If you’re planning a festive day out in London, Winter Wonderland should be at the top of your itinerary.
Every year between November and January, London’s Hyde Park is transformed into a kid’s (and adult’s) festive haven, with fairground rides, Christmas markets, an ice rink, and delicious dining. This top Christmas destination has something for all ages, making it a perfect day out for family, couples and friends.
Our guide will help you prepare for your fun-filled day at Winter Wonderland. From activities and events to getting there by train, read on to start planning.
Where is Hyde Park Winter Wonderland?
Winter Wonderland is in Hyde Park, in the Borough of Westminster. It’s a short tube journey from Central London and near popular attractions like Big Ben and the London Eye.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s address is: Hyde Park, London, SW7 1NR.
Winter Wonderland is a popular event that often sells out during busy periods. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets in advance.
Off-peak times (like mornings and weekdays) usually have free entry – though you’ll still need to book your tickets beforehand. Once in the park, the rides and activities are an additional fee.
Winter Wonderland is open daily from 10:00-22:00, except Christmas Day.
Things to do at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to make a day of your trip to Winter Wonderland – or even a weekend in London.
Rides and games
The Winter Wonderland fairground is one of the top nostalgic things to do in London. From thrilling rollercoasters to nail-biting drop towers, funhouses to ghost trains, there’s something for everyone. Here are just some of the rides:
• Munich Looping – the largest transportable quintuple-loop coaster, made famous at Oktoberfest.
• Euro Coaster – a track full of twists and turns, and one of Winter Wonderland’s longest-standing rides.
• The Hangover – an 85-metre drop tower displaying some of the best views in London.
• Après-Ski Party Funhouse – a multi-level funhouse with a ski theme.
• Racing Coaster – a car-themed coaster for little petrolheads.
• Christmas Tree Ride – a kid-friendly rotating Christmas tree ride with gently bobbing giant baubles.
• Haunted Mansion – a traditional ghost train filled with spooky surprises.
• Helter Skelter – a spiralling slide around a classic lighthouse figurine.
Christmas markets
If your festive itinerary includes visiting Christmas markets in London, Winter Wonderland has some of the best.
Housed in charming, traditional wooden chalets, the markets sell everything from homemade soap and jewellery to delicious snacks and treats. Visit at quieter times for a less crowded shopping experience.
Bavarian Village
Bavarian Village is the best place to dine at Winter Wonderland, with outdoor seating, live entertainment and plenty of food and drink options. The village is free to visit during the day. It gets busier in the evening; after 5pm you’ll need to book an evening package to secure a table.
Ice Rink
The Winter Wonderland ice rink is one of the best places to go ice skating in London. Featuring a Victorian bandstand strung with sparkling fairy lights, this charming outdoor skating rink will give you that festive feeling. Skate to your heart’s content and snap some photos, then hang up your skates and enjoy deluxe pigs in blankets with a delicious dipping sauce.
Zippos Christmas Circus
Rest your legs and watch world-class entertainment at Zippos Christmas Circus. The show features circus acts from top performers, including clowning from veteran Phillip Walker, a contortionist, and the Bulgarian ‘quick change’ duo Stefaneli.
The show lasts approximately 45 minutes and must be booked in advance, at an additional fee.
Tips for enjoying Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a fun day out for the family. Here’s how you can make the most out of your trip:
• Visit during off-peak times like mornings and weekdays for a quieter experience. You’ll also save money as morning tickets (usually between 10:00 and 12:00) are free, and you can stay in the park for as long as you like.
• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a busy attraction, so we recommend using public transport to get there. It also means you can enjoy some mulled cider without having to worry about driving.
• Bring a small bag or rucksack, as there are no lockers to leave them in before rides. If you plan on riding coasters with loops, stash your valuables in zip-up pockets.
• Create an itinerary and book ahead for extras like ice skating and the circus so you don’t miss out on the day.
Food and drink
There are many dining and drinks options available at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, from mouth-watering bites at the Street Food Village to sit-down meals in Bavarian Village.
• Bar Ice is one of the UK’s only ice bars, where everything from the furniture to the décor is made of ice.
• The Street Food Village serves a variety of cuisines and festive dishes, from Yorkshire pudding wraps to pigs in blankets.
• The Fire Pit is a vibrant cocktail bar where visitors can toast marshmallows and stay cosy around the fire.
• The Sleigh-By serves tasty street food and is an ideal place for a pint.
• Bavarian Village is an outdoor dining area with live entertainment and a merry atmosphere.
• Explorer’s Rest is an alpine bar with live acoustic performances from upcoming artists.
Places to stay around Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park provides a range of accommodation options for all budgets, just a stone’s throw from Winter Wonderland.
Family-friendly options include Best Western Mornington Hotel, The Pride of Paddington and BeiRoom Hyde Park Apartments.
If you’re on a budget, book the Smart Hyde Park Inn Hostel, Astor Hyde Park Hostel or Berkeley Court Hotel. Or for a luxurious stay, check in at Roseate House London or the pet-friendly Claverley Court.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland accessibility
Winter Wonderland aims to provide an accessible environment, with temporary trackways covering the grass and accessible toilets. There are also ramps and handrails to catering areas, and hearing loops in the circus and ice show.
As one of London’s top Christmas attractions for kids, Winter Wonderland is also pushchair-friendly, with dedicated buggy parks for certain shows. If you need to warm up a bottle or have some quiet time, the Santaland Chill Space is a quiet area for young families.
