We live on the outskirts of the countrys capital city, yet how often do we take advantage of all it offers in the way of entertainment? Probably not often, so why not use January for a day up town...

THAMES BARRIER PARK

BACK in November, Londons new mayor, Ken Livingstone, opened the capitals first new riverside park for 50 years.

The 22-acre park is just north of the river, next to the impressive Thams Barrier.

It has a 400m sunken garden, a fountain which flows into the dock, a riverside promenade and a Pavilion of Remembrance which commemorates victims of war from the borough of Newham.

To find out more go to www.london.gov.uk

TEAMWORKS KARTING

A NEW indoor kart circuit has opened in Bishopsgate which offers karting for corporate events or childrens parties.

The hi-tech indoor karts have 270cc of power and the venue has a raised platform and television monitors so spectators can follow the action.

The asphalt racing tracks give good grip just as well as the course has some fast straights and challenging corners! Call 0870 900 3020.

LONDON AQUARIUM

The London Aquarium is still as popular as ever with tourists and has plenty to offer people who actually live in or near the city.

The modern tanks are arranged according to which ocean the species come from and contemporary lighting allows you to have a good look at the creatures on show.

If you really like your fish it is now possible to buy an annual ticket.

Later on this year visitors will also be able to book via the Internet, but for now you can just get a preview of whats on show at www.londonaquarium.co.uk

GOLDEN HINDE

CHILDREN and adults will be given a chance to step back in time and find out what it was like to be a 16th century sailor on January 27, by spending a night aboard the Golden Hinde.

This is by reservation only on 08700 118700.

WINTER BEARFEST

IF bears are more your thing, you will want to rush along to the Winter Bearfest, which will be held in Kensington Town Hall on February 25.

This festival of bears, with more than 150 stands, is a treat for anyone who likes collecting the furry toys.

There will be old and new bears to buy, as well as books and jewellery featuring the cuddly creature.

Call 01273 697974 for details of times and prices.

LONDON CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW

If you like classic cars make a date to go along to Alexandra Palace on January 17 and 18 for the London Classic Motor Show.

The event will include hundreds of vehicles ranging from classic and vintage to custom and American cars. Call 01296 631181.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

GERRARD Street and Leicester Square are the places to be on January 28 for the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Members of the Chinese community will be entering the Year of the Snake with dragons, dancing and music in the streets.

To find out more call 020 7287 1118.

JEWISH MUSEUM

WHAT Remains is a new exhibition at the Jewish Museum until April 22 featuring photographs by the award-winning Sam Tanner illustrating the Jewish community in East London over two years.

The display is enhanced with the museums collection to highlight the richness of East End Jewish Hertiage. Exhibits include Yiddish newspapers and a Sabbath table from an East End Jewish home.

Call 020 8349 1143.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

JANUARY 6 sees the start of a new exhibition at the gallery, featuring 35 hand-coloured etchings by the Dighton family, one of the most notable artistic families of the Regency period. Call 020 7306 0055 for details.