Because it’s never too early, right" Here are five family goings-on that will both warm your heart and get you stupidly excited for the big day

Indulge their sweet tooth at The Dorchester

On Saturday 18 November, The Dorchester will be unveiling its giant gingerbread hotel replica, giving families a tasty insight into the hotel like never before. Be sure to get there for the big reveal, and stop by the hotel’s magical Sweet Emporium on the way out to stock up on candy canes, giant swirl lollipops and flying saucers galore, as well as plenty of other classic English sweets. Don’t forget to snap yourselves next to the life-sized Nutcracker soldiers welcoming you outside!

Available to visit daily until Friday 5 January.
Enjoy films and fun at The Soho Hotel

If you find you’ve got some last-minute shopping to finish, drop the kids off at The Soho Hotel for its ‘Christmas Special’ children’s film club for a fun-filled day of movies and crafts. Children’s party specialists Sharky & George will be there to keep the little ones entertained with festive games and crafts, including DIY tree decorations and Christmas cracker gift boxes to take home. After all the activities, a buffet brunch and drinks will be provided, followed by a special screening of How The Grinch Stole Christmas.

Sunday 17 December. £45 per child for the whole session, or £10 per person for the film only. 

Listen to festive storytelling ...