Ditch the Layers: Why 2026 New Builds are Killing the "Woolly Hat" WFH Look
If your WFH uniform currently involves a puffer jacket and fingerless gloves, you’re likely dreading the next energy app notification. We’ve all been there trying to type while shivering. But 2026’s new builds are flipping the script. Engineered to the latest Future Homes Standard, these properties are designed to trap every watt of warmth, keeping your home cozy and your 'bill shock' a thing of the past.
We’ve all felt it lately. That sharp intake of breath when the energy bill lands in your inbox and feels more like a mortgage statement.
Whether you’re living in a Victorian terrace, a charming cottage or a ‘40s semi, the sting of modern energy costs is a universal experience.
Unless you live in a new build, that is.
Because a new build isn't just a fresh start. In reality, they’re built for energy preservation and efficiency down to their very bones - like a thermal blanket for your finances.
From high-spec insulation and air-source heat pumps to solar panels and EV chargers, these homes save you serious money on energy bills every month.
Let’s see exactly how much of a difference that makes compared to an older home, with the latest cold, hard facts from the Home Builders Federation and Octopus Energy.
New builds save you over £420 every year
The most immediate energy-related benefit of a new build is the savings in your monthly bills.
On average, new-build homes are 21% cheaper to run than older properties because they’re far more energy efficient.
New build homeowners spend an average of £1,574 a year on energy, compared with £1,995 for those in older homes - a saving of £421.
If you’re moving from a property with an F or G EPC rating, you’ll feel even more of a saving. A new build is £618 a year cheaper to run.
You pay a 27% energy premium in older homes
Living in an older home effectively means paying a 27% premium just to keep the rooms warm.
People living in typical older homes spent an average of 27% more on overall energy costs last year compared to new build owners.
For those in F and G rated homes, that figure jumps to 39%.
We all want to do our bit for the planet. A new build cuts your household carbon emissions by up to 74% every year compared to the least efficient older homes.
Virtually all new builds have an A or B rating, emitting around 2,179kg of carbon annually.
On the other hand, a typical older home (EPC D) produces 3,266kg (50% more). F or G rated homes produce 3,787kg, which is 74% more than a new build.
The expensive alternative: Retrofitting an older home to modern standards
Your home is your biggest asset, and energy efficiency is now a major driver of market value.
Research by Octopus Energy found that heat pumps, solar PV and EV charging points can add a 6% premium to a home's market value.
But retrofitting comes at a cost.
Upgrading an older home to match the energy efficiency of a modern new build is a massive undertaking, costing between £23,100 and £83,000.
Energy efficiency isn’t the only benefit
If the lower bills haven’t already convinced you to pack your bags, there’s more to a new build than just a friendly relationship with your smart meter.
Choosing new comes with a few major perks that make the moving process - and life afterwards - a lot less stressful.
Exclusive buying schemes: One of the biggest wins is the leg-up to actually get through the door. From Own New Rate Reducer to Shared Ownership, there are a range of new-build schemes that make the maths of buying a home work in your favour.
Long-term warranties: Normally, a leaky roof or a temperamental boiler is your week (and savings) ruined. But most new builds come with a 10-year warranty, which is essentially peace of mind in a contract.
The blank canvas and personalisation: You don't have to spend your first 6 months remedying somebody else’s ‘creative’ DIY choices. You get a fresh, neutral space from day one and many developers let you pick your own kitchen units, tiling, flooring and more.
Key takeaways
- New builds are 21% cheaper to run than older homes, putting an extra £421 a year back in your pocket
- You can slash your household emissions by up to 74% (without having to recycle your own bathwater or live by candlelight)
- High-tech features like solar panels and heat pumps can add 6% to your home’s value - but the total cost of retrofitting an older home to modern standards costs anywhere from £23,100 to £83,000
Things to do in London February 2026
Guide to the best events, festivals, workshops, exhibitions and things to do throughout February 2026 in London.
January has a habit of overstaying its welcome, testing patience with its rigid routines and post-holiday restraint. By contrast, February arrives with renewed momentum, signalling a return to normality—and a far more active social calendar—once the first payday of the year is safely behind us.
Despite being the shortest month, February carries considerable weight in London’s annual calendar. Valentine’s Day, London Fashion Week and LGBTQ+ History Month all converge within a tight four-week window, while the arrival of yet another half-term brings a fresh wave of family-friendly events across the capital, many of them free to attend.
Culturally, the city begins to reawaken. After a subdued start to the year, London’s art and film scenes regain pace with a series of upcoming film festivals and high-profile exhibitions. Major institutions lead the charge, with new shows from Tracey Emin at Tate Modern and Rose Wylie at the Royal Academy drawing significant attention.
Sport and wellbeing also feature prominently. From the Six Nations and the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup to Kew Gardens’ annual Orchid Festival and the debut of King’s Cross’s Equanimity Festival, there is no shortage of options for those seeking movement, spectacle, or a reset of mind and body.
In short, February offers a strategic opportunity to re-engage with the city. Whether your focus is culture, sport, family activities or simply making the most of London’s post-January resurgence, the month delivers a broad and compelling programme of events well worth your time.
1. Join an after hours gallery crawl for Art After Dark
The National Gallery, Royal Academy of Arts and National Portrait Gallery are just three of the numerous West End art institutions taking part in this year’s Art After Dark. Spanning one week in February, the art and music focused programme includes a DJ takeover at the National Gallery, live performances at BOX Piccadilly and Haymarket Hotel and an after hours gallery crawl through the West End. The centrepiece of the whole thing is a towering art installation named ‘Rise and Shine’ by London-based artist Lakwena Maciver. Her trippy 7m tall stack of disco lightboxes will stand in the middle of Piccadilly Circus channelling the energy of ’80s and ’90s London nightlife.
2. Do something romantic for Valentine’s Day
No matter your relationship status—single, newly partnered, or happily committed for the long haul—London offers an exceptional setting for Valentine’s Day. February 14 in the capital caters to every inclination, from playfully unconventional speed-dating events and tongue-in-cheek drag performances to Galentine’s gatherings and thoughtfully curated date spots designed for couples.
As plans across the city continue to take shape, we will be updating this page regularly with our curated selection of the most noteworthy Valentine’s events and experiences as they are announced.
3. Catch all the action of the Six Nations at screenings around the city
The Six Nations Men’s rugby tournament is back for 2026. From February 5, it will be taking over pubs, beer gardens and outdoor screens across London most weekends up until Saturday March 14.
France took home the title in 2025. In 2026 games take place at venues including Paris’ Stade de France, Rome’s Stadio Olimpico, Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, and London’s very own Twickenham Stadium as England, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales try to burst the French team’s bubble.
You’ll find the matches on screens at London’s many rugby pubs and bars, but if you want to watch with the most atmos possible, get yourself to one of our favourite places to grab a seat and a pint and get stuck into all the action.
4. Warm up in a pop-up sauna at Equanimity Festival
Equanimity is a newly launched wellness festival aimed at giving Londoners the opportunity to pause, recalibrate and restore—set against the backdrop of King’s Cross. At its core is Slomo’s temporary spa installation in Lewis Cubitt Square, featuring wood-fired saunas, cold plunge pools and an open fire, evoking the calm and simplicity of Scandinavian bathing culture.
Programming extends beyond the spa itself. On Sundays, Slomo’s tipi will host somatic breathwork sessions alongside curated Reset Retreats, while a broader schedule of yoga, meditation, breathwork and sound healing is led by experienced practitioners throughout the week. With many sessions designed to fit neatly into a working day, Equanimity offers an accessible way to introduce moments of calm into even the busiest lunch break.
5. Come face to face with Nemo, Woody and Lightning McQueen at Mundo Pixar
Ever watched Finding Nemo or Inside Out and wondered what it would be like to exist inside those marvelous worlds created by Pixar animation studio? Well, wonder no more – the Mundo Pixar Experience is a travelling immersive show that has been transporting Pixar fans to some of its most beloved universes. And this year, it‘s coming to London. The show essentially a journey through a series of 14 rooms, one dedicated to a different Pixar film. You shrink down to toy size in Andy’s Room from Toy Story, explore the Monster, Inc Scare Floor, race into Flo’s Café from Cars to meet Lightning McQueen, visit the Headquarters of Riley’s emotions from Inside Out 2, and journey from Coco’s Land of the Living to the Land of the Dead. To make the experience all the more ‘immersive’ there will be ‘specially crafted scents’ filling each space.
6. Catch some colourful displays at the Kew Orchid Festival
This February, the Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew Gardens turns its focus eastwards, transforming the landmark glasshouse with its annual orchid festival inspired by China. Renowned for its immersive design, the exhibition showcases the extraordinary diversity of orchids alongside the wider richness of China’s plant and wildlife heritage.
Visitors can expect dramatic visual elements throughout the conservatory, including dragon sculptures, traditional lanterns and carefully crafted botanical installations woven from living plants. The programme also extends beyond daytime viewing, with a series of ticketed evening events featuring live Chinese music, food and cocktails, as well as cultural dance performances.
Access to the orchid display is included with standard admission to Kew Gardens, making it a standout seasonal highlight within the broader visitor experience.
Five winter home features that could add £20,000 to your property value
If your home comes into its own when frost bites and the woodburner is glowing, you may be sitting on a seasonal advantage. Our data shows that colder weather can give a winter-ready home a noticeable boost to its asking price.
While some of us are still finishing off the leftover cheese, the UK housing market has already hit the ground running. If you’re thinking of selling, it’s a prime moment: now is the busiest time of year for property searches on Zoopla. Thousands of people are kicking off the new year with a resolution to find a new home.
And here’s the key: when buyers are viewing homes right now they’re not looking for sun-drenched patios or swimming pools.
We asked our network of expert estate agents how much they would market homes with certain features for in winter versus other times of the year. They based their valuations on an average 3-bed property with an asking price of £324,000.
And the results are telling: 'winter warmer' features could net you a serious premium during the colder months. A nearly-£20,000 kind of serious premium.
Here are the 5 features that add the most value to asking prices in winter.
1. A traditional wood-burning fireplace: +£4,568
Right now a woodburner represents the dream of cosy evenings and slow Sundays when it’s cold outside. In fact, 38% of homebuyers say they would be prepared to pay more for a home with a traditional fireplace.
Beyond the vibes, there’s a practical perk: a woodburner is thought to shave about 10% off heating bills, which is a neat selling point when energy costs are high.
This is why estate agents say a woodburner adds about 1.41% to your asking price. If you have one, make sure it’s lit for viewings. A roaring fire really can be the difference between a 'maybe' and an offer.
2. Quality insulation: +£4,536
It may not be the most glamorous feature, but when energy bills are front of mind, a home that holds its warmth is a major selling point. With only 52% of UK homes achieving an EPC rating of C or higher, buyers are increasingly keen for future-proofing against high bills and low efficiency.
Showing your home is a fortress against the frost adds roughly 1.4% to your home’s market value, according to estate agents. It’s the house-selling equivalent of wearing a really sensible thermal vest.
3. Underfloor heating: +£3,985
Stepping onto a warm kitchen floor when it’s 2 degrees outside? As far as we’re concerned, there’s no greater luxury.
Underfloor heating is the hidden value-add that makes a home feel premium, and it’s surprisingly energy efficient. It's estimated to use about 12% less energy than traditional radiators because it operates at lower temperatures.
Our estate agents said that underfloor heating adds roughly 1.23% to your asking price in winter. Make sure it’s turned on an hour before viewers arrive - and stick to that ‘shoes off’ policy for full effect.
4. Other energy efficiency measures: +£3,402
High-spec double glazing and efficient boilers are the quiet heroes of the January market. Around 41% of buyers say they would be prepared to pay extra for a home with good energy efficiency, and estate agents reckon it adds 1.05% to your price tag.
In an era where new builds are saving owners nearly £1,000 a year on bills compared to older stock, showing that your property can keep up is vital for protecting your price. It gives buyers peace of mind that their home will be cost-effective to run through the rest of the winter.
5. An AGA-style range cooker: +£3,337
An AGA isn't just an oven, it's a lifestyle statement. It provides a literal heart to the home that homebuyers find incredibly hard to resist, and 26% say they would pay more for a house that has one.
Estate agents say that AGAs add roughly 1.03% to your home’s value. Plus, it gives you a great excuse to have some fresh brownies sitting on the counter, which is the oldest trick in the book for a reason.
The agent’s take
Claire Carter, Country House Associate Director at John D Wood & Co. said:
“The country housing market in particular has always had a natural rhythm with the seasons - not just in terms of features, but location too. It’s not necessarily the case that features add value, but they become more emotionally compelling - a roaring fire on a cold winter’s day or a glorious garden in summer can absolutely tip a buyer’s decision.
“The time of year matters hugely for presentation, for example, a house photographed in January looks completely different by May. When selling in winter, I always encourage my clients to light the fire and turn on the underfloor heating because nobody wants to feel chilly on a viewing. During summer, it is all about showing the house in its element with blooming gardens, blue skies, and sun-dappled terraces.
“Ultimately, selling a house is about capturing the imagination of buyers and helping them to imagine their life there, whatever the season.”
What could you sell for?
The research clearly demonstrates that homebuyers are swayed by the season, and in some cases, certain features can help sellers achieve more for their home. For the first time, we’ve put a hard figure on how much value these features add with the help of our estate agent partners.
But every home is different, so bear in mind that these are averages and estimates. If you’re thinking of selling, get bespoke advice from several local estate agents. They’ll be able to advise if your unique home might be more desirable and command a higher asking price during winter, spring, summer or autumn.
Key takeaways
-
The first few months of the year are a peak time for buyer activity on Zoopla, with pent-up demand from the festive break leading to a spike in property searches.
-
Homes with certain features, like woodburners and underfloor heating, can see a boost in value during the winter months when they are most ‘in season’.
-
Nearly half of buyers (47%) admit they paid more for a property because they were swayed by seasonal features that made the home feel comfortable and inviting.
Budget-friendly places to rent without sacrificing quality of life
Trying to keep rent costs down? This guide reveals the most affordable places to rent across the UK in 2026.
The rental market is finally beginning to rebalance. After years of rapid rent increases, conditions are easing, with rents now rising at a much slower pace.
Our latest trends shows rents are just 2.2% higher than a year ago — the slowest rate of rental growth in four years. As of December 2025, the average UK rent stands at £1,320 per month, or £18,840 a year.
This slowdown is being driven by a narrowing gap between supply and demand. Rental demand has fallen by around 20% over the past year, while the number of available rental homes has increased by 15%.
For renters, this means more choice, less competition, and reduced pressure on household budgets.
Average rents in UK regions
The North East is the cheapest region to rent in the UK. The average rent here is £760 per calendar month (pcm), which is a rise of 4.5% in the last year.
It’s followed by Northern Ireland (£854 pcm), Yorkshire and the Humber (£869 pcm) and Scotland (£882 pcm).
In expensive areas like London, rents have hit an 'affordability ceiling' - people simply can't pay any more. Meanwhile, in traditionally cheaper areas, prices are jumping as people move further out to find a bargain.
London’s average rent of £2,224 pcm makes it almost twice as pricey to rent than anywhere else in the country. The capital is followed by the South East, East of England and South West.
|
Region |
Average rent per month |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
North East |
£760 |
4.5% |
£30 |
|
Northern Ireland |
£854 |
11.0% |
£80 |
|
Yorkshire and the Humber |
£869 |
1.8% |
£20 |
|
Scotland |
£882 |
1.7% |
£10 |
|
East Midlands |
£923 |
1.9% |
£20 |
|
Wales |
£945 |
2.4% |
£20 |
|
North West |
£955 |
3.2% |
£30 |
|
West Midlands |
£986 |
1.7% |
£20 |
|
South West |
£1,149 |
3.0% |
£30 |
|
East of England |
£1,263 |
2.5% |
£30 |
|
South East |
£1,397 |
2.1% |
£30 |
|
London |
£2,224 |
1.6% |
£40 |
10 cheapest cities to rent a home in 2026
If the world (or UK) is your oyster when it comes to relocating, these cities are your best bet for keeping your bank balance happy. These spots tend to have lower local living costs and many are commutable of larger nearby cities.
|
City |
Average rent per month |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Burnley |
£652 |
3.9% |
£20 |
|
Sunderland |
£661 |
3.3% |
£20 |
|
Hull |
£674 |
5.6% |
£40 |
|
Middlesbrough |
£674 |
-0.5% |
£0 |
|
Grimsby |
£683 |
3.1% |
£20 |
|
Doncaster |
£745 |
5.6% |
£40 |
|
Aberdeen |
£746 |
2.5% |
£20 |
|
Barnsley |
£747 |
6.1% |
£40 |
|
Blackpool |
£752 |
2.7% |
£20 |
|
Huddersfield |
£771 |
4.3% |
£30 |
Cheapest districts to rent by region
If you're after a bargain without relocating too far, your best bet is to look at local authorities within each region. Here's a breakdown of the cheapest districts to rent across the UK and what makes them stand out (in order from the cheapest region to the most expensive).
1. North East
The North East remains the most budget-friendly corner of the UK when it comes to renting. Hartlepool is the bargain champion, offering coastal living for a fraction of the rents you'd find down south.
County Durham has great countryside, historic landmarks and low rents, while Redcar and Cleveland’s low average rents make it one of the UK’s most affordable seaside spots.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Hartlepool |
£578 |
2.7% |
£20 |
|
County Durham |
£632 |
4.7% |
£30 |
|
Redcar and Cleveland |
£634 |
0.8% |
£10 |
2. Scotland
As the cheapest place to rent in Scotland, East Ayrshire has an average monthly rent of £602 - but it's seeing strong rental rises. It's a good example of how rents are rising the fastest in the places with more affordable rental rates. For East Ayrshire, this is the 'Glasgow effect' - people are moving further out to find value, which in turn drives up local rents.
Also on the list is Dumfries and Galloway, a scenic region known for its rugged coastline and charming market towns.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
East Ayrshire |
£602 |
7.7% |
£40 |
|
Dumfries and Galloway |
£615 |
6.6% |
£40 |
|
Angus |
£670 |
3.1% |
£20 |
3. Yorkshire and the Humber
Kingston-upon-Hull - more commonly known as Hull - is an affordable port city with a vibrant arts scene, making it a popular choice for renters in 2026 and explaining the 5.6% jump in rents this year. North East and North Lincolnshire are also affordable options in this region, with rents sitting under £700 pcm across the district.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Kingston-upon-Hull |
£674 |
5.6% |
£40 |
|
North East Lincolnshire |
£683 |
3.1% |
£20 |
|
North Lincolnshire |
£694 |
7.2% |
£50 |
4. East Midlands
The East Midlands offers plenty of affordable gems when it comes to rental homes. Rents are rising steadily as the region becomes a massive hub for logistics and remote workers.
East Lindsey is a coastal district known for its lovely beaches, perfect for those seeking a tranquil, scenic lifestyle on a budget. Bassetlaw offers a blend of rural tranquility and excellent transport links, with key towns like Worksop and Retford, while Bolsover is seeing growth as its historic charm attracts commuters from Sheffield.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
East Lindsey |
£704 |
5.3% |
£40 |
|
Bassetlaw |
£753 |
4.7% |
£30 |
|
Bolsover |
£761 |
5.4% |
£40 |
5. Wales
The Valleys remain the best place for a bargain in Wales, although it's seeing above-average rental growth as more people trade the city for the stunning Mid-Wales countryside. Look to Powys, Blaenau Gwent, and Merthyr Tydfil for the best rental value, with many spots offering good travel links to Cardiff and Swansea.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Powys |
£677 |
6.0% |
£40 |
|
Blaenau Gwent |
£696 |
3.0% |
£20 |
|
Merthyr Tydfil |
£730 |
3.1% |
£20 |
6. North West
The Burnley, Allerdale and Pendle districts have low rents compared to the rest of the UK, but they are seeing higher-than-average annual growth. All offer good commuting options and access to landscapes like the Pennines and Lake District.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Burnley |
£642 |
3.5% |
£20 |
|
Allerdale |
£666 |
9.9% |
£60 |
|
Pendle |
£668 |
4.1% |
£30 |
7. West Midlands
Stoke-on-Trent is an affordable base for renters in the West Midlands with an average rent of £752 pcm within easy reach of Birmingham. Staffordshire Moorlands is another cheap option for rents, and the affordable East Staffordshire has a number of popular market towns with good connections to Birmingham and Nottingham.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Stoke-on-Trent |
£752 |
3.8% |
£30 |
|
Staffordshire Moorlands |
£788 |
5.7% |
£40 |
|
East Staffordshire |
£830 |
6.6% |
£50 |
8. South West
The South West sits among the pricier regions to rent a home, but North Devon is a good choice for affordability. Torridge offers charming historic villages, a peaceful rural lifestyle and average rents of £809 pcm while West Devon - the gateway to Dartmoor National Park - is growing in popularity among renters, contributing to strong 10.1% annual rental growth.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
North Devon |
£827 |
5.6% |
£40 |
|
Torridge |
£829 |
4.0% |
£30 |
|
West Devon |
£873 |
10.1% |
£80 |
9. East of England
In a region typically known for higher rents, Waveney offers a seaside escape with low rents. The towns of Lowestoft and Southwold are ideal for those wanting a coastal lifestyle with good affordability.
Great Yarmouth in Norfolk is a popular seaside resort with vibrant history and affordable rents, while Fenland in Cambridgeshire offers a rural lifestyle with rents that are significantly lower than the regional average
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Waveney |
£811 |
2.5% |
£20 |
|
Great Yarmouth |
£834 |
3.6% |
£30 |
|
Fenland |
£856 |
2.0% |
£20 |
10. South East
The South East is second to only London when it comes to the most expensive places to rent a home, but the Isle of Wight offers lower prices with coastal charm and a relaxed pace of life.
Thanet is known for its popular seaside towns like Margate and Broadstairs, with affordable rents drawing more Londoners to the Kent coast in recent years. Dover’s good transport links to London also make it a popular choice for commuters.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Isle of Wight |
£951 |
2.4% |
£20 |
|
Thanet |
£1,021 |
2.1% |
£20 |
|
Dover |
£1,055 |
0.0% |
£0 |
11. London
"Cheapest" in London is relative, but Croydon stands out for its comparative affordability. It's a vibrant urban hub with excellent transport links and ongoing regeneration.
Sutton is a highly sought-after borough with a strong community feel, top schools and plenty of green spaces on the outskirts of the city, while Bexley’s mix of suburban living and transport links have pushed rents up by 4.7% in the last year.
|
Local authority |
Average rent (pcm) |
Annual rental growth (%) |
Annual rental growth (£) |
|
Croydon |
£1,617 |
2.1% |
£30 |
|
Sutton |
£1,628 |
2.9% |
£50 |
|
Bexley |
£1,638 |
4.7% |
£70 |
|
Havering |
£1,703 |
0.7% |
£10 |
|
Bromley |
£1,714 |
2.3% |
£40 |
Key takeaways
- Renters are finally seeing some relief as price hikes slow down and the frantic competition for homes begins to ease.
- Rental costs still vary wildly by location, with the North East offering the best rental value while London remains the most expensive.
- Burnley, Sunderland, and Hull top the list for the cheapest rents in UK cities in 2026.
- We’ve mapped out the best value spots in every region to help you find a cheaper rental home without leaving the area you love.
Things To Do in London January 2026: Brilliant London events to help beat the blues
January has arrived, bringing with it a fresh chapter in 2026. While many of us set ambitious goals and resolutions for the year ahead, there's no denying that January often earns its reputation as one of the tougher months. The sun sets early, temperatures drop, and our wallets feel noticeably lighter after holiday spending sprees.
However, there's a silver lining to these chilly, quiet weeks. January presents a perfect opportunity to explore London without the usual tourist crowds and at wallet-friendly prices. Many of the capital's top-rated shows, dining spots, and entertainment venues – carefully vetted by Time Out's local experts – roll out special promotions, discount tickets, and budget-friendly menus designed to draw people out during the year's darkest days.
January isn't just about weathering the gloom, though. The month brings its own festive occasions worth celebrating. Across London, you'll find Burns Night festivities honoring Scotland's beloved bard Robert Burns, complete with traditional ceilidhs, haggis feasts, and poetry recitals. Additionally, the Lunar New Year arrives conveniently early this year on January 29, promising vibrant parades and celebratory dinners throughout the city.
For those embracing Dry January or launching into new fitness routines, London provides endless possibilities. The city boasts exceptional sports facilities, diverse fitness classes, beautiful parks, and impressive walking trails. It's also become increasingly accommodating for those reducing or eliminating alcohol from their lives.
Then again, if your January plan involves cozying up beside a crackling fireplace in one of London's warmest, most inviting pubs, that's perfectly valid too! Whatever your approach to this opening month, we wish you a wonderful start to 2026.
1. Don't miss your last chance to see some of 2025’s best exhibitions
London galleries and museums churned out hundreds of excellent exhibitions and art shows in 2025. And our critics were on the ground to see a lot of them. Lucky for you, there’s the chance to catch the tail end of a few of these shows in January 2026. From Dirty Looks at the Barbican, to Cecil Beaton’s Fashionable World at the National Portrait Gallery, and Secret Maps at the British Library, see these exhibits in Jan before it’s too late.
2. Take part in Dry January at one of London’s alcohol-free bars
Low and no-alcohol is bigger than ever, and London has never had so many options for having a tipple, without actually having a tipple. So if you’re thinking of doing Dry Jan, that doesn’t mean you’re going to be stuck with a month of watching MAFS on the sofa every weekend. You still go out! And we recommend heading to one of London’s best alcohol-free bars, from Raven Records, to Club Soda, there’s loads to choose from.
3. Head out of the city on a winter day trip
London might always be bustling with fun things to do and, come winter, a jam-packed calendar of unmissable events, but sometimes you just need a break from it all. When the capital’s hustle and bustle leaves you feeling a little drained, you can find some escape from the crowds and hordes of tourists by getting up and getting out just for a day. In dire need of crisp country air, a relaxing spa day or a gorgeous, long walk? These day trips from London are all under two hours from Zone 1 and will give you the relief you need this winter.
4. Get stuck into Veganuary at a vegan restaurant
Trying a plant-based diet this January doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re after a lavish night of culinary theatre, a delicate Middle Eastern spread, a Michelin-star winning tasting menu, or brisket at a vegan smokehouse, creative chefs are showing off their prowess with plants across the city, creating pitch-perfect imitations of meaty comfort food classics, or dreaming up new vegetable-based delights.
5. Take a bracing winter walk in London
Yes, it's cold out. It's also quite wet. The leaves have fallen from the trees and turned the pavements into a slimy, slippery ice rink. But we're lucky to have some amazing, huge, parks in London, and walking around in them on a crisp winter's day is genuinely one of life’s great joys. Whether you're a Royal Parks stan or a fiend for Hampstead Heath, there are loads of parks to choose from. So, get out there.
6. Go for one last skate at a pop-up winter ice rink
Is there anything more wonderfully wintry than wrapping up warm, pulling on some ice skates and gliding around a frosty slab of ice with your loved ones? Each winter, London fills up with pop-up rinks, from the legendary Somerset House to the newer Glide at Battersea Power Station. At all, you’ll find festive vibes ramped up to the max, especially come December – and a lot of fellow Londoners vying for a spot on the ice. Book in advance to guarantee you can show off your best ice moves (or your ability to stay upright, at the very least). Here are some of the best rinks to soar across this winter.
7. Hob nob with the art world at the London Art Fair
London’s established winter art fair features over 120 international galleries showing modern art, photography, sculpture and everything in between. The 2026 edition of the London Art Fair will feature large-scale installations and thematic group displays from some very influential 20th and 21st century artists, including Tracey Emin, Barbara Hepworth, Francis Bacon, William Kentridge and Louise Bourgeois, while a Platform section will be presenting work from artists ‘redefining the boundaries between craft, applied art, and fine art, and challenging artistic expectations around materials’. A new partnership with the National Trust will see the conservation charity present an exhibition of surrealist and post-war abstract works from the collections of The Homewood and Erno Goldfinger’s 2 Willow Road, never before exhibited outside these iconic modernist homes.
8. Witness acclaimed dance-theatre company Gecko’s surreal show ‘The Wedding’
Gecko’s fantastic dance-theatre production The Wedding is back on in London. Surreal, funny and full of heart, The Wedding takes a poke at the marriage contract, takind the audience on a wild trip through a dystopian world where we are all brides, wedded to society. Part of MimeLondon, this production will be a stripped back imagining of Gecko’s beloved production.
Inside the Modern Buyer's Mind: The Features Defining Britain's Housing Market
From functional necessities to aspirational upgrades, explore the ten features shaping property searches across the UK
When it comes to house hunting, everyone’s got their non-negotiables.
For some, it’s all about a garage for the car (or the clutter). For others, it’s a garden big enough for a football pitch, or maybe a pool to dip into when the Great British summer finally shows up.
Zoopla’s latest search data offers a clear snapshot of what buyers have dreamt about most this year, revealing the keywords that are setting the pace in the property market.
And if you’re lucky enough to own a home with these features? Get an valuation to find out how it impacts your home’s value and how many buyers would be interested right now.
1. Garage (or even better, a double garage)
Garages are still the undisputed heavyweight champion of home features. Whether it’s shelter for a cherished car, a place to hide an ever-growing collection of tools, or the perfect spot for a DIY gym, buyers cannot get enough.
And if one garage is good, a double garage is clearly better. More space, more storage, more smug satisfaction when the heavens open.
With electric vehicles on the rise and families needing room for everything from bikes to buggies, it is no wonder this keyword sits firmly at the top. A garage is no longer just a bonus. For many buyers, it’s an essential piece of kit.
2. New-build buying schemes
Hot on the heels of practicality comes opportunity. Our exclusive filter for new-build buying schemes helps you quickly spot Help to Buy-style options and developer incentives that could make a real difference to your affordability.
The appeal is clear: energy-efficient homes, modern layouts and a little extra financial support to help make that first (or next) step. Two schemes in particular are drawing plenty of attention.
- Deposit Unlock
Deposit Unlock lets you buy a new-build house or two-bedroom apartment with just a 5% deposit. The developer pays into an insurance policy that lowers the lender’s risk, which can mean a better mortgage rate - even if you’re borrowing up to 95% of the home’s value.
It is open to all buyers, provided the developer is part of the scheme. Studios and one-bed flats are not eligible. - Own New - Rate Reducer
Rate Reducer focuses on making monthly payments more manageable. It uses the housebuilder’s incentive budget to lower your mortgage rate, sometimes to below 1% for a fixed period.
For example, a 5% incentive on a £350,000 mortgage at 60% LTV could bring the rate down from 4.79% to 0.99% for two years, cutting payments to roughly £883 a month.
The scheme is available to both first-time buyers and existing homeowners, with several major lenders and over 200 housebuilders already on board.
Together, these schemes show why searches for new build buying options remain sky-high and why our exclusive filter is proving such a powerful tool for buyers ready to make their move.
3. Annexe
Annexes are having quite the moment, and it’s not hard to see why. Buyers are searching for homes that can bend and flex with real life, whether that means a comfortable space for ageing parents, a soft landing for adult children, or a handy spot to generate a little side income.
An annexe offers independence and connection in equal measure. It’s close enough for support, yet separate enough for privacy, which makes it a smart solution for today’s multigenerational households.
No surprise, then, that this search term keeps climbing the charts. Versatile, practical and future-proof, an annexe adds a layer of convenience that many buyers now consider essential.
4. Rural
The city has its sparkle, but many buyers are craving something a little quieter.
Searches for rural homes are climbing, driven by the lure of open fields, slower mornings and the joy of hearing actual birds rather than delivery vans.
For some, it’s about trading crowded pavements for winding lanes. For others, it’s the promise of space, fresh air and a lifestyle that feels a touch more grounded.
Whatever the reason, the countryside dream is very much alive, and plenty of movers are ready to swap city bustle for a gentler pace.
5. Acre
When a garden simply will not cut it, buyers are turning their sights to something a little more expansive.
Searches for “acre” highlight a growing appetite for proper space, whether it’s for smallholding ambitions, a paddock for the family pony, or the ultimate backdrop for summer gatherings.It’s a clear sign that post-pandemic priorities still linger. Room to roam, breathe and create a lifestyle on your own terms has never looked more tempting. An acre is not just land; it’s possibility.
December in London: Your Ultimate Festive & Cultural Guide
London in December 2025 is a dazzling blend of festive tradition and high-calibre cultural events. The city sparkles with Christmas lights, markets, and carol services, creating a magical holiday atmosphere, but the month offers much more than just seasonal cheer.
This guide highlights the key happenings:
- Cultural Premieres & Must-Sees: December marks the UK debut of the acclaimed play Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo and the first full month of the Wes Anderson Exhibition at the Design Museum.
- Final Curtain Calls: Catch the wildly popular jukebox musical Titanique before its run ends in January 2026.
- Essential Winter Activities: The best ice-skating rinks (including Somerset House and Battersea Power Station) and vibrant Christmas markets are in full swing.
- Beyond Christmas: The month culminates in the spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations, including river cruises and the start of the London New Year's Day Parade.
It's the perfect time to enjoy cosy pub hangouts, winter walks, and world-class entertainment before the year closes out.
1. Get your skate on at Somerset House
⭐ Things to do ❄️ Ice skating 📌 Aldwych ⏰ Until 11 Jan 2026
Somerset House’s annual ice rink pop-up has long been one of the city’s favourite festive traditions, with thousands of Londoners and tourists alike making it part of their celebrations each year, and for good reason. Gliding (or nervously shuffling) around the rink, gazing upon the surrounding Georgian architecture and the courtyard’s magnificent 40ft Christmas tree feels like you’ve skated onto a movie set, ready to be watched by families settling in for their post-turkey food coma. Look out for the venue’s famous Skate Lates, where you can soar round the rink to a DJ soundtrack.
2. Embrace the festive magic at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
⭐ Things to do ✨ Markets and fairs 📌 Hyde Park ⏰ Until 1 Jan 2026
Each year, Hyde Park gets transformed from pretty park to a dazzling, snow-covered, Alpine-themed, 350-acre festive funscape. One of the largest Christmas events in the UK, Winter Wonderland returns for its eighteenth year in 2025, and is expected to welcome around 2.5 million visitors over six magical weeks. As you make your way around the space, you’ll find fairground rides, a child-friendly Santa Land (including a Santa’s Grotto, where presents lie in wait) and traditional Christmas markets.
3. Fill your bags at Southbank Centre Winter Market 2025
⭐ Things to do ✨ Markets and fairs 📌 South Bank ⏰ Until 26 Dec 2025
Every winter, the Southbank Centre turns the banks of the Thames into a frosty wonderland, full of little wooden Alpine-style cabins selling gifts, warming drinks, and snacks. You’ll find huts serving up truffle burgers, duck wraps, mulled wine, Dutch pancakes, churros and many more tasty morsels to nibble on while you look through gifts, jewellery and decorations made by independent craft traders. Or, once you’re done browsing, snuggle up at pop-up king Jimmy Garcia’s riverside venue Fire And Fromage, where you can snaffle all you can eat raclette, sip on seriously decadent hot chocolates, and even toast your own marshmallows around a cosy fire pit.
4. Peruse London’s many, many Christmas markets
Markets, eh? They’re pretty nice to wander around at nearly every time of year. But, at Christmas? Well, that’s when London’s markets really come into their own. Every year the capital fills with the kind of markets that host fairy-light-lined stalls, festive street-food sellers and community tombolas, with a playlist of Christmas songs on loop in the background. In fact, whether you’re looking for tasty treats, traditional decorations and cutting-edge arts and crafts or are just shopping for a last-minute present, the capital’s selection of Yuletide stalls are here to help.
5. Step into a dinosaur’s world, like never before at Lightroom
Step into the heart of King’s Cross and enter a world where dinosaurs still reign. Actor Damian Lewis takes you on a breathtaking journey through 360° landscapes, from sun-scorched deserts to storm-tossed oceans, as prehistoric skies come alive with towering, life-size giants. Brand-new visuals and cinematic sequences recreate the most thrilling moments of Prehistoric Planet, while an epic original score by Hans Zimmer and co. pulses through every scene. Don’t miss this immersive adventure with 24% off adult tickets.
Get £19 tickets, only through Time Out Offers
6. Get your snack on at Borough Market’s annual Evening of Cheese
⭐ Things to do ✨ Food and drink events 📌 Borough ⏰ 10 Dec 2025
The world of solid dairy has some truly devoted fans and they’ll do well to pay a visit to Borough Market’s annual Evening of Cheese, where they’ll find an enormous range of products from all over the world to tempt turophiles, including wines, ciders, chutneys and – obviously – absolutely loads of top quality cheese from around Europe. Looking to craft the perfect festive cheeseboard? Head down to get your paws on loads of tasty little samples, and some expert advice from the market’s artisanal traders. There’ll be plenty of drinks on hand to complete the gouty vibes, while the festivities will also feature the annual parmesan-cracking competition, where cheesemongers compete to cut open a huge wheel of the good stuff and arrange it in a tower. Be sure to nab a spot by the front to get first dips on the freebies afterwards!
7. Head to Columbia Road Christmas Wednesdays
⭐ Things to do ✨ Late openings 📌 Bethnal Green ⏰ Until 17 Dec 2025
Head to Columbia Road on a Wednesday evening this Christmas and you’ll find its more than 60 indie shops open late for all your present buying needs. Starting from November 26, mulled wine and locally-made mince pies will be on hand to give you much-needed sustenance as you shop. Sadly, the weekly carol singing that went viral in recent years is no more.
8. Scale the O2 on a special festive climb
⭐ Things to do ✨ Greenwich Peninsula ⏰ Until 4 Jan 2026
Got a thirst for adventure and winter-themed beverages? Up at The O2 – the dare-devil tour that lets you climb up the outside of the Greenwich venue’s famous white dome – has been given a festive makeover. After being strapped into a harness and ascending to the top of the 52 metre-high dome, climbers will get to retreat into an immersive snow globe featuring falling snow, the sweet smell of cookies and a ‘whimsical winter set-up’ from which they’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the city from.
9. Sing along to Christmas carols at one of London’s festive concerts
⭐ Music ✨ Classical and opera
An evening of proper Christmas carols is an absolute must if you’re interested in getting entirely wrapped up in unalloyed festive cheer. Check out our comprehensive round-up of the jolliest and most moving services in the capital. Indoors and outdoors, cathedrals, churches and secular spaces, we’ll be adding to it constantly, as more events are announced.
10. Bring in the New Year right
New Year’s Eve in London means you’re faced with some choices. Sometimes there’s so much choice, in fact, that you end up spending the night indoors with a few loved ones and plenty of booze. We’ve all been there, but London boasts loads of great New Year’s Eve events that should coax even the most reluctant NYE fan out of the house this year.
UK Housing Market Delivers Significant Capital Appreciation
Nearly 2.5 million homes have gained £100k+ in value since 2020—equivalent to £55 per day.
If you bought your home five years ago, you might want to take a peek at what it’s worth today, it could be a pleasant surprise.
Our latest research shows that while most homeowners have seen steady gains of just under 20% over that period, more than two million homes have gained £100,000 or more in that time.
But as ever, location matters, and the scale of your gains depends very much on where you call home.
Where are homes increasing in value?
It’s perhaps no surprise that the biggest value hikes are found in the South of England, where house prices already start from a higher base.
In fact, around 6 in 10 homes that have gained £100,000 or more in the past five years are located in the south.
London leads the charge, accounting for 16% of these properties; that’s nearly 400,000 homes that have seen six-figure gains.
Not far behind are the Home Counties, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Essex and Surrey, where another 400,000 homes have also crossed the £100k mark.
Step outside the capital and its commuter belt, and you’ll still find some impressive hotspots. Places like the Cotswolds, Trafford, South Hams and Malvern Hills have all seen more than a quarter of local homes rise by at least £100,000 since October 2020 - proof that strong growth isn’t just confined to the city lights.
|
Region |
Percentage of homes up by £100k+ |
Number of homes up by £100k+ |
|
East of England |
40% |
20,994 |
|
South East |
38% |
16,250 |
|
London |
37% |
25,510 |
|
South West |
33% |
11,300 |
|
North West |
31% |
25,433 |
|
West Midlands |
25% |
6,895 |
|
East Midlands |
24% |
6,178 |
|
Wales |
23% |
7,507 |
|
Yorkshire and The Humber |
21% |
12,322 |
|
Scotland |
21% |
5,175 |
|
North East |
13% |
10,675 |
The North West sees fastest growth
While the South of England leads in cash gains, the North West and Wales have seen the most dramatic percentage increases.
Across the UK, over 800 thousand homes have jumped in value by 50% or more over the past five years, and just under a third of these (240,000 homes - 30%) are found in the North West.
In places like Rochdale, Oldham and Bolton, values have surged as buyers seek better value for money within commuting reach of Manchester and Liverpool.
South Wales has also shone, particularly in Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil, where 2 in 10 homes have risen by 50% or more since 2020.
Of course, not every homeowner has seen their property’s value rise. Over the last five years, 1.4 million homes across the UK have actually fallen in value by at least £10,000, showing just how varied the market has become.
London has seen the biggest share of losses, with around 1 in 4 homes now valued below their pre-pandemic level. Nearly 275,000 homes in the capital have dropped by £50,000 or more, and about 200,000 of those are in inner boroughs such as Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, where 3 in 10 homes have fallen by £100,000 or more.
|
Region |
Percentage of homes down by £10k+ |
Number of homes down by £10k+ |
|
London |
70% |
76,000 |
|
Scotland |
43% |
25,000 |
|
South East |
19% |
7,000 |
|
East of England |
14% |
4,000 |
|
South West |
6% |
4,000 |
|
West Midlands |
6% |
23,000 |
|
Yorkshire and The Humber |
5% |
3,000 |
|
Wales |
4% |
2,000 |
|
East Midlands |
4% |
5,000 |
|
North West |
4% |
4,000 |
|
North East |
3% |
3,000 |
Beyond London, some homeowners in Aberdeenshire and parts of urban Essex and Surrey have also seen values edge back, reflecting slower demand in higher-priced or more specialised markets.
Still, these areas are the exception rather than the rule. For most of the country, values have either held steady or grown; a sign of how resilient the UK’s housing market has remained, even amid rising mortgage costs and a broader cost of living squeeze.
Why the five-year view matters
Looking back to June 2020 gives us a clear picture of how the market has evolved through an extraordinary period. The pandemic changed what buyers were looking for, with more people seeking space, greenery and better value outside traditional commuter zones.
Those trends drove price growth in areas that had previously flown under the radar, especially across the North West and Wales.
Then, as mortgage rates rose and affordability tightened from 2022 onwards, demand shifted again, slowing price growth in the South, but keeping activity steady in regions where homes still offered relative affordability.
Five years on, this comparison also speaks to a more personal milestone. Many homeowners start to reassess their next move around the five-year mark (the so-called “five-year itch”) whether that means upsizing, downsizing, or exploring a new location.
Making the most of your paper gains
For those thinking about selling, these figures might be the nudge you need to check what your home is worth today. Even if you’re not planning to move, knowing your current home value can help you plan your next steps - whether that’s remortgaging, renovating, or simply celebrating how much your property has grown in five years.
While the market continues to evolve, many homeowners remain in a stronger position than they might expect. And for those who’ve seen slower growth, history suggests the market has a way of balancing itself out over time.
So, whether your home has gained £100,000 or £10,000, it’s worth taking stock of how much things have changed since 2020, and what that could mean for your next chapter.
Key takeaways
- Over 2.5 million homes across the UK have risen in value by £100,000 or more since October 2020
- Southern England leads the way, with 6 in 10 of these homes located in London and other regions in the south
- 30% of homes that have increased in value by 50% or more are found in the North West
- 1.4 million homes have seen their value fall by at least £10,000 in the past five years.
London in November 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Seasonal Highlights and Unmissable Experiences
From glittering light displays to cultural showcases — discover what makes London shine during the darker days of November.
As autumn fades and winter creeps in, London transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration and creativity. November 2025 promises an eclectic mix of events — from Diwali festivals and Bonfire Night fireworks to the city’s much-anticipated Christmas light switch-ons. The capital’s cultural calendar is brimming with blockbuster theatre productions, world-class art exhibitions, and seasonal pop-ups that bring warmth and energy to the chillier days. Ice rinks, festive markets, and gourmet winter pop-ups begin to take shape across the city, offering the perfect prelude to the holiday season. Before December’s frenzy begins, immerse yourself in the best of what London has to offer this November — where tradition meets modern festivity in dazzling style.
1. Catch super-cool artists around the city at Pitchfork Music Festival
Pitchfork Music Festival is gearing up for another edition, with a jam-packed schedule of eclectic live music encompassing everything from avant-rock and post-punk to psych-pop, UK rap and deconstructed dance music.
This year's line-up features Aussie psych King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard at the Royal Albert Hall on November 4 and French electronic pop artist Oklou at the Roundhouse on November 7, followed by American experimentalist artist Laurie Anderson the next night. Of course, you've still got a plethora of other venues getting involved with shows at Colour Factory, KOKO and the Dalston Takeover with Panchiko, Indigo De Souza, underscores and Jay Som.
Watch this space for more acts who will no doubt be on your Spotify Wrapped come December 2026. It’s basically the place to be if you consider yourself a music fan with a finger on the pulse.
2. Watch the London skyline light up with fireworks on Bonfire Night
Of all of the UK’s winter traditions, there’s nothing like gathering in a park in the nippy nights of early November to watch a pile of flaming wood and fireworks piercing the sky. Bonfire Night – aka Guy Fawkes Night –might sound strange to those unfamiliar with it, but it’s a great British tradition and one of the highlights of the second half of the year.
London puts on a plethora of Bonfire Night and fireworks displays, some on 5 November itself, but most on either the weekend before or after, so you can really make the most of the fun. And these days, fireworks displays are about more than bonfires and colourful skies – it’s now the norm for events to boast funfairs, food stalls and more. Click through to check out our guide the biggest and brightest firework displays in London this November.
3. Watch London’s Christmas lights get switched on
Even if you’re the biggest Scrooge, you can’t deny that London looks pretty magical once the Christmas lights have been turned on and tinsel-covered trees greet you at every turn.
London starts to fill up with Christmas light displays in early November each year, with Oxford Street’s decorations leading the charge, followed by countless local displays across the city as December hits full swing. Many of the biggest shopping streets mark the occasion with big switch-on events featuring musical entertainment, celebrity guests and special offers across local restaurants, bars and shops. Click through for more details.
4. Start your Christmas shopping at festive markets around the city
Some people start prepping for Christmas before the first autumn leaf has fluttered to the ground. But if you hang on a little, you’ll be rewarded with a shopping experience to savour, as you shop for one-of-a-kind gifts in a festive market.
In the winter months running up to Crimbo, the capital becomes home to tons of wintry fairs, stacked with stalls selling unique pressies from small businesses and independent designers that you’d never find in the big shops online or off. They’re perfect for browsing as the big day looms and a good excuse to treat yourself to Christmas snacks and mulled wine as you tick gifts off your list.
You’ll find everything you need to make someone’s Christmas Day memorable at London’s pop-up markets, from ceramics and plants to pressies from around the world. Be sure to bookmark this page, because we’ll be adding more markets around the city as they’re announced.
5. Do some doodling at The Big Draw Festival
The world’s biggest celebration of drawing is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the theme ‘Drawn Together’ in 2025. Taking place across the UK, and the capital, the month-long extravaganza will have everything from family-friendly doodle sessions, to sketching workshops held at London landmarks. There are also spray painting workshops, ‘sketchwalks’ and kids’ colouring sessions taking place across the city. Check the Big Draw’s website for the full programme.
6. Be one of the festive season’s first visitors to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Each year, Hyde Park gets transformed from pretty park to a dazzling, snow-covered, Alpine-themed, 350-acre festive funscape. One of the largest Christmas events in the UK, Winter Wonderland returns for its eighteenth year in 2025, and is expected to welcome around 2.5 million visitors over six magical weeks.
As you make your way around the space, you’ll find fairground rides, a child-friendly Santa Land (including a Santa’s Grotto, where presents lie in wait) and traditional Christmas markets where you’ll be able to buy gifts for all your loved ones, which has been freshly extended for 2025 with the addition of premium, artfully lit shopping spot Luminarie Lane.
Other highlights include circus shows from Cirque Beserk, which take place three times each evening, the biggest outdoor ice rink in the UK and an ice sculpture exhibit that’s been freshly reimagined as a ‘Mystical, Mythical Fantasy World’, featuring a Real Ice Slide and ice sculpting workshops, after which you can warm yourself up later with frothing steins and steaming cups of mulled wine at the German-style Bavarian Village.
The queues can get pretty long, so we recommend booking your tickets in advance. Plus, there’s so much to explore that you need to leave a fair bit of time; it tends to take about three hours to make it round the whole site. Make sure you wrap up warm, too!
7. Check out a slew of great new London restaurants
For some reason, this November is a bumper month for new openings. If you’re a pizza-head then there are new branches of Ria’s and Napoli On The Road set for Foubert’s Place and Wardour Street in Soho, while old school Knightsbridge Italian Sale e Pepe is opening a second seafood-forward site, Sale e Pepe Mare, at The Langham hotel by Oxford Circus.
Ivan Orkin from Netflix’s Chef’s Table also opens Ivan Ramen, his first London restaurant, this month in Farringdon, while Maset, a classy coastal French restaurant, launches in Marylebone. Want something even more glam? Then Belmond’s festive lunch kicks off this month, offering a five-course meal served on a vintage train that pootles around the most scenic parts of Kent. Click through to find out more.
How Much Are Sellers Really Making?
Property really can pay off, with home sellers in England and Wales making an average profit of £72,000
New analysis of Land Registry and Registers of Scotland data has revealed just how much sellers across the UK have been cashing in over the last 18 months. Spoiler: it depends a lot on where you live, what you own, and how long you’ve been there.
On average, sellers in England and Wales made £72,000 profit when selling their home (that’s the price of a new Tesla). That’s roughly a 38% boost on the price they originally paid. Not bad for simply living somewhere!
But the story isn’t the same everywhere. Some regions are true golden tickets, while others have been a little slower to reward homeowners.
London and the South East are the jackpot regions. Sellers here typically walked away with £130,000 and £94,000 profit respectively. To put that into perspective, £130,000 could buy you an average-priced home in 11 local authorities in the North. Talk about relocating with change to spare.
The reason? Higher property values, longer stays in homes, and strong price growth in the years before Brexit.
In contrast, the North East has been a tougher market. Sellers there made around £35,000 profit on average, which works out at about 26% of their original purchase price. This lower return reflects the region’s long recovery period following the 2008 financial crash, when prices took more than a decade to bounce back. However, on the plus side, the North East is now enjoying stronger-than-average price growth, driven by its relative affordability and increasing buyer demand.
|
Avg. gains during sale (£) |
Avg. gains during sale (%) |
Avg. time in property |
Median sold price |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
London |
£130,000 |
35% |
10 |
£513,000 |
|
South East |
£94,000 |
35% |
9 |
£370,000 |
|
East |
£84,000 |
36% |
9 |
£330,000 |
|
South West |
£80,000 |
37% |
8 |
£303,000 |
|
West Midlands |
£70,000 |
41% |
9 |
£247,000 |
|
East Midlands |
£68,000 |
41% |
8 |
£243,000 |
|
Wales |
£65,000 |
45% |
9 |
£210,000 |
|
North West |
£62,000 |
42% |
9 |
£215,000 |
|
Yorkshire and the Humber |
£55,000 |
38% |
9 |
£205,000 |
|
Scotland |
£37,200 |
24% |
6 |
£154,700 |
|
North East |
£35,000 |
26% |
9 |
£165,000 |
|
England and Wales |
£72,100 |
38% |
9 |
£285,000 |
How long you stay matters
If you think the longer you live in your home, the more profit you’ll make when you sell…well, that’s mostly true. But there’s a twist.
Homeowners who sold after 10-15 years often saw bigger gains than those who stuck it out for 15-20 years. That’s because many long-stayers had the misfortune of owning during the global financial crisis when prices dipped.
In southern England and London, the classic rule applies: the longer you’ve owned, the more you’ve gained.
But in lower-value regions that saw a price boom after Covid, even those who sold after just a few years walked away with solid profits.
How often do people actually move?
Across the UK, the average homeowner stays in their property for 9 years before selling. But in London and the South East, that stretches to 10-11 years. Moving there is pricier (hello, stamp duty) and less affordable, so people stay put longer.
In commuter towns like Dartford, Slough, Watford, Enfield and Romford, the average time before moving is also around 9 years.
In big regional cities like Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds, people also tend to stay put longer than their neighbours.
What does this all mean?
Whether you’re thinking of selling, staying, or daydreaming about what your house could be worth, it’s clear that location and timing play huge roles in the kind of profit you can make.
Some sellers are unlocking enough money to buy a home outright elsewhere, while others are seeing more modest returns. With house price growth now slowing after several years of rapid increases, homeowners who bought more recently may not be looking at gains of £72,000 or more. Still, it’s a useful reminder of how much wealth can build up over time through property ownership.
Whether you’re sitting on a potential six-figure profit or something more modest, your home isn’t just a roof over your head; it’s quietly earning its keep in the background.