London's Winter Wonderland is a highly popular annual event that brings Christmas festivities, light displays, a range of activities, markets and entertainment to the heart of the city.
Taking place on the 21st November 2024 - 5th January 2025, this will be the festival’s 17th year in operation and it’s expected to be bigger than ever. Between ice sculptures, circus acts, snow tubing and mulled wine, there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone on a day out at Winter Wonderland.
Read the guide below for our advice on how to make the most of the day, what you can expect and how to get to Hyde Park during this busy season:
What is Winter Wonderland?
Held annually in Hyde Park in Central London, the usually serene leisure area for tourists and commuters transforms into a dazzling winter paradise every year. The multi-week event brings in thousands of visitors from within London and across the UK, from families to friends and date nights.
You can expect to find a range of activities at the holiday festival including ice skating, concerts, visits with Santa, shopping and more. While entry used to be free, they have begun charging for admission in the past few years and allocating time slots to visitors, so make sure to plan accordingly.
What times is Winter Wonderland open?
Winter Wonderland opening times are Monday to Sunday, 10 AM - 10 PM.
How much are tickets to Winter Wonderland?
Pricing for entry is as follows:
- £5 for standard tickets
- £7.50 for peak time tickets
- Infants (2 and under) as well as essential companions are granted free admission
- There are limited off-peak offers available to early birds which grant free entry, which you can find on their booking portal.
What activities are available at Winter Wonderland this year?
The event features a range of activities, shows, and attractions, including:
- Visit a magical Ice Kingdom: Dress extra-warm for this one as you’ll be entering an ice sculpture experience kept at -10°C. Tickets range from £7 to £15.
- Ice skating: Prices usually start from £15 for adults and £10 for children. There are additional options available for trained skaters to accompany you and teach your group during your session.
- Rides: Prices vary by ride, with most ranging from £3 to £8 per person.
- Ice sculpting workshops: Book a 40-minute session to make an ice sculpture of your very own. You must be above 12 years of age for this one, and it costs £59.50 per session (for 2 people, including admission to the magical ice kingdom).
- Cirque Berserk: Make an evening out of your visit and see this high-energy circus act put on by talented performers. Adult tickets sell for £18 — plus, if you’re planning to also spend money on food or drinks inside to bring your total past £25, entry will be free.
- Tube down the ice slide: Add this onto your day ticket for a small surge of adrenaline. All age ranges are welcome!
- Eat a range of global cuisines: A full vendor list hasn’t been released yet for 2024, but if it will be anything like last year, you can expect a wide array of food choices from cheese fondue to fish and chips or Texas barbeque to Lebanese bowls.
If you’re driving to Hyde Park during Winter Wonderland
Parking at Winter Wonderland can be quite a challenge due to the high number of visitors and the surrounding area being a hub for tourism, shopping and business. To ensure a stress-free experience and to land potential discounts, consider pre-booking your parking space on JustPark well in advance.
You can choose from hundreds of available private driveways in the area that are listed by homeowners, or you can book a space at car parks like Q-Park near the event entrance. There are great options nearby that include parking at a Hilton hotel, booking in an official CitiPark car park or booking a privately owned parking space near the entrance of Hyde Park near Royal Albert Hall.
During your search, you also have the option to:
- Search for spaces within walking distance of the park and get more affordable rates than showing up last-minute
- Escape the crowds more easily leaving your car in a slightly less congested area
- Extend your parking session easily through the JustPark app if you’re facing delays getting out of the crowds
- Have peace of mind knowing that you’ve got a guaranteed parking space upon arrival
Driving with a pram or larger vehicle? Want some added security on your car with CCTV? Make sure you use our search filters so you get the most suitable space possible.
Getting to Hyde Park by public transport
Being so centrally located, Hyde Park is very accessible by public transport and it is one of the most popular ways to get there.
Even if you’re driving, it can be advisable to park in a quieter borough and make your journey by bus or tube for the remainder of the journey to cut down on costs.
By bus:
- Bus routes: 9, 14, 19, 38, 74, 390 (all stop near Hyde Park)
- Closest stops:some text
- Hyde Park Corner
- Marble Arch
- Knightsbridge
- Lancaster Gate
By tube:
- Marble Arch (Central Line) – Ideal for the northeast side of Hyde Park.
- Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly Line) – Closest to the southeast corner of the park.
- Knightsbridge (Piccadilly Line) – Good for access to the south side.
- Lancaster Gate (Central Line) – Ideal for the northern edge.
- Green Park (Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly Lines) – Provides access to the park’s southeast entrance.
Hyde Park is also walkable from Paddington Station and Victoria Station via National Rail or multiple underground lines.
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