Protein Studios

Immersive theatre company Secret Theatre are pitching up in Shoreditch this winter with The Nutcracker Noir, but you don't have to fork out for a ticket to sample some of the festive magic on offer at its starting point. The Merry & More Mart at Protein Studios is a sister experience that makes for an atmospheric way to pick up some Christmassy trinkets.  The Mart is packed with independent artisans selling stuff perfect for gifting. Expect London-exclusive candles from Burns by Burns, luxurious Soapsmith soaps, Novice Kitchen’s spicy condiments, and handmade goodies from Mission Kitchen members. Four-legged friends aren’t forgotten either, with Santa Paws offering pooch-friendly toys and drinks. Adding serious food cred, award-winning Utter Waffle takes over for their first East London residency, serving indulgent, entirely gluten-free creations. Warm drinks, from Dubai hot chocolates to mulled wine and gingerbread lattes, help keep the chill at bay. You can also enjoy a festive soundtrack and big visuals to really get you into the Christmas spirit.

This lavish seasonal dinner show from immersive company Secret Theatre offers an ‘outrageous’ banquet combined with five explorable rooms and music, performance and dance that tell something approximate to the story of Tchaichovsky’s immortal seasonal favouite ballet The Nutcracker. Tickets start at ‘just’ £48 for bar seats, but if you actually want to eat you’re looking at £180-plus.