‘Tis the season to have Bollinger as Winter Wonderland returned to Hyde Park for some festive fun and a merry old drunk Christmas. I took a stroll down to the village and I must say, they have really outdone themselves with the glistening lights, unlimited sweet stalls and floor to ceiling Christmas trees that could turn any Scrooge into a happy, hyper child.
First stop in the Christmas labyrinth was Santa’s Sweet Factory. A store packed with all your childhood sweeties that could raise any parent’s sugar level through the roof!
I was tempted to re-enact Bruce Bogtrotter with the chocolate cake but as I’m on a diet and trying to reclaim my gym body, I was a well-behaved lad and let my friend scoff on my behalf!
Oh fudge! I might have told a porky and sampled one of every flavour (slaps wrist) but it was definitely worth every penny.
My friend is shit scared of rides so unfortunately we didn’t get to check out the breath-taking views atop the ferris wheel or hop on the ‘rattlesnake’ roller coaster. I highly advise you to board the wheel even if you’re petrified of heights. This is a great way of beating that phobia while enjoying the best scenic views London has to offer.
It was that time of the evening for some alcohol consumption to warm the old cockles. We paid a visit to Mr Fogg’s – A decadent and sophisticated grotto that hosts a fantastic festive vibe.
It was a Friday night so we were ready to dive into the deep end and try some of Fogg’s exclusive cocktails. I stepped out of my Vodka comfort zone and tasted the ‘Phileas Only Negroni’, which combines Tanqueray Gin, Campari, Regal Rogue Rose and Vermouth. The bartender served it in a small plastic cup (classy) and I was wondering where the rest of it had gone. It wasn’t until I took my first sip I found my eyes watering with the taste and aroma of Tanqueray Gin. I definitely started to feel a tingle in my fingers and toes after that sweet and sour beverage.
They have a good variety of cocktails and mocktails for all guys that are driving or having a quiet one as well as beers and ciders for all you butch daddies and laddies.
After leaving the grotto feeling slightly tipsy, we toddled off to the waffle stool to line our stomachs. Me and my babe ended up sharing a large chocolate-coated waffle (far left) and a pack of churro sticks smothered in chocolate sauce. We had a major sugar overload but it was well worth it. There were churro stands left, right and centre so you can only feel obliged to get stuck in and sample some of those gorgeous sugary treats!
We finished up the evening by playing some of the good-old fashioned fairground games. The ‘Darts Challenge’ involved throwing darts through metal hoops to win some amaze-ball prizes. Every year, I aim to win a penguin because I think they are the most amazing animals on the planet, and to my surprise, I only gone and won another one! I’m still trying to think of a name for him and would love anyone to leave a comment with any suggestions for this cute, little critter.
Overall, it was a fabulous and memorable evening that made me realise Christmas is actually here again. Whether you have been naughty or nice this year, I advise all you guys to put this on your list of festive fun events to attend in London. With mulled wine and food stalls in every corner and tents playing great tunes, this is the perfect place to kick-start your Christmas antics!
On a gay note... 