Christmas is coming, and in London terms, that heralds Hyde Park Corner Station becoming a nightmare. Why? Winter Wonderland is back.
For over ten years Winter Wonderland has been a staple in the London Christmas experience, offering a free Christmas haven for visitors from every corner of the globe. With a whole host of delights, it’s a must to visit over the winter season. The ‘free’ part is entry – so you can definitely visit without spending a penny, as it is an experience just to wander around, seeing the sights and people watching. It is equally very easy to spend here, as most attractions cost money, and if you fancy sampling the Christmas treats, you will have to fork out.
Are you an indecisive person? Maybe plan ahead, as you will be overwhelmed with the choice of attractions and things to do at Winter Wonderland. From a giant ferris wheel, to ice skating, to loads of rollercoasters, via gift shops, Santa Land and shows aplenty – there is so much to do. Devoting at least a few hours is a good idea, especially when you may have to factor in queuing time. Most attractions are bookable in advance, which you can do via the Winter Wonderland ticket website, but nearly every attraction costs and has queues to purchase tickets on the day.
Always the most essential part of any outing, the selection of food available at Winter Wonderland is incredible. Each year, Christmassy German treats such as bratwurst and pretzels go down a storm, as well as gourmet burgers and pies – Winter Wonderland will have your mouth watering. Alongside more typical Chinese and American offerings dotted around the vicinity, there are a host of bars serving mulled wines and ciders, with a selection of drinks ready to warm you up, whether alcoholic or not.
The practical bit – how to get there. As with any central London location, public transport is the advisable option. Green Park station is the closest step-free access station, while Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge and Marble Arch are also conveniently close. For Citymapper or Google Maps, the address you need is Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London, W2. If you wanna go even more green, there are Santander bike docking stations all around Hyde Park – cycling through the city on winter evenings is a great way to see London’s Christmas lights at your own pace.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is open from 10am-10pm everyday from Nov 23 – Jan 6, excluding Christmas Day. It opens at 4pm on Nov 22 for a public preview until 10pm.