Winter Wonderland started life in 2007 as a beautiful outdoor ice rink in Hyde Park with a series of Christmas markets, and has grown over the years to become London’s ultimate destination for Christmas fun.
Every year, we excitedly await November to arrive because it signals the start of Christmas and of course, for Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland adding even more festivity to London. Since 2007, 15 million visitors have marvelled at the delights of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland as the annual festival returns.
While it is the same Winter Wonderland we’ve grown to love, each season we find new treasures to discover. This year is particularly special because Hyde Park is celebrating 10 years of Winter Wonderland so prepare to be dazzled by lots of new festive activities to join the old favourites – they’ll be sure to get you into the Christmas spirit!
Winter Wonderland will open at 5pm on 18th November for six weeks of festive fun. Thereafter, the gates will be open 10am – 10pm every day, apart from Christmas Day, until 2nd January 2017.
Where to Eat & Drink
Mr.Fogg’s Pop-up Cocktail Bar
The famous Mr.Fogg’s graces Winter Wonderland with their presence for a wonderfully curated pop-up.
They will serve the same standard of sumptuous World Class cocktails that you’d find in their swanky Mayfair location. The décor will match caliber of their creations complete with Victorian-inspired accents that will transport guest into an incredibly Dickensian Christmas.
Swiss Chalet
If a trip to the Swiss Alps isn’t in the calendar for this year, play a little make believe at Winter Wonderland’s Swiss Chalet. This Tyrolean-style eatery serves all your favorite Swiss delicacies and sharing platters. It is one of the only spots with table service and a proper sit-down meal environment. Treat yourself to some time out at the Swiss Chalet.
Christmas Markets
When’s the last time you enjoyed some mulled wine with a Nutella-filled crepe? Probably last year at Winter Wonderland; and luckily for you, it’s about to be back in your life. If you want to try a bit of everything without committing to a full-on meal, head over to the Christmas Markets. Here you will be surrounded by the likes of hot chocolates, hot toddies, warm pretzels, hot cider and more.
Bar Ice
Drink yourself to warmth and joy in this truly arctic experience. During your 30-minute long Bar Ice session you will drink all the cocktails your heart desires out of your own unique ice glass. And don’t worry, you’ll receive a warming cloak upon entry. Have a ball in this charming ice palace.
What to Do
The Nutcracker on Ice
Following sold-out seasons at the Royal Albert Hall and several world tours, The Imperial Ice Stars, will bring their dazzling production of The Nutcracker on Ice to the UK’s no.1 Christmas destination.
In a show especially created for Winter Wonderland, get ready to experience 60 minutes of pure joy and ice magic. As midnight strikes on Christmas Eve, a young girl’s Christmas present comes to life, sweeping her to a world of enchantment and wonder where she meets many colourful characters including the Mouse King, the Nutcracker Prince and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Ice Skating
Skate day and night surrounded by 100,000 enchanting Christmas lights. Make your away around the central Victorian bandstand as you glide past Hyde Park’s winter trees.
Live music from the bandstand provides a backdrop to your skate throughout the day. Or if skating’s not your thing, enjoy a hot chocolate or festive drink from the spectator’s platform.
Christmas Markets
Do some untraditional Christmas shopping in a traditional Christmas setting at Winter Wonderland’s markets. 200 fairy-lit Bavarian style wooden chalets outline a walkway into the magical festival. Not only can you find unique gifts from handmade crafts to accessories, there are also some tasty treats and warming drinks.
Circus Shows
If you’re not into the cold and would rather keep inside, a Zippos Circus show is the option for you. Warm and comfortable seating in a theatre style atmosphere makes the MEGA DOME a perfect break from the outdoor markets and rides. Whether you’re checking out the family-friendly Zippos Christmas Circus or the contemporary thrill show Cirque Berserk, there is a show for all audiences.
Magical Ice Kingdom
The largest of it’s kind in the UK; the Magical Ice Kingdom is exactly how it sounds, magical. This special spot is somewhere to bring friends and family of all ages. It’s the picture perfect attraction for everyone to enjoy.
The Giant Wheel
Perhaps you are looking for a little privacy with your loved one. In such case, take a spin around the Giant Wheel. This Winter Wonderland staple lets you soar 60 metres into the London sky from the comfort of an enclosed pod. Gaze over 360-degree views of Winter Wonderland and London.
Rides
Unleash the kid in you with one of Winter Wonderland’s signature rides. From adrenaline inducers to children’s rides you have an unlimited variety. Don’t miss out on your chance to ‘never grow up’ this year.
