Wharf Life's Party Season Supplement, Sept 3-17, 2025

how The Gun is gearing up for a cosy festive season beside the river as it unveils its Christmas offerings

by Jon Massey

Christmas is about cosiness and where better to find a snug retreat than at The Gun. Dating back to the early 18th century, the pub has been offering warmth and riverside refuge to east Londoners, local workers and visitors to the area for hundreds of years.

It stands proudly on the edge of the Thames offering open fires, views across the water to Greenwich Peninsula and a wealth of options for those looking to celebrate. The festive season is around two months away, with dates already being snapped up by companies and private parties, so we’ve put this showcase together to spotlight this historic venue’s offerings for 2025.

for festive dining...

This year The Gun is offering a three-course menu for £65. Starters include Whipped Chicken Liver Parfait, King Prawn Cocktail and Beetroot And Apple Tartare, with classic mains such as Usk Vale Turkey Breast (plus all the trimmings), Venison Loin and Wild Mushroom Polenta for mains.

Desserts to follow include Dark Chocolate Delice, Poached Plum Pavlova and, of course, Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding. Diners will also enjoy Chocolate Truffles to finish, with add-ons available over the course of the meal such as English sparkling wine for £10, a cheeseboard and extra servings of Pigs In Blankets, Roast Potatoes and Cave-Aged Cauliflower Cheese for £6 each.

indoor spaces

The Gun’s historic rooms have welcomed countless guests over the years including former local Lord Nelson who would pop down from his Manchester Road address for secret assignations with Lady Emma Hamilton upstairs at the pub.

Today, the first floor River Room offers commanding views towards The O2 and can be booked for up to 16 guests seated around a large, central oak table.

Downstairs the pub offers a range of flexible spaces, namely The Dining Room, The Cabin Room, The Red Room and the Riverside Conservatory. Respectively these can take up

£65

to 70, 22, 20 and 40 guests seated, with various configurations available.

the jewel in the crown

Beyond the indoor options is a fully covered and heated garden space that will combine festive decorations with views over the water this Christmas.

The space is ideal for larger parties and can accommodate up to 190 people. Updates for 2025 include new wooden seating pods and furnishings, lending the space something of an aprés ski feel.

they say

The Gun’s general manager, Danny Daws, said: “Our covered and heated garden is a real selling point for parties. Our offering remains about quality, service and personality – these are the cornerstones of what we do.”

anything else?

Goodness yes. In addition to its festive season offering, The Gun is also open on Christmas Day, with a special menu for £130. Guests can expect the likes of Cured Salmon, Venison Pate En Croute and Hand Picked Devon Crab with Usk Valley Turkey Breast, Cured And Torched Monkfish or Grassroots Beef Wellington to follow.

Desserts include Chocolate Mousse, Vanilla Poached Pear and Honeycake. The price includes a glass of English sparkling wine, canapés, truffles and a mince pie.

and nally...

The Gun is also available for exclusive hire and larger corporate bookings. Please contact the events team by emailing gun.docklands-events@fullers.co.uk for more information.

key details

The Gun in Coldharbour is taking festive bookings from November 17, right through until January 4. Reservations are available Monday-Saturday including Christmas Day at the riverside pub. Go to thegundocklands.com more information and bookings or call the team on 020 7519 0075 to secure a spot

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pairing

with personality

how

it’s a case of right place, right time at The Fox Excel for Xmas 2025 as dates are booking fast

by Jon Massey

Christmas Is Closer Than You Think” is the tagline for The Fox Excel’s 2025 seasonal campaign and with good reason. The message is both a call to action on timing and a reminder of what’s on o er within easy reach of east London businesses at the Royal Docks venue.

The warehouse bar and restaurant is located in an historic building right next to exhibition and conference centre Excel London – beneting from the same rapid transport connections across the capital.

The Fox is a versatile space that can accommodate up to 800 guests standing or 300 seated in total and also boasts several distinct spaces that can be hired for smaller parties between 20 and 100. There’s even a sizeable terrace where guests can sup mulled wine as the weather gets chillier.

For 2025, its Christmas o ering is built around two core menus, both available from November 18 until Christmas Eve.

The Festive Finger Bu et costs £27.95 per person and includes the likes of Mini Turkey And Cranberry Sliders, Pigs In Blankets, Tempura Prawns and Jackfruit Wings.

The Fox’s Christmas Set Menu costs £24.95 for two courses or £29.95 for three and features starters of Smoked Salmon and Roasted Red Pepper And Tomato Soup followed by mains of Roast Turkey, Rump Steak and Butternut Squash and Lentil Wellington. Desserts include Traditional Christmas Pudding and Lemon Cheesecake.

The venue itself, housed in a warehouse building that dates from the 1850s, is versatile and able to accommodate small, medium and large celebrations. Facilities include the option to have a fully-equipped stage

>> a little extra

Get a little reward for being ahead of the curve with The Fox’s festive Advent Calendar, now available on the venue’s website with surprise o ers and festive perks up for grabs – think welcome zz and bonus menu upgrades...

The Fox o ers set menus and nger food options

and AV set-up for bigger events plus pop-up bars and even late-night DJs.

With only a little over two months until the start of party season, December dates are already getting booked up –party planners are advised to act sooner rather than later.

Those planning parties can email the team direct via events@foxexcel.co.uk.

key details

The Fox Excel is located in Royal Docks, a few minutes’ walk from Custom House station for DLR and Elizabeth Line services.

The latter places the venue just three minutes from Canary Wharf by public transport and o ers rapid connections across London.

Go to foxexcel.co.uk for more details or call 020 7473 2288

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Cool and chic, nd out what Feels Like June has to o er party planners in Canary Wharf this Christmas - Page 18

at Christmas Celebrate

Exclusive hire of the venue

Dinner and show every night

Standing capacity for Feels Like June, making it ideal for larger corporate gatherings

how Feels Like June in Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf is ideal for everything from team catch-ups to large corporate gatherings, with inspirational menus and party packages

by Jon Massey

where are these wonderful things?

This is Feels Like June, located on Water Street in Wood Wharf. The venue recently launched its 2025 Christmas o ering.

tell me more...

The venue is on the ground oor of Tribe London Canary Wharf and can accommodate up to 220 people standing or 150 seated. It also boasts a heated outdoor terrace that can seat 100 or t 150 standing.

sounds like a place for a party...

Feels Like June is a great place for a standing reception and has put together a menu of canapés aimed at making event planners’ lives easier.

For 2025, bites include the likes of Mini Cheeseburgers, Duck Croquettes and Spiced Chickpea Falafel Bonbon. There are also sweet treats such as Williams Pear Crumble and Mini Lemon Meringue Tart.

Six items cost £34 per person, while eight cost £42, with £6 for any additional items.

how about something more formal?

To cater for festive diners, the venue has created two three-course set menus for guests to indulge in.

Festive Feast costs £45 per person and includes starters of Turkey Croquettes or Heritage Beetroot, mains of Pumpkin And Sage Ravioli or Slow Roasted Turkey Breast with desserts of Homemade Nutmeg Tart or Dark Chocolate Mousse to round things o .

There’s also the Winter Luxe menu for £60 per person, which features the likes of Blue n Tuna Tartare or Avocado Fondant to start, Portobello Mushroom Wellington or Wild Seabass for mains and Williams Pear Crumble for dessert.

but there’s more than just food?

Of course. A full range of wine, beers, ciders and spirits are available from Feels Like June’s expert bartenders. Bespoke cocktails and mulled wine will also be on o er. The events team is happy to arrange drinks packages to t clients’ requirements.

can FLJ help with my event too? Naturally. The team works with a

range of partners to assist organisers in staging next level parties. Options for gatherings include –but are certainly not limited to – DJs, cocktail masterclasses, live musicians, photobooths, fashion portraits and digital printing.

how can I nd out more? Those making general reservations should get in touch via email to hello@feelslikejune.co.uk. For larger corporate bookings, message sales.canarywharf@mytribehotel.com.

key details

Feels Like June is within easy walking distance of Canary Wharf’s Jubilee, Elizabeth Line and DLR stations. Its festive menus will be available from November 17 until December 26. Go to feelslikejune.co.uk for more information or to make a christmas booking

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ROLL UP! ROLL UP!

THIS DECEMBER, EXPERIENCE AN INDOOR FUNFAIR AT MAGAZINE LONDON, JUST 5 MINUTES FROM CANARY WHARF, WHERE VIBRANT CARNIVAL ENERGY MEETS ELEGANT RIVERSIDE DINING. SIP COCKTAILS AT THE THEMED CAROUSEL BAR, REVEL IN CLASSIC FAIRGROUND ATTRACTIONS WITH A MODERN TWIST, AND ENJOY A TWO-COURSE BANQUET WITH STUNNING VIEWS OF THE THAMES AND THE CITY. JOIN US THIS CHRISTMAS FOR A NIGHT OF THRILLS, LAUGHTER, AND EXCITEMENT!

SHARED PARTY DATES: PACKAGES JUST £120 + VAT PER PERSON.

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES:

•PANORAMIC THAMES VIEWS

•SPECTACULAR INDOOR FUNFAIR

•SENSATIONAL TWO-COURSE DINNER

•INTERACTIVE DESSERT STATION

•LIGHTSHOW, DANCE FLOOR AND DJ

Maximum capacity of Boisdale Of Canary Wharf for a standing reception. It can accommodate 250 seated

showcasing the

The main dining room can be con gured in multiple ways for events

how Boisdale Of Canary Wharf is bringing food, drink and music together for a packed festive season

by Jon Massey

Where better than Boisdale Of Canary Wharf to soak up festive cheer and celebrate with friends and colleagues this Christmas? The bar, restaurant and music venue boasts a wealth of exible spaces designed to handle parties of between 12 and 500, depending on need.

The 2025 o ering sees dates in December packed with Festive Lunch shows from Stephen Tri tt or Frank Cognoscenti singing the songs of Frank Sinatra. There are also plenty of Festive Dinners where Ol Blue Eyes will be joined by Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr as The De nitive Rat Pack returns to the Wharf for a seasonal blast.

The venue has four private dining rooms featuring paintings by Scottish artist Jack Vettriano, images by Paul Gauguin, a tribute to Johnnie Walker Blue Label and rare press photographs from the 1960s and 70s.

It’s a re ection of Boisdale as a whole, which brings together Scottish tradition, British ingredients, jazz, soul, swing, cigars and whisky in a glorious cocktail for the senses.

The restaurant’s chefs have been busy, creating three set menus for festive dining.

The rst includes three courses for £64.50 and boasts starters such as Duck Liver And Armagnac Parfait or CiderBaked Beetroots with Wiltshire Goats Cheese followed by mains of Norfolk Bronze Turkey

Wrapped In Parma Ham or Smoked Haddock, Seatrout And Prawn Fishcake. This is topped o with Black Cherry And Amaretto Christmas Pudding or Hazlenut And Praline Baked Cheesecake.

Menu two introduces the likes of steak and venison into the mix for £74.50 per head while the Christmas Signature Menu costs £110 and includes a Roast Dry Aged Chateaubriand for the table to share.

Boisdale has long been a specialist in large-scale parties, regularly hosting extensive events across its two oors, terrace and cigar lounge.

The venue is able to o er full event management as well as bespoke live entertainment for up to 250 people seated or 500 standing.

Those seeking more information can send an email to events@boisdale- cw.co.uk or call 020 7715 5818. Private dining spaces can be booked online.

key details

Boisdale Of Canary Wharf is located above Cabot Place with views over Cabot Square from its terrace and upper oor.

The venue is a short walk from all three of Canary Wharf’s stations, connecting it to the wider east London area and beyond. It also bene ts from a late licence allowing organisers maximum exibility. For more information go to boisdale.co.uk

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is one of the largest venues in Canary Wharf

Maximum capacity for a standing reception at London Museum Docklands when combining two of the venue’s larger spaces

by Jon Massey

There’s the opportunity to visit the galleries after hours, specially curated party packages and space for up to 900 guests. London Museum Docklands has unveiled its Light Up The Night festive o ering for 2025. Located in a Grade I listed warehouse on West India Quay, the venue is a space like no other.

Formerly used to protect and shelter imported sugar, today the building showcases and celebrates London’s maritime history. In addition to its role in preserving the past and educating visitors about this remarkable aspect of the capital’s story, by night the fairy lights go on and the place transforms into an events venue.

a place to host

Partnering with caterer Bovingdons, the museum has created a range of specially curated packages designed to suit a wide range of celebrations – from more informal receptions to sit-down dinners.

Guests can be welcomed with drinks, including Prosecco and winter cocktails, as they enjoy the opportunity to tour the venue’s galleries after hours.

a trio of spaces

London Museum Docklands has three exible spaces for events organisers to consider:

● The Wilberforce Room o ers the rustic charm of a 19th century warehouse with exposed brick walls and has capacity of up to 350 for a standing reception and 240 for a dinner.

● The Riverside Room features its own private entrance and terrace, accommodating up to 300 guests reception-style and 200 for a dinner.

● For larger receptions, the Muscovado Hall can host up to 700 guests – or 900 when combined with the Riverside Room – and o ers views over the water to Canary Wharf.

how London Museum Docklands is all set to welcome festive events in its Grade I listed dockside warehouse

Celebrate surrounded by history after hours in a riverside museum

party packages

Two options are available – the Standard Festive Package and the Luxury Festive Package, which features unlimited drinks, upgraded menus, and a four-hour DJ set. All packages include LED uplighting, stylish furniture and a cloakroom service.

Bespoke upgrades such as themed actors, historical talks, tours and table curiosities (objects from the museum’s collection) are also available.

Prices start from £107 per person for drinks receptions, £137pp for food stations and £293pp for dinners. All prices quoted exclude VAT.

they say

“Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a full-scale corporate celebration, London Museum Docklands delivers a festive experience that leaves a lasting impression.”

nd out more

To enquire about booking a Christmas party at the London Museum Docklands, contact the team via venuehire@museumo ondon.org.uk or call 020 7814 5789 to discuss the options and secure a date.

key details

London Museum Docklands is located in Hertsmere Road on West India Quay. The closest public transport is West India Quay DLR station, although the venue is also within easy walking distance of Canary Wharf’s stops.

Go to museumo ondon.org.uk f or more information or to arrange a festive booking

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Read all about it: Magazine’s Christmas parties are returning to Greenwich Peninsula - Page 32

SCAN THIS CODE TO MAKE A BOOKING

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS

Nestled on the banks of the Thames, The Gun offers a rich blend of historic charm and modern comfort, making it the perfect venue for any Christmas event big or small. Our beautiful spaces include private dining rooms for intimate celebrations, riverside views and – new for this season – a stunning, heated garden marquee with its own pizza oven Book now to avoid missing out

Ex VAT price per head for Urban Funfair’s shared parties, available to groups of eight or more this December

The Urban Funfair Christmas Party is available both as a shared experience for smaller organisations or for exclusive hire on Greenwich Peninsula

welcoming the

how

the

Urban Funfair Christmas

what is it?

by Jon Massey

Sat across the Thames from Canary Wharf, events venue

Magazine London o ers organisers the opportunity to host festive celebrations at scale. Able to accommodate up to 2,000 guests for a standing reception, the purpose-built facility o ers dramatic views of the river and the London skyline and a wide range of options for businesses and organisations of all sizes.

what’s on in 2025?

Events specialist Smart Parties will be hosting the Urban Funfair Christmas Party at Magazine London this December – available as both a shared experience on selected dates or for exclusive hire, with only a limited number of slots remaining.

Party is ideal for businesses of all sizes in 2025

The venue has been reimagined as an indoor funfair complete with vibrant carnival decorations, a central carousel bar, dodgems, entertainment and a stunning dining space overlooking the Thames and the Wharf.

where is it?

Magazine London is a few minutes’ walk from North Greenwich Tube station on Greenwich Peninsula, placing it one stop from Canary Wharf and about 10 minutes from London Bridge and Stratford.

tell me about these shared parties

Taking place on December 6 and 17, the events are ideal for groups of eight or more who want to soak up the festive atmosphere with others. The doors open at 6.30pm to a drinks and canape reception

with dinner at 8pm. Then there are fairground rides and a DJ with a full disco from 10pm until midnight.

Tickets include a two-course seated banquet crafted by catering partner Moving Venue and dessert and co ee stations to follow. Drinks ow throughout the night with ne wines, Champagne and chilled beers available to purchase. Tickets start at £120 plus VAT.

what about exclusive hire?

For companies and organisations seeking something bespoke, the Urban Funfair is available for exclusive hire. Options include tailored menus from Moving Venue and total exibility on entertainment and theme backed up by cutting edge sound and lighting facilities.

Only a limited number of exclusive hire slots remain in December and early enquiries are advised.

why choose Smart Parties?

Smart Parties are part of the award-winning Smart Group, experts in curating unforgettable events. With decades of experience, their team combines innovative catering, spectacular venues, and seamless planning to deliver Christmas parties that guests talk about long after the last song.

key details

Bookings for shared parties and exclusive hire can be made online or by calling the team on 020 7836 1033 for more details

Go to smartparties.co.uk

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Enjoy Wintermas with purple velvet and black canals at Phantom Peak this festive season - Page 34

The venue boasts an extensive selection of wines, beers and spirits

CHRISTMAS EVENTS & PRIVATE HIRE

A Proper Docklands Christmas

With summer behind us and the inbox refilling fast, it’s time to get festive plans locked in. The Fox Excel offers flexible spaces, great food, proper drinks, and a team that knows how to throw a party, whether it’s a full takeover or something more low-key.

Located in the heart of the Royal Docks, just minutes from Canary Wharf and the Excel Centre, it’s the easiest decision you’ll make this side of Christmas.

Private rooms to full venue takeovers

Festive menus, DJs, drinks & more

Unique warehouse setting with real warmth

Easy access via DLR & Elizabeth Line

SEPTEMBER OFFER

Receive a complimentary cocktail reception when you book a Christmas event before the 30th of September

how Phantom Peak has unveiled its latest Wintermas season, ideal for festive bashes

by Jon Massey

The festive demigod is back. Open-world immersive experience

Phantom Peak – a complete mountain town contained within a warehouse and its grounds at Canada Water – is all set for the return of Father Platmas as it launches its latest Wintermas season.

If you truly want to treat the team to a festive celebration with a difference, then this multiple award-winning show is the solution. Now in its third year, the installation and its townsfolk have welcomed tens of thousands of visitors – keeping things fresh with new storylines and sets unveiled each quarter, always staying true to the glory of town founder Jonas and celebrated town mascot the platypus.

For Wintermas – opening November 20 – the plot is simple. Father Platmas is on his way, but will he be welcomed with open

arms or has the all-powerful town administration company Jonaco finally come up with a scheme to capture our hero?

As the press release says: “Who cares? It’s not like it’s just a guy in a purple suit and a fake beard or anything. Make sure to visit them in his festive Wintermas grotto and take a spin of his wheel to win death prizes.”

And that’s Phantom Peak summed up. Anarchic, chaotic, creative, intriguing, mysterious and deeply, deeply silly.

Each visit begins with a theatrical opening in the old town square, before guests begin their four-hour adventure.

Visitors can then follow trails, uncover mysteries or simply enjoy the atmosphere while chewing the fat with the townsfolk who are all (well, mostly) happy to welcome tourists.

New for Wintermas 2025 is an expanded Thirsty Frontier Saloon, fully stocked with festive drinks such as egg nog, mulled wine, beers and cocktails. Grab a drink, enjoy the opening ceremony and

then embark on an expedition of exploration.

Visitors can expect a wide range of environments to discover with a western feel as well as an outdoor space with winding canals, a lake, a waterfall and a giant platypus named Phyllis.

Food and drinks are available throughout the shows. There are at least 10 trails to explore including plenty of scheming, murder and love, ensuring even repeat visits yield new secrets and surprises.

Early booking is advised, with standard tickets in November currently priced from £30. Those attending in groups can do so simply by booking into the same performance.

However, Phantom Peak also offers multiple options for party planners, with a range of hospitality spaces available to hire. The venue ca arrange food and drinks packages for guests in private spaces woven into the structure of the wider set as well.

Companies can also arrange exclusive hire of the whole venue

Phantom Peak’s bar will be serving up festive cocktails, egg nog and mulled wine for Wintermas

by arrangement, which can be used for presentations, parties and team building.

This might take the form of an entirely private show with staff able to explore Phantom Peak’s stories at their leisure.

key details

Phantom Peak is located a short walk from Canada Water station, one stop from Canary Wharf.

Its Wintermas season begins on November 20 with shows running on various dates until December 23 and then from December 26 until January 18.

To arrange group bookings or exclusive hire, you can email enquiries to the venue via contact@phantompeak.com. Go to phantompeak.com for more information or to make a booking

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Minutes of Squid Game-inspired challenges for players to take on at the Royal Docks attraction

how Squid Game: The Experience is ideal for seasonal celebrations with plenty of thrills and skills

by Jon Massey

Inspired by Net ix’s Korean smash hit, Squid Game: The Experience has landed in east London, fresh from its successes in New York, Sydney, Seoul and Madrid.

what happens?

Players are challenged to take on a series of games themed around the now iconic TV show. Participants will take on Red Light, Green Light, under the watchful eye of the giant Young-Hee doll.

They’ll also enter the Marbles Room to tackle a test of skill, strategy and precision, challenge their recall on the Memory Steps and compete in a battle of strength in Rope Game.

safety rst

While there’s plenty of adrenaline and tension on o er, Squid Game: The Experience o ers players the chance to show o their abilities without the life-or-death stakes shown on screen.

Instead the goal is to survive each challenge for a day of nail-biting wins, narrow defeats and plenty of camaraderie.

great for groups

The experience is ideal for groups and can accommodate parties of any size from 20 to 200. The games naturally lend themselves to team building,

with collaboration and competition under pressure at their core. Alternatively, it’s a place to blow o some steam and relax over the festive period.

more than the games Groups booked in are welcomed to the Koreanthemed Night Market before taking on the various challenges.

Here they will nd dedicated areas in which to regroup, plan and celebrate alongside food, cocktails and other refreshing beverages.

While the games last an hour, groups are free to remain in the Night Market to wind down after completing the contests.

Naturally Squid Game merchandise is also available for teams who’d like to purchase souvenirs.

key details

Squid Game: The Experience runs until January at Immerse LDN at Excel London in Royal Docks. Individual tickets start at £26 excluding booking fee. Groups of 20 or more should get in touch with the organiser via the online form on the experience’s website. For more information go to squidgameexperienceuk.com

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Winning and losing their marbles...

Squid Game: The Experience is located at Excel’s Immerse LDN, one stop from Canary Wharf at Custom House

Can you avoid the doll’s deadly gaze? step into the

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

BOOK YOUR at London Museum Docklands –a stunning Grade I listed warehouse on West India Quay, where history meets holiday magic

Host up to 1,500 guests for a sparkling reception or 240 for a festive sit-down dinner. All-inclusive packages from just £107+VAT pp (minimum numbers apply).

Whether you’re planning a corporate celebration or a more lowkey gathering, our unique riverside venue o ers the perfect blend of character, charm, and Christmas cheer!

Email: venuehire@londonmuseum.org.uk | Call: 020 7814 5789 Discover more: londonmuseum.org.uk/commercial/venue-hire