What’s On London: Winter Wonderland Review 2018

Wondering whether the Christmas market and fair at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is still worth a visit? We check out this year’s offering…

Lighting up the London skyline every year in a flashing neon, Winter Wonderland is an institution and essential part of London’s Christmas event calendar. Delve past the bratwurst stands and fairground rides and you’ll find some fabulous shows on offer that are twinkly gems of delight. 

Last night’s VIP launch party saw everyone from Robbie and Ayda Williams to Jason Donovan to Spencer Matthews to Lottie Moss enjoying the festive spirit. Open from today, we take a look at this year’s highlights.

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Winter Wonderland 2018 Highlights

SEE

If you need a break from the fairground rides, check out Backyard Cinema’s latest creation ‘The Snowman Experience’. Billed as a ‘multi-roomed, multi-sensory, immersive cinematic adventure’, the classic Christmas story is brought to life with a journey through giant replica sets of the film.

All ages will enjoy a trip round the Magical Ice Kingdom, which has taken on a ‘Secret Forest’ theme this year. It’s made up of a series of mythical creatures and woodland animals created from more than 500 tonnes of ice and snow in -10 degree temperates – so wrap up warm! Feeling inspired? Try out one of the ice sculpting workshops, a new offering for 2018.  Also new to Winter Wonderland’s ice realm is a performance of Peter Pan on Ice, bringing J.M.Barrie’s well-loved story to life.

Long-time favourite The Giant Observation Wheel has been given a modern-day update: visitors will be able to ask Google Assistant for a hot chocolate, to make it snow for a quick selfie or even play a festive song during their ride. Not one for thrill-seekers, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed fairground experience you’ll get a lovely view of London from the top.

And the classics? They’re back too, including the UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink, Zippos Christmas Circus and over 150 chalets in the Christmas Market.

EAT AND DRINK

There is no shortage of watering holes at Winter Wonderland, nor is Winter Wonderland a place lacking in the promise of ‘German’ foodstuffs and drinks, but avoid the below-par offerings and head for the German Kraft tent (/winter greenhouse) for a really excellent beer or a mulled gin (officially the most sensible way to keep warm).

Thor’s Tipi is also a nice snuggly spot, with a roaring log fire, warm blankets and tasty hot chocolate, and if you’re a cheese fan the Mooney’s Halloumi stall does some great halloumi fries

Details

When? Thursday 22nd November – January 6th, apart from Christmas Day, when it will be closed.

Times? 10am–10pm daily

Details? Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is FREE to enter but some shows and rides are ticketed.

Please check the website for more details and online booking: www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

READ MORE: The Best London Christmas Markets 2018