Our Guide to Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland is back! For those of you who don't know it, well, it's a little surprising seeing you here. After all, you clicked on Our Guide To Winter Wonderland. However, we're here to help. So here's a little refresher. For six weeks of the year, London's Hyde Park is transformed into a wondrous wonderland. A winter wonderland, to be exact. Full of fun festive festivities, attractions, and other forms of Holiday entertainment. If you've never been, it's something you have to experience at least once. It's nearly Christmas after all, and what better to get you in the mood than a bona fide wonderland of winter. Anyway, without further ado, here's our guide to Winter Wonderland.
Zippos Christmas Circus
Zippo's chain of circuses is rather famous in this United Kingdom, so it's no wonder they top the bill at London's biggest Christmas extravaganza. Their daytime show is an incredibly popular treat for the whole family. With a mixture of aerial acts, skilled jugglers and colourful clowns, the year’s show promises a feast for the eyes and for the ears.
Showtimes: 12:30, 14:00 and 17:00, with a 15:30 show on selected days
Bar Ice
As you walk into this stunning arctic environment, you’ll notice that everything is crafted from ice: furniture, sculptures, even the walls. Ice. Ice. Baby. Anyway, there's a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to choose from, with one cocktail included in the entry price. Mulled wine too, of course. Nothing beats the warm embrace of a spiced mulled wine on a chilly December day. Where do you think you are? Britain, that's where. Speaking of warming, wear thick socks though, as it can get pretty chilly in there. Because it's all ice...ice. Baby. Session times: Sessions are 20 minutes long, and can be booked up until 21:20
Giant Observation Wheel
This gentle ride presents the perfect opportunity to take in the sights of not only Winter Wonderland, but of wider London too. On a clear day it’s possible to see for miles or, if you’d prefer to visit at night, you can take in the twinkling lights of the city. And this year, it's taller than ever apparently. So, really tall then. Really tall. In the mood for some added luxury? Book a private pod - or go VIP because you're worth it, and see the sights in style. Ride duration: Each ‘flight’ lasts 12-15 mins, or 20 mins with a VIP pod. Last flight at 21:45
The Magical Ice Kingdom
Created from over 500 tonnes of ice and snow, the Magical Ice Kingdom is a kingdom of ice. Bound to excite both young and old, this year's theme is Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol. Take any Scrouges you know and hit them with some Christmas truth. You've never seen Dicken's tale until you've seen it unfold in a world of ice and snow. Plus you get to be there, which is pretty cool too. Cool, like ice.
Session times: Book your 30 minute walk-through slot in advance, last admission 21:00
Ice Skating
Skate your heart out under a canopy of sparkling lights, at the largest open-air ice-rink in the UK. Whether you’re whizzing around with your friends or taking a romantic glide with loved ones, it’s fun for everyone and there’s live music from Hyde Park’s Victorian bandstand too. Alternatively, there’s a spectator's platform where you can enjoy hot chocolate and people watch. You know, if you're too scared to go yourself. Opening times: Daily from 10:00-22:00
Mr. Men and Little Miss - The Show
Interesting fact for you. Did you know that Mr. Men have been around for nearly half a century? We didn't. And now you can appreciate them all a little more with this hilarious live show. You'll see all your favourite characters you've nearly forgotten from your childhood. It's already earned critical acclaim from its run at Edinburgh Fringe, so go see it for yourself! Opening times: Daily from 11:00
Santa Land
Explore Father Christmas' grotto: visit his workshop, meet some of his elves or ride the Santa Express. This is a truly festive experience, with Christmas rides for the little ones, games and eateries - as well as a gift for kids (who’ve been good).
Cirque Berserk
This year’s show is called Legend, a daredevil display of acrobatics and agility promising gasps aplenty. In a mysterious realm where air, earth, fire and water meet. Mythical creatures confront malevolent forces. Christmas has never been so unusual. The show's spectacular finale is worth the price of admission alone. Session times: 19:00, 20:00 and 21:00
Food and drink
Whether you need to warm up fast, have a little rest or get a quick energy boost, at Winter Wonderland you’re never far from something delicious to eat or drink. Sit down for a full meal, grab a quick bite from a stall or have a festive drink – there’s something on offer for everyone.
Rides and games
There are over 100 rides and games on offer, ranging from children’s rides to rollercoasters, fun houses and thrill rides. New this year is the Munich Looping, the world’s largest portable rollercoaster. Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping, heart-racing festive fun with all the family.
Christmas Market
Visit some of the 200 stalls to browse handicrafts, candles, decorations and more. If you’re visiting at night, you’ll see the fairy lights adorning the wooden chalets - a truly beautiful sight, sure to win over any Scrooge! Looking for more Christmas events to get you in the yuletide mood? Check out our guide to all the best Christmas markets in London this year.