I don’t need any excuses to go to the South Bank, one of the buzziest parts of London. But it was lovely to receive a special invitation to the South Bank winter media reception, including a mini tour of Shrek’s Adventure 4D ride and cocktails on the London Eye!
Shrek’s Adventure is London’s newest walk and ride attraction, offering an immersive experience of the Shrek legend, with Dreamworks animation and theatrical elements.
After a welcome from a hyped up guide (he needs to stay off the Shrack), we met Princess Fiona and went on a virtual 4D flight over the Thames. Shrek’s Adventure was entertaining and I’m sure the boys would enjoy a full tour.
We were led through to a reception room where David Beckham stood waiting. I found him quite stiff. I mean, he wouldn’t even lean down so I could get a good selfie!
It was time to climb into our private cabin for a night flight on the London Eye. Marvelling at the city glittering below us, I had that warm, buzzy sensation I get every time I come to the South Bank. I love this city.
I had two yummy winter cocktails — Merry Stockings (dark rum, elf-made winter cola and rose mixed with aromatic bitters) and Punsch & Ruby (mulled apple and spiced port punch with bubbly). The ride gave us a chance to mingle with fun guests like Caroline from South Bank London, Kiran from Curious Mum and Vito from Italian Kingdom. It was almost like having a party in my own penthouse in the sky. Cheers!
From the Eye you can see some of the cool Christmas attractions at South Bank, like the Winter Market chalets and BUMP rollerskating rink. Back at ground level, the BUMP DJ was spinning hot tunes as the skaters got their whirl on.
Wandering around, I found myself drifting towards the food stalls. The chicken tikka with basmati rice and lentil daal from Gupta’s Bombay Street Food was rich, fragrant and filling. I only noticed afterwards that actress/national treasure was queueing right in front of me. It was too late to pap her, so here’s a picture of my dinner instead!
Few places in London will make you feel more Christmassy than the South Bank and if you’re still feeling a little bah humbug, why not try one of these activities:
11 Fabulously Festive Things to Do at South Bank Winter Festival
1. Soar over the capital on the London Eye
2. Glide under the stars at Eyeskate
3. Board a festive City Cruise around the Thames
4. Tour Shrek’s Christmas Adventure
5. Discover Wonderland at National Theatre (music by Damian Albarn)
6. Get your skates on at BUMP Rollerdisco
7. Cosy up in the Rekorderlig Cider Lounge
8. Shop for treasures and treats at Southbank Winter Market
9. See We Are the Monsters dance show for ages 4-9
10. Ride from road to river with London Duck Tours
11. Experience a white Christmas indoors with Slava’s Snow Show
Watch the South Bank Winter Festival video for more inspiration!
Visit www.southbanklondon.com
