What to expect from London's Winter Wonderland

Each year, it is fair to say that London goes a bit feral for Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Each year it brings a carnival experience and so much more to the city, it is the ultimate summary of all the things we associate with the festive period each year. But how did it come about and what can people expect to see? We're here to tell you all about it.

This year, Winter Wonderland opens from Friday 17th November to Monday 1st January, giving you plenty of time to get your fix. Starting back in 2007, it was an open-air Christmas Market akin to what you'll usually find dotted across other cities, the scale has grown massively since.

Its Hyde Park location means that it takes place on one of eight Royal Parks. There's over 350 acres of land, with other attractions such as the Serpentine Lake that you can see before you even enter Winter Wonderland. Part of the money generated by this big Christmas bonanza goes back into preserving the land

There is now so much to behold at the event with rollercoaster rides, ice skating, rides, live music and more. This will be their 16th year in the business and they will be making sure that it is as much of a memorable experience as ever. It is a far cry from the 2007 edition, where the ice rink, giant wheel and funfair were part of a small selection of entertainment. 

Over the next few years, the slow introduction of some of Winter Wonderland's mainstays began. In 2009, Santaland made its first appearance and Zippos Circus made it their Christmas home. In 2011 the ice rink was expanded to the point where it is the largest outdoor rink in the whole of the UK.

Since then brand new bars, jaw-dropping rides, street food traders, the ice slide and so much more has been added. It is a seemingly endless list that adds to Winter Wonderland's dedication to making itself the biggest and brightest festive event in the capital.

There isn't long now until the opening night, where London will be seeing the bright lights from miles away all the way until the start of January. You can find out more information here.

If Winter Wonderland won't satiate your Christmas fix then you can find more events here. The city is a beautiful place to be fr Christmas Eve, surrounded by all the lights and you can book some entertainment here. For all things London on Skiddle, make sure you click here.

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.