Explainer
Cardiff Winter Wonderland 2021: Ice bar, skating rink and more open - everything you need to know
Cardiff’s famous and much loved Winter Wonderland is back this year, bigger and better than ever.
Split across two locations in the heart of the city centre, visitors will be able to enjoy attractions at both Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
The castle will be home to skating, with an ice rink and 150m ice walk, while City Hall will host the rides, entertainment and bars.
The Winter Wonderland is opening today (16 November) - find out everything you need to know about visiting below.
What's on offer at the two different locations?
At Cardiff Castle:
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland ice rink and ice walk - set within the beautiful grounds of Cardiff Castle against the backdrop of the Norman Keep. The undercover 40m x 15m ice rink, with the 150m Ice Walk, is suitable for all ages and abilities. Accessible sessions are available every Wednesday afternoon between 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
Skate aids for smaller guests - The famous penguins are back and the colony has grown. There are now even more skate aids available for children who need assistance on the ice. Pre-booking is essential.
Festive food & drink - From hearty Yorkshire pudding wraps to toasted marshmallows, there are plenty of options available within the Castle walls.
At City Hall Lawn:
Funfair attractions - As usual, you can enjoy the best view of the city from the Giant Wheel plus, there is a great range of other attractions that are suitable for all ages and nightly entertainment.
New-and-improved Sur La Piste Bar with rooftop terrace - The two-story ski lodge returns and this year it comes with a brand new, outdoor roof terrace.
Brand-new Ice Bar - Chill out and enjoy a drink at the city’s coolest hotspot, with sub-zero temperatures and yes, everything is made out of ice. To visit the Ice Bar, make sure you pre-book a timed slot.
Festive food & drink - Enjoy sweet and savoury treats in the Alpine Village’s covered seating areas.
Do you have to pay to get into winter wonderland?
There is no admission fee. You only have to pay for the attractions you choose.
Ride tokens cost £1.00 each and can be bought from the token booths on site. Token booths will close 15 minutes before site closing time each evening.
While there is no onsite box office this year, you can book attraction tickets online at any time here.
Do you need to wear a face covering?
It is recommended that you wear a face covering when queuing and in skate exchange, however you do not need to wear a face covering while on the ice.
What days/times is winter wonderland open?
November 16 to December 17 - Monday – Friday: 1pm – 10pm (Weekends: 11am – 10pm)
November 17 to January 2 - Monday – Friday: 11am – 10pm (Weekends: 10am – 10pm)
Exceptions - Christmas Eve – 11am – 8pm
Christmas Day and Boxing Day – Closed
New Year’s Day – 11am – 8pm