What is it?
Housed in a vast, gorgeous Victorian gothic former Town Hall, Battersea Arts Centre is a much-loved South London landmark. It's got strong links with the local community – not least because it's a beaut of a venue to get married in. But it's definitely worth travelling for, thanks to its strong line-up of shows and laidback bohemian atmosphere. You'll find comedy, experimental theatre and performance here, spread across a series of atmospheric spaces with artfully-crumbling plasterwork, as well as plenty of places to relax and mingle.
Why go?
For the shows, of course! Under current artistic director Tarek Iskander, it hosts big, bold shows by emerging names and established experimental players: the family Christmas shows are especially magical, often making use of this sprawling venue's many spaces. But you could equally pop in for a drink or two: it's a venue with a constantly festival air, thanks to its cheap tickets and a convivial bar that offers a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
Don't miss:
The intricate details of this space deserve a closer look: especially the bee mosaics of the foyer floor, a tribute to the lavender fields that used to fill Battersea.
When to visit:
Tom's Bar is open daily from 9.30pm-4.30pm, and til late on show evenings.
Ticket info:
BAC shows are ticketed individually via its website.
Time Out tip:
Skip the usual panto and make BAC's festive show your new Christmas tradition, for all of the joy with none of the kitsch.