Currently in only its fourth year, Winter Wonderland has firmly become one of London’s top attractions each Christmas. Held in Hyde Park each winter, this year’s event runs from 19th November 2010 to 2nd January 2011. Entry is completely free, although tickets must be bought for a range of activities, such as skating on the ice rink there (the largest open air rink in London!), the giant observation wheel and the big tent circus. Once inside Winter Wonderland, there are also numerous rides, for all ages for which tokens must be bought.
Evening Standard has called Winter Wonderland a “one-stop shop for family entertainment” and it truly is – there’s something for everyone! As mentioned, there are various rides and activities that are suitable for both children and adults, whilst there’s plenty of stalls selling a wide variety of food and drink, much of it German themed (think bratwurst, curry sausage, gluwein, handbrot) as well as plenty more besides – churros, chips, waffles, steak sandwiches – it’s all here! Finally, The Angels Market has a plethora of stalls selling some fine handicrafts, gifts and souvenirs; I spotted some lovely items made from Tunisian olive wood, and if you’re still in need of some winter clothing (hats, scarves, earmuffs) there’s a number of sellers selling these cute items!
The event is highly recommended, whether you’re visiting London for a short while or a permanent resident, and whether you’ve got some young ones in your group or are adult!
More on the Winter Wonderland can be found at the official website www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com.
Take a look at the photos of Winter Wonderland, taken on 13th December 2010, below! (Note: I walked from entrance near Knightsbridge to Hyde Park corner, then back again.)
Click on any photo for a larger version, or to start a slideshow – clicking on the left or right of any of the larger images will take you backwards and forewards between the photos.