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Your Fun Guide to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (2025)

20 November 2025

In this post...

London in winter is pure magic, and there’s no better place to soak it all in than Winter Wonderland. Imagine twinkling lights, thrilling rides, hot drinks, and tasty treats around every corner. Whether you’re going with friends, family, or just want a fun solo adventure, this guide has all the tips, tricks, and must-do attractions to make your visit unforgettable. Let’s get started!

Where is Winter Wonderland?

Winter Wonderland is right in the heart of London’s iconic Hyde Park, making it super easy to reach from almost anywhere in the city. The nearest Tube station is Marble Arch on the Central Line, just a short walk away. You can also get there from Lancaster Gate or Paddington stations.

When does Winter Wonderland open in 2025?

Winter Wonderland officially opened on the 14th of November and will run until the 1st of January 2026. It’s the perfect place to have some fun and feel like a child again! The park usually opens around 10am or 11am and stays open until late in the evening. For the most up-to-date opening hours, check the official Hyde Park Winter Wonderland website.

Travel tip: Weekdays and early afternoons are quieter, so if you want to avoid crowds, try visiting during those times.

How much does Winter Wonderland cost?

Entry to Winter Wonderland is free during off-peak times! But if you’re visiting during busier periods, standard entry usually starts from £5, and peak entry can be around £7.50 per adult. For the best experience, we recommend booking your tickets online in advance, especially if you want to go on rides or catch the shows, since those come with extra costs.

Things to Do at Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland isn’t just about wandering around looking at lights. It's a full-on festive playground packed with rides, attractions, and delicious treats. Here’s what you can do there:

Rides & Attractions

If you love a bit of adrenaline, check out the Waltzer, Munich Looping Coaster, or the Extreme Ride.
Families can enjoy classic rides like the Carousel, Funhouse, and the Ferris Wheel, which gives amazing views over Hyde Park.
Don’t miss the Helter Skelter. It's an old-school slide with a twist, or the Magical Ice Kingdom, where you can wander through sparkling ice sculptures.

Check out our five favourite rides you need to try at Winter Wonderland. 👇

Ice Skating & Shows

Strap on your skates and glide across one of London’s biggest outdoor ice rinks. It’s a ton of fun whether you’re a pro or a first-timer! If skating’s not your thing, visit some of the amazing shows like the Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk. Think acrobats, stunts, and holiday magic all rolled into one!

Travel tip: If you want to visit the Bar Ice, try going as soon as you arrive at Winter Wonderland because they can only let a limited number of people in at a time.

Food & Drink Options

To make the most of all the tasty treats at Winter Wonderland, bring some cash and a little extra space in your belly. Start with small bites so you can try a few different stalls, from Bratwurst and churros to gourmet street food. If you want a cosy spot to warm up, check out Princess Bar. They serve German style drinks so you are in for a treat. If you’re not a fan of alcohol, grab a steaming hot chocolate as you wander between rides and stalls.

5 Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting Winter Wonderland

Best times to visit: If you want to skip the biggest crowds, aim for weekdays or early afternoons. You’ll have more space to explore, take photos, and enjoy the rides without feeling rushed.
What to wear: Dress in warm layers, grab gloves and a scarf, and wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking and queuing a lot.
Budgeting: Even though entry can be free, rides, shows, food, and souvenirs can quickly add up. Pick the things you want to do ahead of time so you don’t end up breaking the bank.
Family-friendly advice: Some rides have height restrictions, so check in advance to avoid disappointed little ones.
Insider tip: Don’t miss a ride on the Giant Wheel at sunset.

Stay Connected in the UK

Staying connected while exploring London is a must, and getting a local eSIM makes it even easier. With an eSIM, you can use Google Maps to find your way around Hyde Park, check ride wait times, and even book tickets on the go. It’s also perfect for sharing all your festive Winter Wonderland moments with friends and family without worrying about expensive roaming charges.

Whether you’re posting photos, streaming holiday playlists, or just keeping in touch, a local eSIM keeps you connected and stress-free during your trip. With Sim Local, you’re instantly connected to the UK’s top networks like EE, Lycamobile, and Three, so you won’t miss a single moment.

Check out our eSIM plan options below. 👇