Happy New Year, folks. January is here and the blues may be hitting you hard after a month of cheese board eating and prosecco guzzling. So, we got in touch with DesignMyNight to find out the best ways to beat your blues. Get ready to glide down the Thames on a Silent Disco Boat Party, drink like the Shelby family in Manchester and sip cocktails laced with chocolate at an indulgent pop-up, for the ultimate start to 2019...
things to do jan 2019 - heat
The Chocolate Cocktail Club, London
Cadbury selection boxes, tubs of Quality Street, those mini Bounty bars that nobody wants… Christmas is the time for indulging in all things chocolate, but that doesn't mean it has to end now that January has come out to play. The Chocolate Cocktail Club is coming to London this month and it's sure to put a smile on your face. Garnished with gooey brownies and harbouring punny names (like the Chocotini), the cocktails here are extraordinary and you can even try a chocolate beer if you're into that kinda thing.
Disco54 Launch Party, London
Studio 54? It was a famous nightclub in New York famed for its wild antics back in 1977 but luckily for you lot, you can experience it present day (well, kind of). Disco 54 is opening in London this month and DesignMyNight can get you exclusive access to the launch party. Themed around the notorious hotspot, you can expect a red carpet entrance and complimentary prosecco and canapes. Not shutting off the music until 3am, it's advisable to wear your dancing shoes to this decadent soiree.
Silent Sounds Boat Party, London
Sure, it's cold, but being out in the fresh air has tonnes of benefits and we're about to add another one to the list. Silent Sounds Boat Party is hosting its first event of 2019 at the end of the month and it's sure to cure you of your January blues. Cruising down the Thames with three different DJ sets to choose from, you'll be dancing the night away as you glide past the capital's most iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge (which actually opens for you as you go past).
Peaky Blinders Bar, Manchester
We might be left in the dark for a release date for season 5 of Peaky Blinders but here to keep you going is a bar in Manchester that's themed around the popular programme. Only open since December, this basement bar is all low lighting and mahogany touches, and the cocktails aren't too shabby either with something for everyone on the menu.
Chicken Wing Crawl, London
The humble bar crawl has taken a back seat this January. Why? Because we've just found out that there's a crawl dedicated to chicken wings, and it's happening right here in London. You'll start your finger-licking journey in East London, making your way to three different establishments that are known for their fiery wings and secret sauces. Lasting 2.5 hours, a drink is included in the £29 price tag to this momentous event.
Gospeloke, London
You might have belted out Fairytale of New York and Last Christmas a few more times than you care to mention, but your singing prowess is required once more. Gospeloke is one of the most unique events there is and it will see you singing with a 15 strong gospel choir. Pick from a list of smashing hits and own the stage as you sing the likes of Bon Jovi Livin' on a Prayer to a happy-go-lucky crowd.
The Meet, London
Full on vegan, flexitarian or avid meat eater? You need to give The Meet in Clapham a whirl. This all vegan restaurant is raking up 5 star reviews since opening with bourbon, maple and Sriracha glazed cauliflower florets topped with 'blue cheese' and beastly burgers dominating the menu. We know we're a only a few days into Jan, but one visit to this place and you'll be considering going plant-based for the month.
Sounds Familiar, Birmingham
Arguing over Monopoly and losing your cool over Pictionary are part and parcel at Christmas, but the fun and games aren't over just yet. Sounds Familiar has found its way to Birmingham and it's one of the funnest things you can do this January. From Katy Perry to Bowie, your music knowledge will be put to the test to win crazy prizes. With a fun time party atmosphere and lots of dancing on tables, you're in for a night to remember.
The Irn-Bru Carnival, Glasgow
Guess who's back, back again. No, it's not Eminem. The Irn-Bru Carnival (also known as Europe's biggest indoor funfair) has returned to Glasgow and it's got over 60 rides and attractions to keep you entertained, alongside an inflatable play area that's adult-friendly.
Sky Garden, London
If you're trying to steer clear of the booze this month, we've got just the thing. Sky Garden is one of London's best rooftop bars but DesignMyNight can get you exclusive access to the foliage-filled space any morning in January, and your £5 ticket includes a pastry and a steaming cup of coffee. So, what are you waiting for? Book a ticket, set your alarm and start your day with stunning scenes of the capital.
Vegan Fry Up, London
To celebrate Veganuary, by CHLOE. has launched 'The Full Brekkie', which is a delicious vegan version of the British classic Full English. It includes Maple Carrot Bacon, Jackfruit Sausage, Scrambled Tofu, Smoky Cowboy Beans, Roasted Plum Tomatoes, Shiitake Mushrooms and a Toasted Buttered Vegan English Muffin. De-li-cious. Munch on this until the end of January for a mere £11.50!
Grab A Lactofree Coffee, London
Another way to steer clear of the booze but still catch up with friends over a drink is to pop into a Costa Coffee for a Lactofree hot drink. Costa are the first coffee shop chain on the high-street to offer Lactofree milk (which is regular dairy milk with the lactose molecules removed) to it's customers. Mmmm.
For more information on what’s on in London and across the UK, visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Instagram and Facebook; @DesignMyNight.