Whether you’re a music fan, a last-minute shopper, a film fanatic or if you’d like to wrap up warm and do something fun with the family, we’ve got something for everyone with our guide to Christmas Eve in south west London and Surrey.

See a Pantomime

Head down to one of south west London and Surrey’s theatres before panto beauties and baddies alike take a few well-earned days off. See Cinderella’s happy ending at the New Wimbledon Theatre and Fairfield Halls, or witness hilarious performances in the Richmond Theatre’s adaptation of Snow White.

Looking for more panto inspiration? See our comprehensive guide here.

Go for a winter walk

Make room for the next few days of over-indulgence with a walk through the fresh, crisp air in one of the areas beautiful parks or commons. Stroll through the Wimbledon and Putney commons towards the village’s boutique shops, or admire the majesty of Richmond Park’s deer as they rest in the frosty grass.

Go for a festive tipple

It’s an internationally known fact that us Brits enjoy a Christmas Eve tipple. In case you needed an excuse to sample some festive flavours, many bars have specials on to tempt you into debauchery. Wimbledon’s Bar & Block will be serving their Mistletoe Martini, a delicious concoction including Absolut Vanilla, Chambord and prosecco.

Enjoy some local music

There are a number of pubs and bars gearing up to get revellers in the party spirit on Christmas Eve with live bands and music events. Epsom’s lava lounge will have a professional saxist on hand to create some ambience for those looking for something slightly more musically relaxed.

Get your skates on

London’s ice rinks are open and at their busiest on Christmas Eve as families enjoy a winter’s evening out. Head to Hampton Court and skate in the shadow of the iconic Tudor palace, or watch the children glide about and avoid the tumbles yourself as you warm up with a hot drink and play spectator.

London is full of ice-skating options; see our list here for your nearest go-to.

See a festive flick

Cinemas are sure to be packed with a number of great new releases this year. Grab a plush reclining seat at the newly-renovated Fulham Picturehouse for a screening of the star-studded Cats, or book into the final ever Star Wars movie at Esher’s Everyman Cinema.

Do some last minute shopping

We’re by no means advocating festive disorganisation – but there will undoubtedly be many who have little choice but to leave the shopping until Christmas Eve. Rest assured as Wimbledon’s Centre Court’s doors are open until 4pm, Elys of Wimbledon 6pm, Kingston’s Bentall Centre 5pm and the Putney Exchange until 6pm – just in time to wrap up your haul and head for that Christmas cocktail!

Visit a Christmas Market

The markets are open for those in need of a few last-minute stocking fillers. Head to Kingston’s Ancient Market Place to peruse their wooden cabins selling their wares, before sipping on a mulled wine as the family toasts giant marshmallows on the fire pit.

Fancy a last minute mini-break? The UK is full of fab markets to visit – see our round-up here.