Struggling with inspiration for things to do on New Year’s Day? Here are 5 fun and easy things you can do with the family in south west London and Surrey while marking in the New Year.

Pictured above: Richmond Park

1

Glide on the ice

Missed your chance to go ice skating over Christmas? Never fear. You can take the family ice skating on New Year’s Day – try out Wimbledon Quarter’s Ice Rink, and there’s also ice skating at Hampton Court Palace and Glide at Battersea Power Station!

2 

Head to a light show

There are some magical light shows still running with tickets available, and if you’re at a loss for something to entertain the kids it’s a great one for the family to do together. Kew Gardens’ enchanting festive light trail is running until the 4th January, and there’s also Glow at RHS Wisley, Illuminate at Guildford Castle, and Neverland at Kenwood.

3 

Go on a winter walk

New Year’s Day is the perfect day to get the family out into the countryside for a contemplative winter walk. Wrap up warm and start off the new year by getting out and about in nature while spending some quality time with family. Richmond Park offers up some stunning winter vistas at this time of year, or you can alternatively head to Box Hill for some breath-taking Surrey views.

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4 

Grab lunch at a cosy pub

Don’t fancy cooking after a big New Year’s party? Take the family out for an elevated pub lunch – which can perhaps go hand-in-hand with your winter walk, should you choose to embark on one. The Lass O’ Richmond Hill is nestled just outside of Richmond Park and offers up some delicious grub with a focus on seasonal British ingredients. Alternatively head to the Dog & Fox in Wimbledon Village, or the Hand in Hand near to Wimbledon Common.

5 

Try out a new recipe

On the other hand, if you do fancy cooking and want to try out something new, we’ve got a fab selection of recipes you can try out. If you want to use up your Christmas leftovers, check out these recipes for a turkey Thai green curry, or panettone bread and butter pudding. We’ve also got a new brownies recipe from Kingston chef Sam Holland, or a yummy Chicken Biryani Mughal style.