12 family-friendly ways to usher in 2012 in style... HOT SPOT 1. Whether you plan to brave or escape the fireworks at midnight, the South Bank Centre's Winter Festival offers kids' shows (White, Slava's Snowshow), outdoor market, Winter Garden Grotto, carousel

We've had oodles of family fun around London this year but one of the most exciting things we did was riding a speedboat along the Thames. It wasn't just thrilling, it was thrillaxing. We were invited on the Thames RIB Experience by

The circus comes to Greenwich, there's a barn dance near Regent's Park and Christmas puddings are on the run in Covent Garden. Another swinging weekend for London kids and families! Fri-Sun: Greenwich Circus Festival, Hangar Arts Trust, unit 7a, Harrington Way,

If the season of jolly brings out the Scrooge in you, then consider this a warning: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is like Christmas cheer on steroids. There are life-size Santas up to all sorts of tricks around the park and the

We've handpicked some cracking activities and events for London kids and families this Christmas. SIGHTS & SCENES LEGO Christmas Tree (pic) at St. Pancras Station, NW1 Built over 2 months using 600,000 bricks and decorated with LEGO baubles made by local school

This week's highlights include drawing duels in South Kensington, line dancing in Bethnal Green, a loveable alien flick in Bayswater and to get you in the seasonal spirit, the reindeer have arrived at London Zoo! Look out for our bumper guide

Thrillax? Just do it. Babes about Town experienced serious thrillaxation last week bombing up the Thames on a speed boat. Yeah baby. The Thames RIB Experience takes you on a part leisurely, part adrenaline-packed tour (with wisecracking guide) from

Big bangs aren't much fun for little people, but you can still enjoy Guy Fawkes at a craft workshop or toddler-friendly fireworks display. Here's our pick of where to celebrate a family Bonfire Night with your mini firecrackers. GUY FAWKES CRAFTS 1.