Cardiff’s iconic Winter Wonderland is back and is this one the best one yet? From the Cardiff Castle ice rink, the big wheel to the Christmas pub and markets, what can you expect this Christmas time? Well, this year is above and beyond anything I have seen before during my time in Cardiff. The city has been covered with frosted white lights and the shining decorations of red, gold and green.
Starting in the centre with the markets there are some wonderfully cosy and merry stalls. As you walk through the variety of independent stalls, stop by the fresh Welsh cake stall and treat yourself to a warm, traditional piece of Welsh culture as you take the adventure round the new attractions.
Moving closer to the main event you will pass the charming Christmas-themed pub on Working Street that is full of Christmas spirit. While the drinks are more on the expensive side as students I cannot recommend the Baileys hot chocolate enough! Two iconic christmas staples wrapped into one festive drink to get you into the mood for the day old Saint Nick will come.
When you get to Cardiff castle you will be met with glistening golden reindeers standing tall outside of the castle ground and a brightly decorated tree lighting up the path directing you to the front doors. In the castle the Ice Rink is located and once again it requires no introduction, offering a fun and lively Christmas experience, perfect to go to with your housemates for a wholesome activity this holiday period! Good news for students too, you can get off-peak tickets for £12! A picture-perfect Instagram moment.
Finally, the main event! I went to Winter Wonderland on opening night and it blew me away.
A fan favourite at Winter Wonderland is the fun fair rides and games and it is for good reason. The colours light the field and the screams of laughter fill us all with the warm feelings of Christmas that we know all too well. This year, to go on the rides you will need to purchase tokens but for the individual stalls, games, and food and drink you can purchase it all individually and enjoy some festive treats as you explore Cardiff’s own little North Pole.
Once again, the iconic Ice Bar is back! Inside the bar is a frozen themed wonderland, so wrap up and have a cheeky Christmas drink inside the city’s most cool bar. The Ice Bar is kept at a steady -10 degrees, so make sure to take out your winter gloves. To explore the Ice Bar, the off-peak price is £12.75 and the standard price is £16, which includes a thermal overcoat. Will you be braving the cold?
Winter Wonderland is bringing the magic and joy back to Cardiff once again. So wrap up, grab your friends and explore the festivities and fun!