and pubs are bending their imagination and artistry to produce the living Advent Calendar. A newly decorated window will be revealed every day from 1-24 December, using a variety of media including multimedia installations, models, paper artand paintings. You can enjoy this real life Advent calendar by strolling roundeach day as a window opens, or after Christmas to burn off those mince pies, as the windows will be on display until 2 January 2015.For this year’s map and more information, see www.adventwindows.com.

Anorak and Molly-MegThe shop that was formerly East Dulwich Deli has opened as a charming pop-up in the run-up to Christmas.Inspired by the great outdoors, Anorak

is a Dulwich-based, British brand whichbrings fun and whimsy to homewares andoutdoor lifestyle accessories. In the other half of the shop, Molly-Meg are offering their signature mix of carefully curated innovative designs for children that appeal to every age and blend well into the modern home. Together as a pop-up shop, the owners will also be offering exciting creative workshops for adults and children alike, so it’s wellworth a look.Anorak and Molly-Meg is now open at 15-17 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich

SE22 8EW. Pop in or see, www.anorakonline.co.uk and www.mollymeg.com.

Children in Need award for local autismcharitySouth East London charity MontessoriEducation for Autism (MEfA) has beenawarded £10,000 by Children in Needtowards their new Teenage Transitionsproject. The project, which will supportyoungsters aged 11-14 years as theymake the transition to secondaryschool, will be an after-school nurture group.Wendy Fidler, MEfA’s director said, “The new project is an extension of our

existing free-of-charge after-school nurture group for primary aged children withautism and other special educational needs. As the children reach the end oftheir primary schooling it is clear they need more support than most to negotiatethe transition to secondary school.”The charity aims to match-fund the Children in Need award by continuing

its successful ‘Me 4MEfA Campaign’: Schools are invited to join the campaignby raising £100 for the charity, joining those who have already signed up. To find out more, contact MEfA: 020 8305 2202 or 07710 433 994, www.montessorieducationforautism.com.

4 families south east - november / december 2014 f a m i l i e s s e . c o . u k

ACTING + SINGING + DANCE = PERFORMING ARTSBOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS TODAY!

0208 244 4873 www.freedomacademy.co.uk info@freedomacademy.co.uk South East LondonAges 3 yrs - 19 yrs

Friday Forest Hill

& Saturday

East Dulwich

Activities for children

Family Xmas magic showInternational Magician ofthe world-famous MagicCircle Simon Rosselli, willbe appearing - and disappearing - in a post-Christmas charity show,with all the proceeds splitbetween a local charityand the Destiny JuniorSchool in Uganda.

See live animals appear from thin air, beawed by the Head & Shrinking Illusion - and onelucky person to be sawn in half! Simon’s shows arealways filled with great audience participation, andall children will receive a FREE Bunny Copter to take home, plus have the chance to meet Fluffy theRabbit in the interval.

The show will run from 6-8pm on 28, 29 and 30December at Haslemere Hall in Thornton Heath.Tickets £7 for adults, £5 children and £20 for a family of four. Booking is recommended as ticketsare likely to sell out in advance. Order yours by calling Amigo’s Magic on 020 8480 8176 or online at www.amigosmagic.co.uk, where you can watch ataster video of the show, and find out about Amigo’sMagic parties.

Music workshop withFunky Monkey KeyboardClassesFunky Monkey Keyboard Classes return with their fun-filled ‘Jingle Bells’ music workshops. TheChristmas themed taster days are for 4-8 year oldbeginner musicians; giving you the chance to finishthat last minute Christmas shopping! 10am-2pm inHerne Hill on 22 December and Streatham on 23December. £40 per child, with sibling discountsavailable. For bookings and information, go towww.funkymonkey.info or call 0800 107 7949.

Award winning dramaschool comes to GreenwichThe Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 3-18year olds will be opening a branch in Greenwich inJanuary, taking place on Saturday mornings.

Students will follow a timetable of drama/ film,singing and dance, all led by industry professionals.

Current students have had the opportunity to secure high profile performing contracts on TV, filmand in the West End. However, most attend theschool to have fun and improve their confidence,self-esteem, life skills and aspirations. These skillsoften support their academic achievements.

The Greenwich branch is holding a Taster Day onSaturday 17 January. Visit www.annafiorentini.comfor more information, phone 020 7682 1403, or seethe ad on page 2.

ABC for beginners“Fuzzy’s Fun Phonics” are new classes in Dulwichfor 3-4 year-old pre-schoolers.

The classes teach the letters and phonic soundsof the alphabet through stories, games and play.The fun introduction to the alphabet takes place insmall groups to ensure each child benefits from individual attention. For information, call Tara on0790 3830 384 or see www.fuzzyandfriends.com.

Children and parents’ supportLambeth parents with young children have huge resources available to them, thanks to three busyOfsted registered, Sure Start Children’s Centres.Parent and baby sessions include storytime singalongs, zumbini, play and learn, and cooking workshops.

For health and parenting support, there are developmental checks, infant massage training, firstaid courses, confidence for work sessions, adviceon housing issues and benefits, breastfeeding andweaning advice, and childminder drop-ins. Manyactivities run on a free drop-in basis, others needpre-booking, and are available from Mondays to Fridays.

The centres are Rosendale Children’s Centre inWest Dulwich 020 8761 7411, Cherry Tree Children’sCentre in West Norwood 020 8761 3835, and LizAtkinson Children’s Centre in Brixton 020 75870914. For full details, click the ‘Children’s Centres’tab at www.rosendale.cc.

Dancing in the new yearSouth London Dance Studios areintroducing new dance classesfor adults, starting in January.

Ballet, tap and modern dancesounds like a great way to bumpup those fitness levels in the newyear. The studios are in Herne Hilland there are many children’s classes too. For information, call 020 7978 8624 or seewww.southlondondancestudios.co.uk.

Computer games are OK!Films and computer games‘boost children’s vocabulary’, according to recent researchfrom the team at Oxford University Press. Watching films such as Despicable Me and The Lego Movie, and playingcomputer games such as Minecraft can have a positive impact on children’s use of language, asthey start to use unfamiliar words following exposureto these films and games.

A study carried out by the Oxford University Press found that school children under the age of 13 regularly used little-known terms such as ‘ocelot’,‘spawn’ and ‘portal’ in their written work because ofthe influence of popular culture. The word ‘minion’from the movie Despicable Me was actually declared children’s word of the year! “Concernshave been voiced that the digital age is having anegative impact on children’s imaginations,” saidKate Nation, professor of experimental psychologyat Oxford University. “These stories show that children’s imaginations are very much alive and thatthey use a variety of influences in creative ways.”

Scritch, scratch!One in ten children have headlice at any one time,and it’s a real pest (see what we did there?)

Joking aside, the Arthropod Control Product TestCentre at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is conducting a study to look at a newhead lice treatment for children.

They are looking for volunteer 2-11 year-olds totake part in the study. If your child has head lice and

you’re interested in taking part, call theteam of nurses and scientists on 020 7927 2883 or emailheadlice@lshtm.ac.uk.

Meanwhile, if you comb throughRichard Jones and Justine Crow’s Little Book of Nits, you’ll find morethan you could possibly want toknow about head lice, including thelowdown on effective treatments.

5f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k november / december 2014 - families south east

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WHIPPERSNAPPERS’ WINTER WONDERLAND6-24 December 2014, The Park Keeper’s Lodge, DULWICH PARK, Dulwich Village SE21 7BQ, 020 8693 1682, www.whippersnapperschristmasshow.co.ukFather Christmas and his elves are returning to help Whippersnappers raisemoney to support their work at the Lodge delivering activities for childrenwith disabilities.The setting is a magical Gingerbread House, where guests are served

festive refreshments before entering the Winter Wonderland. Young visitorscan dress up to help elves in a toy workshop, visit Santa’s twinkly classroom to decorate gingerbread tree decorations, meet Starfrost the Christmas fairy, make a miniature Christmas stocking, and enjoy a Christmas sing-along. And of course, no visit would be complete withoutmeeting Santa himself in his grotto for some words of wisdom and a magical present to take home, before visiting the arts and crafts/ toy shopto collect their finished tree decorations and a framed sleigh photograph.Children’s tickets £18.50, adults £5 - book first.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND 21 November - 4 January 2015, HYDE PARK, London, 0844 858 6755,www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Set across 20 acres of historic parkland, Winter Wonderland has the UK’sbiggest outdoor ice rink, a giant observation wheel, funfair and thrill rides,Zippos Circus and Cirque Beserk, a Bavarian Village, traditional Christmasmarket and festive food and drink. Santa Land is a magical experience withrides, eateries and Santa himself! Visit Santa’s Toy Factory fun house whereSanta and his elves are making gifts ready for the big day. Open 10am-10pm daily, admission free. Skating and show tickets can be bought in advance.

CHRISTMAS AT CANARY WHARF 17 November - 24 December 2014, JUBILEE PLACE MALL, Canary Wharf E15 5NY, www.canarywharf.com Santa will be in Jubilee Place every weekend throughout December andfrom 14 December until Christmas Eve, listening to children’s Christmaswishes in his whimsical Grotto. Pre-booking is not required but it’s worth arriving early as queues may close early to ensure that everyone waitinggets to see Santa. Meanwhile the Christmas Market at Montgomery Square will be buzzing with stalls offering festive food and drink plus original handcrafts and unique gifts.

SANTA, HUSKIES AND REINDEER6+7 December, WWT LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE, Queen ElizabethWalk, Barnes SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4412, www.wwt.org.uk/londonLondon Wetland Centre has some handsome huskies ready and waiting totake children for a spin. The dogs are also available for photo opportunitiesbut if it’s not festive enough until you’ve seen the man himself, then head tothe northern pine forest to meet Santa in his cosy grotto. You can also meeta family of reindeer including a six month old baby, and discover moreabout these delightful animals from the north. £5 per child includes a goody bag.

STORYTELLING GROTTO13 + 21 December, CRYSTAL PALACE FOOD MARKET, Haynes LaneSE19 3AP, www.crystalpalacefoodmarket.co.ukSet in a warm Mongolian yurt, full of soft carpets and sparkly lights, booksand original artworks, the Man From Story Mountain will enchant young visitors with tales of elves, goblins and lots of snow, from the children’sbook GobDrob & Snowshine. Every child will receive a small gift from oneof Santa’s lady elves. 11am, 12, 1 and 2pm, £4 entry.

KEW GARDENS26 November - 3 January 2015, KEW GARDENS, Kew, Richmond TW9 3AB, 020 8332 5655, www.kew.org/christmas Visit Father Christmas in his magical Snowflake Grotto in the Princess ofWales Conservatory. £4 per child includes a gift. Also enjoy a festive fairground, glittering winter trail and the outdoor adventure playground.

FULHAM PALACE GROTTO30 November, 6+7 December, FULHAM PALACE, Bishops Avenue SW66EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org, www.eventbrite.co.ukFather Christmas will be in the beautifully decorated Tudor Great Hall, greeting whole families for a special one-on-one meeting with Father Christmas. See what the elves have been busy preparing at the gift wrapping station, take a peak at Father Christmas’s desk and see who has been included on the Naughty and Nice list. Children can also enjoyChristmas crafts while they wait. £10 per child, book first.

HAMLEYS22 November - 24 December 2014, HAMLEYS Toy Shop, 188-196 RegentStreet, London W1B 5BT, 0844 855 2424, www.hamleys.com Join in the magic this Christmas at Hamleys by having breakfast, brunch,lunch or high tea with Father Christmas. Enjoy a scrumptious feast, meetthe magical elves and hear all about Santa’s enchanting life in Lapland.Then when it’s time for Father Christmas to leave, his special guests will receive a small gift to take home. Suitable for children aged 4-11, book first.

VICTORIAN SANTA'S GROTTO6-23 December, MUSEUM OF LONDON, London Wall EC2Y 5HN, andMUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, West India Quay E14, 020 70019844, www.museumoflondon.org.ukMeet Santa in his secret grotto in festive 19th century Sailortown. Tell himyour Christmas wishes and receive a special gift. £7 book first.

WINTER WONDERLAND AT BLUEWATER27 November - 24 December 2014, Glow Events Centre at BLUEWATERShopping Centre, Greenhithe, Kent DA9 9ST, 020 8133 3153, www.bluewaterwinterwonderland.co.ukPlenty of family fun with a real ice rink, 40-metre snow slide, 4D cinema andstacks of traditional rides, amusements, games and stalls. Enter the IcePalace where an ice guard and palace eskimo will guide visitors through amagical tree-lined pathway to see Santa. The visit includes a plush toy andthe option to purchase a photo to take home. Tickets £6 with two freeadults per booking.

CHRISTMAS IN THE RAINFORESTNovember weekends from 15 November and 1- 24 December, RAINFOREST CAFE, 20 Shaftsbury Avenue W1D 7EU, 020 7434 3111, www.therainforestcafe.co.ukWho knew Father Christmas hung out in the rainforest - but there he is inhis snowy grotto. Children will receive a personalised invitation along with a warm welcome from his elves, before being ushered into the grotto wherethey’ll meet the man in person. The package includes a children’s twocourse meal and drink, a meeting with Father Christmas and a gift to takehome. £35 per child, pre-booking recommended.

SANTA’S SPECIAL STEAM TRAIN December weekends and 22-24 December 2014, TENTERDEN TOWNSTATION, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HE, 01580 765155,www.kesr.org.uk Climb aboard Kent and East Sussex Railway’s Santa Special for a returnjourney to Northiam Station. Look out for the pixies whose sacks are full oflovely presents. Every child up to the age of 16 will receive a gift to takehome. Book first.

FATHER CHRISTMAS AT IGHTHAM MOTE29+30 November, IGHTAM MOTE, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks,Kent TN15 0NT, 01732 810378, www.nationaltrust.org.ukCharacters from Ightham Mote’s past will visit the ground floor of thehouse, dressed for a Victorian and 1950s Christmas. Father Christmas willbe handing out little gifts to good children, and there will be local producerstalls to get those Christmas gifts, craft activities and a trail for children, withfestive music on Sunday. 11am-3pm.

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education news

6 families south east - november / december 2014 f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k

Southwark Primary Free School expanding New kids on the block Southwark Primary Free School, which opened its doorsin September 2012, is expanding with its new fit for purpose building set to openthis autumn. The school, a one-form entry with Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes, was

previously limited in how many local children it could accommodate, due to thesize of its temporary building at the Ledbury Hall in Pencraig Way, SE1.The new building, with six new classrooms and fantastic new facilities

including a new multi-use games area and all weather soft play, can cater formore children and provide an excellent learning environment for pupils while itspermanent site on Rotherhithe Road is completed.Southwark Primary Free School is a mixed state primary which will be open to

all pupils aged 4-11; currently serving Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 pupils. Theschool has already been praised by Ofsted as ‘good’ with outstanding elements,and has attracted one of the best primary headteachers in the country as Executive Head. To arrange a visit, call 020 7635 4256 or email southwarkfreeschool@gmail.com.

A Wonderland reception for Dalmain Primary SchoolVisitors to Dalmain Primary School in Brockley Rise find themselves in the company of a series of life-size sculptures of some of the best-known charactersfrom Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland. The reception area’s ‘wonderland’ make-over is thanks to a collaboration

between 180 pupils and art-in-education specialists Arty Party. Earlier this year,the children participated in the creation of a series of spectacular wicker, wireand papier-mâché sculptures inspired by famous John Tenniel and MervynPeake illustrations including the White Rabbit dressed as the court herald, theMad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat. “The children had drama-based sessions and an assembly focused on the

book, and spent class-time creating a variety of written and painted responsesto it which also became part of the display,” said Dalmain head teacher Elizabeth Booth. “Together with the art work, this represents a fantastic combination of approaches to the topic, ensuring it has maximum impact.” “We have worked with Arty Party before when they created a life-size model

of Anthony Browne’s Willy the Chimp,” added Elizabeth Booth. “He was so lovedthat the children would not allow it to be taken down when I first suggestedchanging the display. Having seen the new figures on show, I am sure they aredestined to become as popular. Besides, while Arty-Party were with us, theygave Willy a bit of restoration and a stronger base - so he is still available fordisplay elsewhere in the school.”For more information, see www.dalmain.lewisham.sch.uk and

www.artyparty.co.uk.

Local SchoolsSydenham High students learn aboutleadership“Face your fear and do it anyway” was the advice to Sydenham High sixth formers looking to the future, from round-the-world yachtswoman, Tracy Edwards MBE. She was speaking to them, along with several hundred of their of their peers, at the start of the annual Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) YoungLeaders’ Conference in Bath.Sydenham High’s joint head girls, Tallulah Boote-Bond and Alex

Terrieux-Taylor, soon had to test that advice and step out of their comfort zone as the delegates were divided into groups to tackle an Apprentice-style challenge. Each group had to design and market a charity fundraising event forone of the annual conference’s four nominated charities: The Children’s Society,Water Aid, The Eve Appeal and learning disabilities charity Hft. Using budgeting skills, market research from the public and their social media

knowledge, the groups submitted proposals and delivered presentations to theirpeers and a panel of judges. The results were impressive, highlighting imaginative talent and strong

teamwork.Kathryn Pullen, Headteacher at

Sydenham High said: “We want toequip our girls to go out into theworld prepared to confront thechallenges they will face as theywork their way up to leadership.The GDST Young Leaders’ Conference provides them withtangible life skills and a great insight into the world of work thatI’m sure they will remember foryears to come.”

Bromley High’s poppy projectA ‘Knit & Knatter’ club, andthe desire to mark the centenary of the First WorldWar was the catalyst for an installation in the foyer ofBromley High School.Head of Art & Design,

Becky Shepley gave everypupil in the Junior & Seniorschool - around 900 pupils -the challenge to make apoppy whether white or red,with anything from paper, toplastic to cloth...The installation is now

adorning the foyer of the Senior School, where hundreds of poppies have been pouring in on a daily basis. The task has led to the involvement of the whole school community and their extended families and friends.The poppies will be worn at Bromley High School’s remembrance service,

with donations from the sale of the poppies going to the Royal British Legion.Bromley High School Parent Mrs Jo Goddard explained: “The knitting club

has been a great way to bring together pupils across the year groups; staff, parents, grandparents and friends. It has reinvigorated a common interest inknitting and with the Poppy theme this has gained still more momentum. Thepoppy installation particularly is a powerful image, resonating with the girls asthey learn more about WW1”.Bromley High School GDST holds regular ‘taster’ days for ages 4+, 7+, 11+,

13+ and 16+. For dates and details, go to www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net/fse1.

7f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k november / december 2014 - families south east

Junior School Open Days 2014Tuesday 4 November 9.00 am - 10.45 am

Tuesday 2 December 9.00 am - 10.45 am

Register for Open Days at www.schs.gdst.net

Nursery and Junior School (3-11)

Wavertree Road, SW2 3SR

020 8674 6912 junior@schs.gdst.net

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Firing Girls’ Imagination Since 1883

TASTER EVENTSJunior Taster Sessions : 4th / 25th November 2014

Year 11 Taster Day: 20th November 2014Year 6 Taster Session: 15th January 2015

admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

Please register online on www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

For Girls 4 ‐ 18 yearsFees Assistance & Scholarships available

• One-to-One & Small groups

• Residential Courses in Spain & Argentina

• Corporate language Tuition

• Workshops: Vocabulary – Pronunciation

• Exam Preparation: A/AS - GCSE – ELE

www.livetolearnlanguages.com 020 8244 4811

LEARNSPANISH

Streatham & Clapham Junior School

a great place to meet other parents and carers a fun time for babies and toddlers (up to 4 years) an opportunity to socialise and share ideas

and support a stimulating and safe environment

stay and play while enjoying a coffee (or tea!)

Tots on Tuesday takes place at 10 am until 12 noon every Tuesday morning during term time.

Junior School SW2 3SR020 8674 6912 www.schs.gdst.net

TOTS ON TUESDAY at Streatham & Clapham Junior School

where every childdeserves the best

Southwark Primary Free School, a ‘good’ school with outstanding elements (Ofsted 2014) and aspirations to be excellent is expanding and isdelighted to be able to offer more places in its current Reception, Years 1 and 2 as well as for next September. The School, which opened in 2012, has:• high expectations and ambition • an enriched curriculum through trips/visits and specialist teaching • highly qualified leading practitioners• a learning environment helping all children fulfil their potential• strong links through our Executive Principal, the headteacher of an

outstanding London Academy; access to its specialist teaching and forest school

It practices Philosophy for Children, where children are encouraged to thinkcritically, caringly, creatively and collaboratively.

Interested? Call 020 7635 4256 or email southwarkfreeschool@gmail.com to arrange a visit

so much you can LIVEso much you can LEARN

with just one LANGUAGE

f am i l i e s s e . c o . u kf am i l i e s s e . c o . u kfamilies south east - november / december 20148

But also vignettes of campus life: “This is what I pay £9000 ayear for - Sam at 3am face down on the carpet in a purple leopardskin toga.” Who is Sam? The unlikely consequence ofher departure is that we have become much closer as a familyand when I announced that this year we were having an exclusive stay-at-home Christmas, just the five of us, the unanimous triumphant social media group arm-pump on theapp was decidedly weird. Though gratifying. THE COOKBOOK BOOK by Annahita Kamali & Florian Bohm -Phaidon rrp £35.00. Given that First Born will be back from adiet of Heinz Five Beanz and instant porridge, it is safe to assume that much of the yuletide holiday will revolve aroundthe subject of food, so let’s start with a homage to 125 cookerymanuals of worldwide significance, something completelylovely and useful and interesting and tasteful. And then it’s alldownhill from here. THE BREAKING BAD COOKBOOK by Chris Mitchell - Blakerrp £9.99. Told you. While I completely agree that it was, to coina phrase from across the pond, a totally dumb idea for Toys RUs to stock dolls based on the TV show, I can comfortably predict that under a trillion trees this year there’ll be a boxed setfeaturing a familiar naughty teacher in a yellow jump suit. Buthow about cooking up something other than crystal meth?From Los Pollos Hermanos fried chicken to Walter’s favouritebreakfasts, the recipes here are all inspired by the nation’sfavourite kitchen, ahem. And when you pass the biscuit barrelto grandma, imagine how thrilled she’ll be to bite into one ofthose Tighty Whitey cookies complete with icing sugar Y-fronts.DICTATORS’ DINNERS by Victoria Clark, Gilgamesh, rrp£14.95 is a pretty delightful conceit, investigating just whatsome of the twentieth century’s most despotic crackpots preferred to have served for their tea. It will also come in handyfor a few choice quotations should there be any bad children atthe festive table. HICKORY DAIQUIRI DOCK by Tim Federle - Perseus rrp£9.99. And while our tongues are still firmly in our cheeks, thefollow up to ‘Tequila Mockingbird’ continues the literary cocktailtheme with tempting tipples like Itsy Tipsy Spider - grandmaagain - and Three Wine’d Mice.HOW TO TEACH YOUR DOG TO DRIVE by Mike Haskins -Constable & Robinson rrp £6.99. I once got a royal telling offfrom a customer for stocking Andy Riley’s chucklesome ‘BunnySuicides’ cartoons: “I would have thought a proper bookshopsuch as yours would have more sense than to sell things full ofmindless cruelty.” No dogs were hurt during the making of thisstocking filler.HARRY POTTER: THE CREATURE VAULT by Jody Revenson - Titan rrp £24.99. They’ve read the novels, you’veforked out for the studio tour, their weekends are spent back-to-backing the DVDs in between selfie sessions by Platform 91⁄2 atKings Cross, what else can you give them?THE ROCKY HORROR TREASURY by Sal Piro & Larry Vizel -Running Press rrp 24.95. One for the musical theatre obsessedwitch in your life - don’t we all have one of those? - a celebration of things both camp and ghoulish, B movies andcomics, pansexual and alien, Brad and Janet, Riff Raff andFrank. Beside, with a jump to the left and a step to the right, theTime Warp is the perfect way for the whole family to work offthat pud.CHRISTMAS CAROLS by Andrew Gant - Profile rrp £9.99.Ah, what fond memories I have of my father’s choir-esque inflections as we hid behind him outside our neighbour’s atmidnight to Ding Dong Merrily on High with toothy DerekNimmo innocence, only to have Scary Margaret (for it was she)open an upstairs window and chuck a bucket of water down.Tales of choirboys, saints, monks and, er, drunks accompany twenty well-known inducers of an icy soaking. HOOK, LINE & SINGER by Cerys Matthews - Penguin rrp£12.99. The paperback edition by the pretender to Tom’s throne

as the Welsh National treasure, this is the antedote to the standard Christmas carol bash-along. From early mediaevalsongs inc the afore-parodied Three Blind Mice and the dreadedGreensleeves, to Oh my darling Clementine which was apparently a warning not to give women wine near water, incase they fell in.MY FIRST KEYBOARD BOOK by Sam Taplin - Usborne rrp£12.99. With sturdy keys and each note represented by acolour, come on, who wouldn’t be pleased to wake up to thison Christmas morning?SPACE SONG ROCKET RIDE by Sunny Scribens, David Sim& Mark Collins - Barefoot rrp £6.99. Or this? And the CD thatgoes with it features video animation and audio singalong. The25th Dec just gets better and better, eh!SNOW by Walter de la Mare, illustrated by Carolina Rabei -Faber rrp £6.99. Late of the parish of SE20, this once extremelyfamous poet brought the likes of Siegfried Sassoon to Penge.No really. Given a really pretty makeover which is as fresh asthe snow described in the poem, I wish I could the same couldbe said of his old neighbourhood.LITTLE ONES by Kari Suomalainen - Pikku Publishing rrp£12.99. Ahhh. A classic picture book for the grown-ups that depicts in deft charcoal strokes and water-colour with broadgummy smiles, squashy bare behinds and sunhats, the cheerychaos of those early days before the system steps in to tameus all.THE BEAR’S SEA ESCAPE by Benjamin Chaud - Chronicle rrp £11.99. It is snowing in the city and Papa Bearand Little Bear need somewhere to kip but somehow amongthe busy, busy thoroughfares and buildings, they are separated. After an adventure on a cruise ship - do keep up -they are re-united on a tropical beach. That beats winter on thestreets, eh? THE BIG PRINCESS by Taro Miura - Walker rrp £11.99. If youlike your fairy tales to have a smart contemporary edge, goJapanese. All the required elements are present including achildless king and queen, a beautiful but empty garden (nosubtext here then), a spell - or is it a curse? - followed by thediscovery of a tiny little princess. But she doesn’t stay diminutive for long.WHERE’S WALLY THE MAGNIFICENT MINI BOOK BOX byMartin Handford - Walker rrp £14.99. With the first five multipleadventures of our bespectacled striped gatecrasher shrunkdown to the size of a fag packet (well, nearly), you’ll be needingthe magnifying glass that comes with the set. It’s the gift thatkeeps on giving, if only you could find the little beggar.THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Richard Scarry - Random House rrp £11.99. Another classic and no festive season is worth its cellophane wrapped, gingham ribboned organic herb infused sea salt without it. A tradition in our housefor many years, the children never tired of poring over the exquisitely detailed antics of Busytown. And Mr Frumble is arole model for us all.HORRIBLE HISTORIES BIG FAT CHRISTMAS BOOK byTerry Deary - Scholastic rrp £12.99. “See why Christmas pudding used to be a crime,” it says here. Is pudding a verb?Also, test out some truly grim recipes, read some properspooky Christmas stories and learn how to get rid of those irritating Carol singers - I suspect a bucket of cold water is fartoo clean a punishment. Because he insists on seeing thefunny side to facts, this author has done more to further thecause of his subject than any bow-tied telly historian or meglomaniac education minister could ever hope to. WhenFirst Born went to her first lecture at uni only to discover it wasabout an epoque she had never studied before, where do youthink she did her research? I know, alarming eh. Mindyou, oneof the recent talks was entitled French and Frenchness 1789-1914, as recorded faithfully and circulated on WhatsAppfor the whole family to hoot with laughter at. Before we were uncomfortably reminded of that £9000 price tag once again.And you can’t get more Horrible Histories than that.

Happy Holidays!

The Bookseller Crow is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business.

Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or point your mouse at their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles.

When First Born finally went off to university this year, she set up a family WhatsAppaccount so that in her absence we, her beloved kith and kin, could all keep in touchvia a mere tap on our phones. This has meant not only some stupendously banal interactions such as her dad’s seminal round robin: “Has anyone seen the broccoli?”

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AFTelephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk www.booksellercrow.co.uk

9f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k november / december 2014 - families south east

We love...Le Toy Van’s play teaset is spotty, dotty andcute, from Gently Elephant in Brockley.

Sophie the Giraffe. France’s favourite babyteether is now chomped on by thousands of

tiny gums on our side of theChannel. Easy to grip, softand nobbly on sore gums witha squeak to stimulate hearing, from Wigwan Toys in West Dulwich.

For a warm glow in winter, Heico lamps comein a range of shapes and size, from Smash Bang Wallop inCrystal Palace.

Hippychick Wheelybug ride-ons gobackwards, forwards, round and round. Available fromGreenwich Baby.

Soft, handwoven recycled cottonrugs from Spain (where they’re

called ‘jarapas’). They’re washable and colourfulenough to brighten any dull corner or bedroom floor.Sometimes they’re made into cushions too. From Alhambra in Sydenham.

We’re looking forward to Grandpa helping to build aRobo Rover which will travel forwards, sense an obstacle, beep and change its route. So hopefully itwon’t run over Grandma’s slippered feet. One in arange of ‘build it kits’ from all goodGalt toy retailers.

The first stuffed Paddington Bearwas created by Jeremy Clarkson’s mother Shirley - did youknow that? This is one of many vintage bears that still have lots of love to give, from Granny’s Goodies in Sydenham.

After a day’s hard playing, tidy up in an instant into a big Lego storage box fromCissy Wears in Hither Green.

The Kissing Stags mugs from Anorakand Molly-Meg’s pop up shop are

spot-on for Christmas. Part of a collection that also includesface cloths, melanine bowls and plates, cosmetic bags,purses, cushions and bedding.

What do Families and BizzyBitz have in common?Both have families in mind! Tremendous developmental and educational benefits, no wonder it has won multiple awards. Create impressive model masterpieces with the

easy-to-follow instructions or let your imaginationrun free and build your own creations. The brightly coloured, versatile pieces give endless opportunities to experiment and explore a world of creative possibilities. Suitable for ages 3-11+

years, sets are £5 to £50, www.bizzy-bitz.com.

Labels4Kids have expanded their range furtherby adding to their extensive labels for clothes,shoes, swimbags and school kit. There are now items such as named mugs,

notebooks, arts and crafts products, badges andpocket mirrors for teachers or your family. Look forthe Personalised Gifts section atwww.labels4kids.com/fam.

2nd Impressions10 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath SE3,020 8852 6192

Art Stationers and Toyshop 31 Dulwich Village SE21, 020 8693 5938

Chock-A-Block Toys5 Nelson Road, Greenwich SE10, 020 8616 3308, www.chock-a-blocktoys.co.uk

Education Interactive10 Staplehurst Road, Hither GreenSE13, 020 8318 6380, www.themathszone.co.uk

Gently Elephant 169 Brockley Road SE4, 020 8692 2881, www.gentlyelephant.co.uk

Greenwich Baby52 Greenwich Church Street SE10,020 8858 6690, www.greenwichbaby.co.uk

Just Williams 105 Grove Vale, East Dulwich SE22,020 8299 3444, www.justwilliamstoys.com

Just Williams 226 High Street, Beckenham BR3,020 8650 5355, www.justwilliamstoys.com

Just Williams18 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill SE24,020 7733 9995, www.justwilliamstoys.com

Papagaio83 Church Road, Crystal Palace SE19,020 8653 1070, www.papagaioworld.com

Wigwam Toys & Gifts 109 Rosendale Road SE21, 020 8676 4815

Where to go

Beckenham Bookshop42 High Street, Beckenham BR3,020 8650 9744, www.beckenhambooks.com

Bookseller Crow on The Hill50 Westow Street, Crystal Palace SE19 020 8771 8831,www.booksellercrow.co.uk

Dulwich Books 6 Croxted Road, West Dulwich SE19, 020 8670 1920,www.dulwichbooks.co.uk

Kirkdale Bookshop272 Kirkdale, Sydenham SE26, 0208778 4701,www.kirkdalebookshop.com

Review131 Bellenden Road, Peckham SE15, 020 7639 7400, www.reviewbookshop.co.uk

Rye Books 45 Upland Road, East Dulwich SE22, 020 3591 1850, www.ryebooks.co.uk

Tales on Moon Lane 25 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill SE24, 020 7274 5759, www.talesonmoonlane.co.uk

Village Books1d Calton Avenue, Dulwich Village SE21, 020 8693 2808, www.facebook.com/villagebooksdulwich

Alexandra Nurseries56b Parish Lane, Penge SE20, 020 8778 4145, www.alexandranurseries.co.uk

Alhambra Home & Garden 148 Kirkdale, Sydenham SE26, 020 3417 6385, www.alhambrahome.co.uk

Anorak and Molly-Meg,15-17 Lordship Lane, East DulwichSE22, www.anorakonline.co.uk,www.mollymeg.com

Cissy Wears212a Hither Green Lane SE13, 020 8852 8687, www.cissywears.com

Doopo Doopo15 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill SE23,020 8693 2660,www.doopodoopo.co.uk

Dulwich Trader 9 Croxted Road, West Dulwich SE21, 020 8761 3457,www.rigbyandmac.com

Bunka 4 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill SE23,020 8291 4499

Jumping Bean 45 Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill SE23, 020 8314 4747, www.facebook.com/JumpingBean-Shop

Jumping Bean 47 High Street Beckenham BR3, 020 8650 5889,www.facebook.com/JumpingBean-Shop

Ottie and the Bea Blackheath Royal Standard SE3, 020 8465 5318,www.ottieandthebea.com

Smash Bang Wallop40 Westow Street, Crystal PalaceSE19, 020 8771 5517, www.smashbangwallop.co.uk

South of the River56 Westow Street, Crystal PalaceSE19 020 8653 1669,www.southoftheriver.co.uk

BOOKSHOPS

GREAT GIFTS

TOYSHOPS

Xmas Gift GuideHead to the high street and put a smile on the face of your friendly localshopkeeper this Christmas. Independent shops really come into theirown when you’re stuck for ideas by offering handmade goods and locally produced items, in-depth product knowledge and personalisedadvice, customer service, a friendly and enjoyable shopping experience -what more could we ask for!

10 families south east - november / december 2014 f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k

Sadler’s Wells presentsThe Birmingham Repertory Theatreproduction of

The live stage showbased on Raymond Briggs’ The SnowmanMusic and lyricsby Howard Blake

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Featuring

‘Walking in the Air’

26 Nov - 4 Jan

FAMILY TICKET ONLY £1004 tickets, must include at least 1 child

Transaction fee applies. Max £2.50

LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see

The Snowman and melt”The Times

By JM BarrieAdapted by Peter Glanville

Music by Martin Ward

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB

21 Nov - 14 Feb

Presented by arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Samuel French Limited

Polka Theatre presents

A swashbuckling adventurefor the whole family

Tickets: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

What’sOnFind even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

BLACKHEATH CHRISTMAS FAIR CRYSTAL PALACE FOOD MARKET L

BLACKHEATH CHRISTMAS FAIR23 November, BLACKHEATH HALLS, Lee Road SE13 9RQ, www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.ukLocal designers, artisans, food makers and independent traders with gather to offer their homeware, vintage goods,tweed cushions, Kenyan hand woven FairTrade baskets, toys, puzzles, craft kits, books, jewellery, leather goods,silks, cashmeres, ceramics and glassware, limited edition prints, organic babywear, Christmas cards, decorationsand much more. Gourmet producers are bringing a range of delicacies from flavoured alcohol, tea blends and handcrafted chocolates to homemade sauces, jams and chutneys.There will also be a badge-making table for children, a tombola and raffle. All proceeds raise money for Age

Exchange. 10.30am-4.30pm, admission £2 for adults, children free.

DIETRICH-BONHOEFFER CHURCH CHRISTMAS FAIR29 November, DEITRICH-BONHOFFER CHURCH, 50 Dacres Road, Forest Hill SE23 2NRShop for German foods and deli, frankfurters and cakes. Other stallholders will offer home made bags, Christmasdecorations, books vintage and eco-friendly accessories and more. There will be a play area for children and an Advent atmosphere is promised. 1-4pm.

ALLEYN’S HOLLY FAIR 20146 December, ALLEYN’S SCHOOL, Townley Road SE22 8SU, email alleynsparentsassociation@alleyns.org.ukNow in its tenth year, the fair promises more stalls than ever, offering a huge range of Christmas gifts including artisanchocolates, home decorations, luxury cashmere, fine foods, beauty products, limited edition prints, jewellery andmore. Father Christmas will be in his grotto, Popchoir will provide the soundtrack, and there will be refreshments onsale. 11am-4pm with all profits to charity.

HORNIMAN CHRISTMAS FAIR6+7 December, HORNIMAN MUSEUM and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23, 020 8699 1872,www.horniman.ac.ukA traditional Christmas Fair offering unique gifts for all the family, a Christmas trail, delicious festive treats and lotsmore. On the Sunday local choirs will provide festive singing. 10.30am-4.30pm.

SYDENHAM CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA13 December, in and around SYDENHAM SE26, www.see3.co.ukA SEE Sydeham Christmas market will include entertainment and festive offers on Venner and QueensthorpeSquares. From noon there will be free craft workshops to make Christmas lanterns on the ground floor of the Sydenham Centre next to the Post Office. The afternoon will end with Our Lady & St Philip Neri RC School brass band playing carols and the lighting of a Christmas tree in Queensthorpe Square.

Christmas Fairs

Theatre, Shows and Music

ROOM ON THE BROOM26 November - 11 January 2015, LYRIC THEATRE,Shaftsbury Avenue W1D 7ES, 0844 482 9674, www.nimaxtheatres.com Adapted by the award winning Tall Stories theatre company from the spellbinding picture book by JuliaDonaldson and Axel Scheffler, Room on the Broom isthe quintessential festive treat for the whole family toenjoy. This Olivier Award nominated production tells the

story of a friendly witch, her cat and three loveable animals who take to the skies on a broom and face afearsome dragon in this magical, musical adventure.With enchanting puppetry, original sing-a-long songsand scary fun, Room on the Broom is ideal for familieswith children aged three and up. Tickets from £14.50.

THE SNOWMAN26 November - 4 January 2015, PEACOCK THEATRE,Portugal Street WC2A 2HT, 0844 412 4322,www.sadlerswells.comWhen a young boy’s snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest foradventure, meeting penguins, reindeer and naturally,Father Christmas. Based on Raymond Brigg’s much-loved books, the stage show has also enthralledaudiences for many years. Ages 2+.

CHRISTMAS PUPPET SHOW23 November, DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, GalleryRoad, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254,www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.ukMasterful puppetry for children up to 11 years by DrewColby, Britain’s only professional hand-shadow puppeteer. Drew will use his magic hands to entranceyou with a Christmas variety show with lots of fun andgiggles. 10.30am and 1.30pm, £5 per person with fruitfor the children in the interval.

ALADDIN6 December, BLACKHEATH HALLS, Lee Road SE13 9RQ, 020 8463 0100, www.trinitylaban.ac.uk/blackheath-hallsThis colourful tale from the Arabian Nights is set in theMiddle East: a place of mystery, enchantment andstrange, mythical creatures. Large scale contemporaryShadow Puppet theatre tells of a poor street boy whofalls hopelessly in love with a Royal Princess. Whatmagic would he need just to see her again? Follow hiswild and dangerous adventures as he gets caught up inexcitement way beyond his control. Find out moreabout this inspirational and accessible art form after theshow. 3pm, ages 4+, tickets £7.

11f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k november / december 2014 - families south east

Imagination for the EverydayEarly years Drama

www.theatretots.com

Weekly classes in Lee, Blackheath and Hither Green

Schools, nurseries and parties too!

info@theatretots.com - 07801072776

Diary Dates for Grownups

Join one of our classes today! Ballet, Tap & Jazz,

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LEE GREEN OPEN STUDIOS

LEE GREEN OPEN STUDIOS15+16 and 22+23 November, in and around LEE SE12, www.leegreenopenstudios.comLee Green Open Studios has now grown into a much anticipated localarts event. Have a wander around the streets of Lee visiting artists’homes and studios for a chat, browse and the chance to purchaseprints, painting, textiles, photography, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery andcrafts direct from the artist. There’s a lot to see - take a pause for tea andcake! The organiser have put together a map and a suggested route tofollow - collect a stamp from at least 10 venues to enter a prize draw towin £100 worth of art. For details, see local posters and the event website.

CRYSTAL PALACE FOOD MARKETSaturdays, Haynes Lane SE19 3AP, www.crystalpalacefoodmarket.co.ukCrystal Palace Food Market brings together locally sourced meats, freshfish, fruit & veg, eggs, cheese, raw milk, artisan bread, cakes and hotfood into the heart of Crystal Palace, with regular events as well. Open10am-3pm every Saturday. All event listings are subject to change orcancellation: to avoid disappointment, check the market website beforehand.BOOK SWAP, 8 November. Run by local teen with all proceeds going to Upper Norwood Library.MWAH CIC, 22 November. Enjoy making a sweet jar to donate to a localfood bank for Christmas. 10.30am-2.30pm.HANDMADE PALACE, every Saturday. Christmas themed ceramic tilepainting for children, wheel throwing taster sessions for all ages - make abowl for collecting the following week. £2 children, £5 adults. 10am-3pm,book first 07951 102 668.WAGGLE & HUM, 13 December. Songs and rhymes with puppets for 0-2 year-olds at Upper Norwood Library. 10.30-11am.CHRISTMAS GROTTO, 21 December. See separate listings on page 5.CHRISTMAS CAROLS, 21 December, brought to you by Crystal PalaceYouth Orchestra. 2pm.

SPANISH LUNCHES WITH CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPSSaturdays and Sundays, IBERICA Restaurant, 12 Cabot Square E144QQ, 020 7636 8650, www.olekids.comEnjoy authentic tapas for a relaxing weekend lunch while your childrentake part in a free Spanish workshop with Olé Kids, filled with traditionalgames, books and stories.

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SNOW WHITE & THE SEVENDWARFS12-30 December, BROADWAY THEATRE, Catford Broadway SE6 4RU, 020 8690 0002,www.broadwaytheatre.org.ukBy huge popular demand, top comedian Richard Blackwood returns to play Muddles in this fast, funnyand spectacular new production of Snow White & TheSeven Dwarfs. Still the best value pantomime in London, the Broadway Theatre pantos are always goodfamily fun and a great way to enjoy the Christmas season. Tickets from £12.

THE WOLVES OFWILLOUGHBY CHASE17, 19, 20 +22 December, St BARNABAS HALL, Dulwich Village SE21 7BT, 07936 531 356, www.dulwichplayers.orgA thrilling and funny musical adaptation of Joan Aiken’sclassic children’s novel. Set in an alternative history ofEngland, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase tells thestory of two brave and determined girls as they fightagainst ferocious wolves, snowy wastelands and theirvery evil guardian, Miss Slighcarp and her equally evil side-kick, Mr Grimshaw. Dulwich Players’ amateurproduction is in support of Streetwise Opera. Ticketsfrom £5.

THERE WAS AN OLDWOMAN13 December - 4 January 2015, ROYAL FESTIVALHALL, Southbank Centre, 1 Belvedere Road SE1 8XX,0844 847 9944, www.southbankcentre.co.ukTaking the nursery rhyme There Was An Old WomanWho Lived in a Shoe as a jumping off point, this interactive, multisensory performance for children agedthree to five will take families on a promenade style journey around the space. Live music and singing willaccompany the young audience as they are immersedin the sights, scents and sounds of this new Oily Cartwonderland. Tickets £7 children, £14 adults.

BLACKHEATH HALLSCHRISTMAS CONCERT19 December, BLACKHEATH HALLS, Lee Road SE13 9RQ, 020 8463 0100, www.trinitylaban.ac.uk/blackheath-hallsBlackheath Halls community groups join together to present an exciting and uplifting concert to put you in themood for Christmas. The first half of the concert will be aperformance of Faure’s Requiem by Blackheath HallsChorus. After the interval Use Your Voice, Meantime JazzOrchestra, Blackheath Halls Chorus and local schoolgroups will perform carols and Christmas songs. A funconcert for all the family. 7.30pm, tickets £5-15.

LOCHABER CHILDREN’S TABLE SALE29 November, LOCHABER HALL, Manor Lane Terrace, Lee SE13 5QL,www.facebook.com/Lochabertablesale

The perfect chance to buy Christmas presents for your little ones at a muchcheaper price than the shops. There will also be lots of warm clothes, booksand toys for all ages, as well as baby paraphernalia such as high-chairs, sterilisers, travel cots, etc. 3-5pm.

TOY CUPBOARD SALE29 November, MEDHURST HALL, Sussex Road, West Wickham, Kent BR4 0JX, www.thetoycupboardlondon.co.uk

A sale of good quality used and new educational toys. The Toy Cupboard is a new small business to southeast London, offering educational toys to all childcare providers. Sale 3-5.30pm, admission 50p, all welcome.

THE SCUMMY MUMMIES SHOW29 November and 17 December, THE HOB, 7 Devonshire Road, Forest Hill SE23, www.scummymummies.com

Comedians Ellie Gibson and Helen Thorn dish the dirt on modern parenthood,covering all the big issues from culture and current affairs to flatulence andfish fingers. Every show features brand new sketches, songs and stand-up,plus special guest comedians such as Angela Barnes (Russell Howard’sGood News, The Now Show) and Holly Walsh (Mock the Week, 8 Out of 10Cats). Plus the audience gets to come clean by sharing their ScummyMummy Confessions. The Show is based on the hugely popular ScummyMummies Podcast, as seen in The Guardian, recommended by The Telegraph and featured on Radio 4. 8.30pm start, tickets £5.

HAVEN’T STOPPED DANCING YET: BIGCHRISTMAS BALL13 December, BLACKHEATH HALLS, Lee Road SE13 9RQ, 020 8318 9758,www.haventstoppeddancingyet.co.uk

A fabulous night of 70s and 80s soul, funk and disco for people who remember the tunes the first time round and still want to party and everyoneelse who loves to boogie. Dance line-ups throughout the night will get you intothe groove, and there are prizes for the best outfits. 7.30pm, £18 on the door,£15 in advance.

WOLVES OF WILLOUGHBY CHASE

12 families south east - november / december 2014 f a m i l i e s s e . c o . u k

MoreWhat’sOnFind even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

ROOM ON THE BROOM POTTED SHERLOCK ENB’S NUTCRACKER

POTTED SHERLOCK8 December - 11 January 2015, VAUDEVILLE THEATRE, 404 StrandWC2R 0NH, 0844 482 9675, www.pottedsherlock.comFor a strictly limited Christmas holiday run, double Best EntertainmentOlivier Award nominees Dan and Jeff star in the London premiere of theirnew show ‘Potted Sherlock’. The duo return with their greatest challengeyet: the entire works of one of the greatest detectives in literary history,Sherlock Holmes - all sixty stories retold in eighty elementary minutes!This delicious romp through the canon of Arthur Conan Doyle is fabulousfun for the whole family from ages 6+. Tickets £22.18, family tickets £20each.

ENB’S NUTCRACKER11 December - 4 January 2015, LONDON COLISEUM, St Martin’s LaneWC2N 4ES, 020 7845 9300, www.ballet.org.uk/whats-on/nutcracker-2014On an enchanted Christmas Eve, under the heavy boughs of the candlelit tree Clara battles with the Mouse King and falls in love with ahandsome stranger. As the air grows colder and snowflakes begin to fall,Clara and her valiant Nutcracker take a hot air balloon ride across thefrost-dusted London skyline to the glistening Land of Snow where heradventure really begins. In a world of Edwardian elegance, English National Ballet’s Nutcracker brings to life the popular Tchaikovsky scorefeaturing the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Waltz of the Flowers.Tickets from £14.

FAIRFIELD CROYDONFAIRFIELD, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG, 020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.ukSANTA CLAUS AND THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS JOURNEY, 28 November - 24 December. It’s Christmas Eve, and Santa Claus is flying high above the clouds delivering presents to all the good boys andgirls around the world. Hiding in the back are two naughty elves Charlieand Kara who have snuck on board for the ride... This brand new adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and magic promises to bean unforgettable experience, complete with snowflakes over the audience and the chance to meet Santa after the show. Ages 2+,tickets from £10.SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS, 5 December - 4 January2015. A fun-packed, family pantomime with comedy, singing, dancing,audience participation and stunning sets and costumes. The star-studded cast includes pop icon and West End superstar Gareth Gates and ‘Dame’ Quinn Patrick. Tickets from £17.

UNICORN THEATREUNICORN THEATRE, 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ, 020 7645 0560,www.unicorntheatre.comTHE NUTCRACKER AND THE MOUSE KING, 21 November - 4 January 2015. It’s Christmas Eve, 1805. Seven year-old Marie retrievesthe sad and broken Nutcracker from under the Christmas tree and promises to look after him. But on the stroke of midnight he comes alive,and after enlisting Marie’s help in his battle with the evil Mouse King, they journey together through strange and fantastical stories until they finally arrive in a secret land made of nothing but candy. Ages 8+, tickets from £15.THE FOURTH WISE MAN, 30 November - 4 January 2014. Everyonehas heard of the Three Wise Men, but have you heard of Artaban, thefourth? One day Artaban, the wisest of them all, spots a beautiful newstar in the sky. It’s the biggest and brightest star he has ever seen, andhe knows it will lead him to something special. A special baby in fact, sospecial that everything (and that means everything) must be perfect.Tickets from £10.SCRUNCH, 9 December - 4 January 2015. Ding, dong. The doorbellrings and there’s a present for baby, not to be opened until ChristmasDay. The paper’s exciting - scrunch it, rumple it, crumple it - what can itbe? An engaging and sensory show for babies aged 6 - 18 months (andtheir grown-ups). Tickets £10 for one adult and child.CANDYLAND SLUMBER PARTY, 19-20 December. Join the Unicorn fora festive sleepover this Christmas season! Watch a performance of TheNutcracker and The Mouse King, meet the actors and take part in awhole host of activities onstage before you bunk down on the set for thenight. A midnight snack and breakfast is included. Ages 8-12 years (no adults), £65, book first.GET UP AT THE WEEKEND. Join the Unicorn Play Club every Saturdayfrom midday. Take part in free activities in the foyer such as rocket building, cake decorating or even Olympic musical chairs.

STICK MAN8 November - 4 January 2015, LEICESTER SQUARE THEATRE, 6 Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX, 08448 733433, www.leicestersquaretheatre.com‘Stick Man lives in the family tree With his Stick Lady Love and their stickchildren three...’ But the world outside the family tree is a dangerousplace for Stick Man. A dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds anest with him and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? Passing through the seasons and culminating in a joyful Christmas celebration, Stick Man is adapted from the book by Julia Donaldson to delight all branches of the family tree! Tickets from £12.

SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW17 December - 5 January 2015, ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL, Southbank Centre, 1 Belvedere Road SE1 8XX, 0844 875 0073,www.slavasnowshow.co.ukImagine a joyous dream-like world, unlike anything you have seen before. A world in which a cobweb envelops the audience and one tinypiece of paper begins a heart-stopping blizzard of snow... Slava’s SnowShow is a multi-award winning combination of theatrical clowning andstunning visuals which has delighted audiences worldwide and now returns to London. Ages 8+, tickets from £20.

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS26 November - 17 January 2015, VAUDEVILLE THEATRE, 404 Strand WC2R 0NH, 020 7304 4000, www.roh.org.ukAlan Titchmarsh will make his West End debut starring as the narrator inthe Royal Opera House’s production of The Wind in the Willows. Basedon Kenneth Grahame’s timeless classic, the adventures of four woodland friends are retold through dance, song, music and puppetry.From a dusty old attic a wonderful tale unfolds; the peaceful riverbankworld is rocked by a speeding car, a racing train and criminal deedscooked up in the Wild Wood. Ages 5+, tickets from £15.

CINDERELLA12 +13 December, St GEORGE’S CHURCH HALL, Albemarle Road,Beckenham, box office 07510 111 224,www.stgeorgesbeckenham.co.uk/playersSt George’s Players bring a favourite pantomime to life. Tickets from £4.

FAMILY SHOWS AT THE ALBANYTHE ALBANY, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG, 020 8692 4446,www.thealbany.org.ukAll tickets £7 or £24 for a family unless otherwise stated.THE TAP DANCING MERMAID, 23 November. Gather round for theMoon’s magical story about a tippetty-top tap dancer who he has beenwatching at night. Marina Skippett creeps out of her house every night toshuffle and stomp on the boardwalk to the sounds of the sea. She can’ttap dance at home any more since her evil, tractor-sized Aunty bannedit! But then, one moonlit night, Marina meets a mysterious, watery boyswimming in the sea and her life is never the same again!THE MAGIC WORD, 29 November, www.lets-all-dance.co.uk.Following their sell-out shows last year, Let’s All Dance returns with another gorgeous, classical ballet. Once again, children will be enchanted by the magical dancers, stunning costumes and crystal clearstory-telling. With themes of kindness, good manners and friendship this is a heart-warming tale for all ages. the show runs at 45 minutes, including a post-show ‘meet the dancers’ session.DISCO KIDS: WINTER WONDERLAND, 30 November. DJ Jean Geniewill be spinning some festive favourites and CI2 Dance return to rockaround the Christmas tree with you and your little elves. Chill out incolouring corner, enjoy some festive games and play in the snow - brrr-illiant! Tickets £6, families £20.WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT, 10 December - 4 January. A familygo on an expedition of a lifetime - running down the grassy bank, wadingthrough the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into thedark forest, then peering into a cave... what will they find? Little AngelTheatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production. Tickets from £7.

THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH2-20 December, CANADA WATER CULTURE SPACE, Canada Water Library, 21 Surrey Quays Road, Rotherhithe SE16 7AR, 020 7525 2931,www.canadawaterculturespace.org.ukLong ago in ancient China a young girl called Ling loved to draw morethan anything else. One day she was given a Magic Paintbrush... In thiscolourful, exciting production of an old Chinese tale, the talented childrenof Theatre Peckham’s performing arts programme join with professionalactors to produce a marvellous, musical tale of magic, with very manysurprises for all the family! Come and find out how Ling was given themagic paintbrush, how she used it to help many people, and overcomethose who wanted to steal it. Ages 3+, tickets from £7.

PETER PAN21 November - 14 February 2015, POLKA THEATRE, 240 Broadway,Wimbledon SW19 1SB, 020 8543 4888, www.polkatheatre.comJM Barrie’s enchanting classic comes to life this winter in a stunningshow for the whole family. Get ready for one of the greatest children’sstories ever told, bursting with original songs, puppetry, swashbucklingfun and fairy dust. Magic soars to the sky as Peter Pan and Tinker Bellwhisk Wendy and her brothers off to Neverland! Join them in a fantasticalworld of pirates, mermaids and tick-tocking crocodiles where they musthelp The Lost Boys battle the villainous Captain Hook.WIN: We have a family ticket to be won for this wonderful production. For details, click on ‘competitions’ at www.familiesse.co.uk before the closing date, 24 November 2014.

Events and Attractions

FAMILY EVENTS AT THE HORNIMANHORNIMAN MUSEUM and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest HillSE23, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.ukMuseum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, general admission free, chargesapply for special exhibitions and the aquarium. The museum’s musicgallery and hands-on base, regular weekend and holiday drop-ins andworkshops allow family visitors to explore the collection through arts andcrafts, music, stories and hands-on sessions. All this within 16 acres ofbeautiful green space which has the oldest nature trail in London.REVISITING ROMANIA, until 6 September 2015. From beaded birdmotifs and embroidered metal threads to intricately carved woodencups, this exhibition showcases elaborately decorated textiles, costumesand artefacts to explore how Romanian folk art has been used to express social and political ideas in the village and on the national and international stage.ART MAKERS, 13 December. Create a pretty Romanian Christmas starto take home. 1.30pm and 2.45pm, tickets £3 per child, adults free.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND21 November - 4 January 2015, HYDE PARK, London W2 2UHwww.hydeparkwinterwonderland.comOne of London’s most spectacular Christmas destination returns with theUK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a magical ice kingdom, giant observationwheel, Zippos Circus, Santa Land, a Bavarian Village and the AngelsChristmas & Yuletide markets offering handcrafted gifts and crafts. Open 10am-10pm, admission free, charge for rides and shows.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM, 39 Wellington Street, Covent GardenWC2E 7BB, 020 7379 6433, www.ltmuseum.co.ukLet your children’s imaginations run wild as they are transported back intime at the historical and interactive London Transport Museum. Filledwith buses, trains, and taxis they can take the wheel, try their hand as atube conductor or bump around with the other passengers in the back,as they explore the vehicles of London’s past and present. Museumopen 10am-6pm Mondays to Thursdays and weekends, from 11am Fridays. Admission free for under 16s, £15 adults. Tickets are valid for 12 months’ unlimited admission.DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, 29 December - 2 January 2015.LTM is running Christmas-themed sessions during the holidays. Join in with family friendly parachute games and follow a snowflake on itsjourney from the sky to the streets of London. Ages 3-7, children free.Older children will enjoy getting hands-on with junk modelling to create a mini snow mobile to take home. Ages 4-12, children free. GOODBYE PICCADILLY, until 8 March 2015. Discover the untold storyof London’s Home Front during the First World War; how drivers tooktheir buses to the Front to support the war effort, how women advancedinto the transport workforce for the first time and how Londoners cameunder deadly attack from the air as total war came to the Capital.

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BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM, Threadneedle Street,London EC2R, 020 7601 5545,www.bankofengland.co.uk/museumThe Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bankof England from its foundation in 1694 to its role todayas the UK’s central bank. Examine intricately-designedbanknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar andsee the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank. Children’s activity sheets provide fun for younger visitors. Open 10am-5pm Mondays to Fridays, admission free.A DATE TO REMEMBER, 15-24, 29-31 December and2 January. Get a head start for 2015 by adding yourown designs of museum exhibits to a calendar to takehome. Banknotes, gold, coins and weapons were onceused to defend the Bank. With so many fascinating displays to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. The calendar will include museum events for the forthcoming year. Free. Museum open 10am-1pm December dates; 10am-4.30pm 2 January.

GINGERBREAD CHRISTMASAT LEEDS CASTLE6-23 December, LEEDS CASTLE, Maidstone, KentME17 1PL, 01622 765400, www.leeds-castle.co.ukThe magic of Christmas descends upon the entireLeeds Castle Estate this December to celebrate the traditions of the festive season with wonderful things to see and do for the whole family.FATHER CHRISTMAS VISITS, 6+7, 13+14 and 18-23 December. Meeting Father Christmas at LeedsCastle has become a much-loved tradition for children,parents and grandparents alike. Set in the ChristmasMarket, the Elves wait to welcome children before theyenter Father Christmas’ magical grotto for a chat and to receive a special gift. Tickets £12 per child which includes a quality gift.THE GINGERBREAD CASTLE, 6-23 December. Thecastle is teaming up with Biscuiteers, the celebratedhand-iced biscuit company to create an edible world ofbiscuity delights to decorate the Castle rooms for thefestive season. Marvel at a two metre long Dolls Houseinterpretation of Leeds Castle - all made entirely fromhand-iced gingerbread, and admire beautiful Christmastrees decorated with gingerbread decorations to matchthe history of each room.GINGERBREAD QUEST AND REAL REINDEER,6-23 December. Search for clues throughout the Woodland Walk, castle and adventure playgrounds tofind all the Henry VIII Biscuiteers Jolly Gingers. On theway around look out for the real reindeer staying atLeeds Castle until they are needed for more pressingmatters on Christmas Eve.CHRISTMAS MARKET, 6-23 December. Discover anarray of seasonal gift ideas, toys, decorations and delicious local food and drink produce. Enjoy a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine and a ride on thecarousel or Ferris wheel with spectacular views of thebeautiful moated Castle.

THE NATIONAL GALLERYTRAFALGAR SQUARE WC2N 5DN, 020 7747 2885,www.nationalgallery.org.uk KATIE’S PICTURE SHOW, 29 November. A drawingadventure celebrating 25 years of Katie’s Picture Show,Join the family workshop with author and illustratorJames Mayhew. 11am-1pm, drop-in, all ages. Story-telling at 2pm for ages 5-11 and book signing at 3pm.LIGHT UP THE NIGHT, 28-30 December. Be inspiredby the glittering gold you can find in the paintings andcreate a paper lantern to take home or add to a twinkling lamplight display. For all ages, 11am-1pm, 2-4pm.TALK AND PLAY, 30 December. Meet a costumedcharacter brought to life, for singing, talking and playinginspired by a Gallery painting. For ages 2-5.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM GEFFRYE MUSEUM OF THE HOME, 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA, 020 7739 9893, www.geffrye-museum.org.ukExplore the home from 1600 to the present day througha series of period living rooms and gardens which reflect changes in society, behaviour, style and taste.Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, from noonSundays, admission free. Special workshops andquizzes inspire creativity and provide amusement foraccompanied children on the first Saturday of eachmonth and during school holidays. Places allocated 30 minutes in advance of each workshop. 400 YEARS OF SEASONAL TRADITIONS,25 November - 4 January. The museum’s eleven periodliving rooms are transformed with authentic festive decorations, lighting, music and greenery to give visitors a magical glimpse into how Christmas has beencelebrated in English middle-class homes over the past400 years. Step back through the centuries and discover the origins and meanings of some of the richand vibrant traditions of Christmas past, from feasting,dancing and kissing under the mistletoe to playing parlour games, hanging up stockings, sending cards,decorating the tree and throwing cocktail parties.A GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS, 4 December. EnjoyChristmas Past by candlelight, listen to festive music,learn about seasonal entertainment, or bring children toa decoration-making workshop. Find an unusual gift inthe shop or enjoy a festive supper in the café. 5-8pm,free.MAGICAL MOMENTS, 6 December. Children canlearn how to create magic tricks to amaze their friendsjust like school boy Ernest Baker over 100 years ago.10.30am and 2pm.CHRISTMAS CAROLS, 6 December. Listen tofavourite Christmas carols through the ages with ‘TheToots’. 2pm and 3pm, free.FAREWELL TO CHRISTMAS, 6 January. Join in withthe Geffrye’s own traditional burning of the holly and theivy, with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and ataste of mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake. This eventtakes place in the garden, so wrap up warmly! 3.30-5pm, free.

LEEDS CASTLE

THE MOUSE KING SCRUNCH

14 families south east - november / december 2014 f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM GEFFRYE MUSEUM

MoreWhat’sOnFind even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

HISTORIC ALMSHOUSE TOURS, 11 and 25 November, 3, 9 and 17December. The restored historic almshouse has been fully restored to itsoriginal condition, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of London’s poorand elderly in former times. Tours are conducted by museum volunteersand take place as timed bookings.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200,www.museumofchildhood.org.ukThis gem of a museum is fascinating for families with young children.The collection includes dolls, dolls’ houses, puppets, teddy bears,games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography. Open10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. TOY STORIES, until 14 December. An exhibition of photographs byGabriele Galimberti explores the role and function of toys in the lives ofchildren around the world. The collection reflects the impact of the children’s backgrounds and families on their choice of toys and highlights the universality of play.

MUSEUM OF LONDON MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, West India Quay E14, 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands, and MUSEUM OF LONDON, London Wall EC2Y 5HN, 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.ukOpen daily 10am-6pm, admission free. Regular programmes of weekend and holiday events and workshops help visitors find out moreabout London’s history, covering events such as the Great Plague, Londoners’ jobs and occupations, and Roman life.A BEAR CALLED PADDINGTON, 14 November - 4 January 2015. TheMuseum of London is celebrating the small stowaway from Darkest Peruand his London adventures with a new exhibition, special events and activities. Visitors can see a life-size Paddington statue designed by BBC Sherlock’s leading man, Benedict Cumberbatch, as part of thePaddington Trail brought to the capital by VisitLondon.com, NSPCC andStudioCanal. Exhibition highlights include a signed first edition copy ofthe debut story ‘A Bear Called Paddington’ from 1958, props from the‘Paddington’ film, plus cut-outs and the original Paddington puppet fromthe 1970s TV animations. A family activity space where kids and theirparents can play together and experience Paddington’s most notoriouscapers will run alongside the exhibition. PADDINGTON’S PICNIC, 29 + 30 November. Paddington himself willtake over the museum for a very special event. Expect a large-scale family-friendly festival jam-packed with crafts, storytelling, and specialguests, as well as plenty of marmalade sandwiches. Ages 4+, 12-4pm,free.VICTORIAN SANTA’S GROTTO, 6-23 December. Meet Santa in a secret grotto on an atmospheric Victorian street. Tell him your Christmaswishes and receive a special gift. From £7 per child (includes gift) Photographs available at an additional cost.

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICHNational Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory andCutty Sark, Greenwich SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.rmg.co.ukRoyal Museums Greenwich holds the world’s largest maritime collection.It is housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime GreenwichWorld Heritage Site and incorporates the Royal Observatory Greenwich,the 17th-century Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark. The Museums works to illustrate for everyone the importance of the sea, ships, time and thestars and their relationship with people, and is also a major centre of education and research. Open 10am-5pm daily. General admission is free; some buildings, special exhibitions and events have an admission fee.

CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM IN HYDEPARK25 December, Hyde Park, London W2,www.serpentineswimmingclub.comWhile you are knee-deep in wrapping paper in front of a log fire, spare athought for the members of the Serpentine Swimming club who will bepreparing to swim their traditional 100-yard race for the Peter Pan cup.9am on the south bank of the lake. Spectators welcome.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICERINK30 October - 4 January 2015, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 5BD, 0844 847 1576, www.nhmskating.comLondon’s most spectacular, 950-square-metre ice rink is on the Museum’s east lawn, a setting made even more magical by a fairgroundcarousel and 76,000 twinkling fairy lights. If you don’t fancy a skate, youcan still enjoy the atmosphere with a hot chocolate, mulled wine or somefestive food from the Café Bar, with its balcony overlooking the rink. Adultfrom £12.65, child from £8.80.

ICE SKATE VAUXHALL21 November - 4 January 2015, VAUXHALL PLEASURE GARDENS, Kennington Lane SE11 5HY, 020 3780 8777,www.iceskatevauxhall.co.ukSet in the vibrant heart of south London, visitors to Ice Skate Vauxhallcan experience a full size 600sqm urban Ice Rink and London’s firstChristmas Tree Maze, made from Nordmann fir trees. Adding to the atmosphere will be street entertainers, urban skater trick teams, an extended street market of London’s top pop-up eateries including a fish& chip bus, plus shopping at the Artisan Craft Market, thrills on traditionalrides and much more. Tickets £10.95 adults, £8.95 per child.

EYESKATE AT THE LONDON EYE15 November - 4 January 2015, LONDON EYE, Westminster BridgeRoad SE1 7JB, www.londoneye.comReturning for its fifth winter, this year’s Eyeskate will again transform theSouth Bank attraction into an iconic open-air winter skating venue. In addition, guests can soak up the ‘Frostival’ atmosphere by booking aWinter Cocktail Experience or a multi-sensory Frosty Guided Experiencealongside the Thames.

ICE RINK CANARY WHARF1 November - 28 February 2015, CANARY WHARF, Canada Square E155NY, 08456 531 431 www.canarywharf.com Set amidst the towering skyline of Canary Wharf and the cosy confines ofCanada Square Park, Ice Rink Canary Wharf has London’s only skatepath, through fairy-lit trees around Canada Square Park’s iconic ‘BigBlue’ sculpture by British designer Ron Arad. A festive favourite, the rinkwill once again provide a breath-taking illuminated backdrop for CanaryWharf’s visitors to skate along to their favourite Christmas tunes amidstthe spectacular vista of twinkling lights and decorations. Perfect for afamily day out or to have a fun with friends. Tickets £9.50 children,£14.50 adults, £39.50 families. Skate aids £5.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE ICE RINK21 November - 4 January 2015, HAMPTON COURT PALACE, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU, www.thehamptoncourticerink.co.ukSkate with a beautiful backdrop of King Henry VIII's magnificent palace,on the banks of the River Thames. Tickets from £11.50 adults, £9 children. Visitors can also experience a Tudor Christmas from 27 December - 1 January.

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE11 November - 11 January 2015, SOMERSET HOUSE, Strand WC2R1LA, 0844 847 1520, www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rinkSkate in the beautiful splendour of Somerset House’s neoclassical courtyard. Everyone can brush up their skills at Skate School and youngchildren can take their first steps on the ice with Polar Cub Club. TheChristmas Arcade with Fortnum & Mason will host a series of specialevents for shoppers including food tastings, demonstrations and ‘skatewhile you wait’ shopping services. Tickets from £7.50.

CUTTY SARK CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698,www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysarkThe world famous 19th century tea clipper offers visitors four levels to explore. Take in the views from the main deck and steer at the ship’swheel, meet the crew who worked on board, explore the various cargoesfrom wool to whiskey, and see how tea was loaded on board through interactive displays, props, information boards and animations. Familyfriendly events run at weekends and during school holidays. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Sundays, admission £6.50 children, £12 adults,from £20 families. Bundled tickets are available with the other Royal Museum Greenwich attractions. TODDLER TAKEOVER, 21 November. Celebrate the ship’s birthdayand Kids in Museums Takeover Day with a fun-filled day of activities fortoddlers, babies and their grown ups.NANNIE THE WITCH, 16 + 29 November, 13, 20, 23 + 28 December.Dance, sing and set sail on an adventure with Nannie, Cutty Sark’s figurehead, as she shares amazing stories about the ship and how she got her name.

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JOCK ‘WHITE HAT’ WILLIS, 23 + 30 November, 7 + 14 December.Meet the man who owned the fastest sailing ship in the world, and discover the secrets of his success.“I SAW THREE SHIPS”, 6+7 December. Create a Christmas harbourscene with ships and a shimmery sea to turn into a card or hang athome.WOOLLY JUMPERS, 29-30 December. Boing and bounce a fluffysheep made with wool just like the stuff the Cutty Sark used to carry all the way from Australia.

15november / december 2014 - families south east

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Families South East PO Box 11591 , London SE26 6WBTel: 020 8699 7240 Email: info@familiesse.co.uk Contact: Robina Cowan

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Consultations in English & French in SE1 & W1 Leila Barnes: 020 8741 9700

leilabarnes37@gmail.com

16 families south east - november / december 2014 f am i l i e s s e . c o . u k

Families South EastTel: 020 8699 7240 Email: info@familiesse.co.uk Contact: Robina Cowan

MAGAZINE DESIGN: Lancasters 020 8658 9975

www.lancasters.co.uk

Printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.russellpress.com

Call your local Stagecoach:Dulwich 020 8949 4116Blackheath 020 8417 0010Beckenham 020 8541 0833Sydenham 020 7228 0981

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Spring

Termnow b

ooking

From the

creators of

Olivier Award

nominated

smash hit

PottedPotter

From the

creators of

Olivier Award

nominated

smash hit

Potted

Potter

Limited West End Christmas Season 8 December - 11 JanuaryVAUDEVILLE THEATRE 0844 412 4663

www.NimaxTheatres.com - www.PottedSherlock.com

‘Great Family Entertainment’British Theatre Guide