From the Field of Remembrance to ice skating: Five things to do in London this weekend

Best-selling author Zadie Smith makes her playwriting debut, transporting Chaucer’s The Wife of Bath to 21st Century north-west London.
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There are plenty of great activities on this weekend, from winter markets to incredible theatre.

On Sunday, the city will mark Remembrance Day with a series of events and commemorative services.

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For those in the mood for something lighter, there are plenty of winter-themed activities going on.

From London’s Jazz Festival to ice skating at Hampton Court Palace, here are five events happening in London this weekend November 12 to 14, we think you should check out.

Zadie Smith PIC: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ImagesZadie Smith PIC: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Zadie Smith PIC: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

The Field of Remembrance, Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, 20 DeansYard, SW1P 3PA Til November 21 Free Entry

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The field, organised by the Poppy Factory, is open to the public from 1pm and 4pm on Armistice Day, and 10am to 4pm from Friday, November 12 until Sunday, November 21.

Southbank Centre winter market

Queen’s Walk, Southbank Til December 24 Free Entry

For those of you hoping to get into the Christmas spirit early, you’ll be pleased to know Southbank’s Winter Markets opens this weekend.

With plenty of winter pop-up bars, street food stalls and opportunities to shop, the Thames-side markets are brimming with festive treats.

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Whether it’s a cheeky mulled wine, a bratwurst or a truffle burger you’re after, Southbank Winter Markets has it all.

Head on down to eat, drink and be merry.

Members of Chapel Royal Choirboys choir attempt to skate at the Hampton Court Ice Rink. Credit: Dan Kitwood/Getty ImagesMembers of Chapel Royal Choirboys choir attempt to skate at the Hampton Court Ice Rink. Credit: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images
Members of Chapel Royal Choirboys choir attempt to skate at the Hampton Court Ice Rink. Credit: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Ice skating at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Way, Molesey, East Molesey, KT8 9AU Til January 9 (Closed Christmas Day) Tickets Adults £16 - £19, Children £11.50 - £14, Family £46 - £52

Henry Vlll’s historic Thames-side Tudor palace opens its ice rink for another winter this weekend.

Located in front of the spectacular Hampton Court Palace, you can enjoy a daytime skate, followed by a visit to the palace, or soak in the ambience of an evening session, when the historic palace is bathed in multi-coloured lights.

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After your skate you can enjoy some hearty winter warming platters, indulgent sweet and savoury treats and a wide range of festive beverages.

EFG London Jazz Festival

Various Locations November 12 to 21 Tickets Various Prices

This weekend London’s Jazz Festival returns to live audiences with an electrifying line up, ranging from global stars, special collaborations and new commissions to finest and freshest music from the UK.

The 10-day event starts this Friday with renowned artists including Julian Lage, Richard Bona and Alfredo Rodriguez Band and Daniel Casimir performing over its first weekend at the capital’s jazziest establishments, including Cadogan Hall, Ronnie Scott’s and the Southbank Centre.

The Wife of Willesden by Zadie Smith

Kiln Theatre, 269 Kilburn High Rd, NW6 7JR Til January 15 Tickets £10 to £20

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Critically acclaimed, multi-award winning, best-selling author Zadie Smith makes her playwriting debut, transporting Chaucer’s The Wife of Bath to 21st century north-west London.

The Wife of Willesden is a play that celebrates the human knack for telling elaborate tales, especially about our own lives.

Director Indhu Rubasingham invites you to take your seat at the bar, order a pint or two, and listen to this bawdy, beautiful new comedy up close, and very, very personal.

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