Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland Essex Mums Review

We visited: Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

A Festive Family Adventure & Review

Looking for a magical Christmas day out in London? Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park is one of the city’s biggest festive attractions, and we couldn’t resist checking it out on opening weekend. With twinkling lights, thrilling rides, and festive cheer, it’s a must-visit for families looking to soak up the Christmas spirit. But is it worth the hype (and the price)? Here’s our honest Winter Wonderland review, packed with insider tips and must-know details!

First Impressions – A Christmas Wonderland

Wow, it’s huge! From the moment you step through the grand entrance, you’re hit with Christmas magic—twinkling fairy lights, wooden chalets, and that wonderful smell of festive treats. Even in the rain, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Top tip: Winter Wonderland is massive, so wear comfy shoes and plan your route using the event map.

Ice Skating – A Winter Wonderland Must-Do

We were buzzing for the Winter Wonderland ice rink, but rookie mistake—we didn’t factor in how long it takes to get from the entrance to the rink! Arrive at least an hour before your slot and be at the rink 30 minutes before to avoid a last-minute rush. The setting is stunning, with fairy lights overhead, but with the rain, the ice was a little slushy. Still, it’s a fantastic experience if you’re prepared.

Fairground Games & Rides – Worth the Price?

Let’s talk Winter Wonderland fairground games—fun but pricey! Pre-buying game tokens was a smart move as it helped us set a spending limit. The kids loved trying their luck, and we even won a few small teddies. However, be warned: many games are better suited for older kids and adults. Our 6-year-old found some too tricky, so younger children might need a helping hand.

Zippos Christmas Circus – A Must-See Show

One of the best parts of our day! Zippos Christmas Circus was packed with acrobatics, comedy, and classic circus acts that kept both kids and adults entertained. Plus, it was indoors, making it the perfect escape from the rain. With multiple shows daily, you could easily watch two different performances in one visit. Highly recommend booking in advance!

Food & Drinks – Is Voodoo Ray’s Bottomless Pizza Worth It?

We gave Voodoo Ray’s Bottomless Pizza a go, but it was a bit chaotic at first—lots of hungry people and not enough veggie options. However, after about 30 minutes, the pizza started flowing, and everyone was happier. Top tip: don’t arrive starving or you’ll get hangry! It’s decent value, but patience is required. There are also plenty of Christmas market food stalls if you prefer traditional festive treats.

Crowds & Atmosphere – Best Time to Visit

By mid-afternoon, Winter Wonderland was packed. We arrived at 1pm, and by 7pm, it was almost too crowded for little ones and our small dog. Groups of young adults were out enjoying the festive spirit (aka mulled wine!), which made it a bit overwhelming. Best time to visit Winter Wonderland? Go early in the day and aim to leave by 6pm before it gets too busy.

Winter Wonderland Cost & Value for Money

Let’s be real—Winter Wonderland isn’t cheap. Our average spend was around £65 per person for two adults and two kids. But if you plan ahead and budget wisely, it’s a special Christmas day out that’s worth the splurge. Top tip: Book tickets in advance and look for discounts on ride bundles and game tokens!

Final Verdict – Would We Go Again?

Yes, but with a better plan! Next time, we’d pre-map our activities to avoid unnecessary walking and rushing between attractions. For families, we recommend visiting earlier in the day and leaving by 6pm before the evening crowds take over. Also, layer up, pack hand warmers, and be prepared for unpredictable weather!

Overall, Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park is a magical, festive experience, and we’re glad we went. It might not be top of our Christmas 2025 bucket list, but if you plan it right, it’s definitely a winter day out to remember!

Event Website: https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Travel: We took the train from Chelmsford to Liverpool Street Station and then the Tube to Marble Arch. Travel Time approx: 1hr 15mins