Christmas
Staying in London over Christmas?
Many students stay in London over the festive period, and we hope that this information will give you lots of options for making the most out of your time if you will be staying here. Don't worry about staying here on your own, as Queen Mary has arranged events for you to meet up with other QM students during the festive period.
Most shops remain open on Christmas Eve (24th December) and many re-open on Boxing day (26th December), although most will be closed on Christmas Day (25th December) so make sure that you have all the food you need before then. Many shops also close on New Year's Day (1st January).
The College will be closed from Friday 23rd December to Monday 2nd January inclusive, although if you are living in QM halls of residence you will still have access to staff through the Mile End Residences reception and the College Security Service. The Advice and Counselling Service will be closed during College Christmas closure from 3.30pm on Thursday 22 December 2011 to 10am on Tuesday 3 January 2012.
Events at Queen Mary
Student and Campus Services at QM have a full programme of events over the festive period. Events are taking place on Christmas Eve and all day on Christmas Day, for you to get together with other QM students to enjoy the festivities. Click here for more information and online booking.
International Students House
International Students House (ISH) is an organisation in central London with a well established history of providing events and support for international students in London. Meet other international students in London for Christams lunch and a walk in Regent's park on Christmas Day, or join one of the trips and activities running over the festive period. Click here for more information and booking details.
Stay with a UK resident in their home
HOST is a voluntary organisation that arranges for international students to stay with UK residents in their homes. This is a great way for you to experience how people live their lives in the UK, spend time with UK residents in their home and sample their food and traditions. The homestay visits are free, and QM pays the application fee to HOST for you, so the only costs you will need to pay for are your travel and a small gift for your homestay host. Click here for more information and booking details.
Free events and activities
There are loads of events and activities going on in London all year - many of which are completely free of charge and are open over the festive period. Click here for details.
Christmas events in London
London has many festive events and things to see over the festive period - many of which are free of charge. Christmas markets, Christmas lights, ice skating, Christmas fairs, Christmas music and carols...find out more here.
Getting around London during the festive period
Apart from Christmas Day (25th December 2011), transport usually continues to operate in London although there is often a reduced service or timetable changes. Travel on tubes and buses is free on New Year's Eve at certain times. Click here for more information.
Looking after yourself during the Christmas break
If you are struggling to cope over the Christmas break, please consider the following options:
The Samaritans provides confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, every day, including Christmas Day, to those experiencing despair, distress or suicidal feelings. Call 08457 90 90 90 or email jo@samaritans.org
Beat, the eating disorder charity, has produced some tips and advice for Coping at Christmas for people affected by eating disorders.
Read our self help pages for further information on different issues you might be facing, and for sources of support.
If you need urgent support or help over Christmas please see our emergency out of hours contacts including security and the residences site office on campus and the nearest Accident and Emergency hospital department and NHS walk in centre.
