Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland is back this week, bringing ice skating, fairground rides, festive bars and Christmas treats to the city centre, with some exciting new additions for 2026.
The popular Christmas attraction opens on Thursday 12th November 2026 and runs until Sunday 3rd January 2027, once again taking over two locations in the heart of Cardiff.
As in previous years, the festive celebrations will be split between Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn, with everything from ice skating beneath the castle walls to fairground rides, festive street food and cosy Alpine bars.
And the best part? Entry to both sites is free, although individual attractions are charged separately.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Cardiff Castle: Ice Skating and the Ice Walk
One of Winter Wonderland’s biggest attractions is returning to Cardiff Castle, with its popular undercover ice rink setagainst the backdrop of the historic castle walls.
The Ice Walk also returns, allowing skaters to follow a winding route through the castle grounds, while a separate novice rink provides a space for younger visitors and beginners to find their feet.
With the rink undercover, visitors can enjoy skating whatever the Welsh weather has planned.
New for 2026: Bavarian Curling
One of the biggest new additions this year is Bavarian Ice Curling, bringing a traditional Alpine winter game to Cardiff Castle.
The activity sees teams compete to slide curling sticks towards a target, with the aim of getting closer than their opponents.
There’s no need for ice skates, making it a fun option for groups of friends, families and Christmas parties looking to try something different.
Private lanes can be booked, with hosts on hand to explain the rules.
City Hall Lawn: The Big Wheel and Christmas Funfair
Over at City Hall Lawn, the festive funfair returns with its familiar mix of rides, games and attractions.
The Giant Wheel will once again tower over the city centre, offering views across Cardiff’s Christmas lights and surrounding landmarks.
Visitors can also enjoy a selection of family-friendly rides and bigger thrills, alongside festive entertainment throughout the season.
Festive Bars and Christmas Food
Two of Winter Wonderland’s most popular festive bars are returning.
At City Hall Lawn, Sur La Piste brings back its two-storey Alpine ski lodge, complete with wooden booths, cosy seating and an après-ski atmosphere.
Over at Cardiff Castle, Tafarn returns with its festive tipis, firepit tables and a selection of hot and cold drinks.
There will also be plenty of street food across both locations, from traditional Christmas treats to savoury favourites.
Spudman is also expected to join this year’s food traders, bringing his popular loaded jacket potatoes to the festivities.
Cardiff Winter Wonderland Opening Times
Winter Wonderland officially opens at 5pm on Thursday 12 November, with both locations welcoming visitors until 10pm on opening night.
Opening times vary throughout the season, but generally:
- Weekdays in November: From 1pm until 10pm
- Weekends: From 11am until 10pm, with some attractions open until 11pm
- December: Earlier opening times on selected dates, particularly during the school holidays
- Christmas Eve: Reduced opening hours
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day: Closed
- New Year’s Day: Reduced opening hours
Both locations will remain open until Sunday 3 January 2027.
Visitors are advised to check the official website for exact opening times before travelling.
Do You Need Tickets?
Entry to Cardiff Winter Wonderland is free, so visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, browse the food stalls and visit the bars without purchasing an admission ticket.
However, ice skating, Bavarian curling, the Giant Wheel and fairground rides are charged separately.
Skating sessions and curling lanes can be booked in advance, particularly for popular weekend and school holiday dates.
Cardiff Winter Wonderland runs from 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 at Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
For tickets, bookings and full opening times, visit cardiffswinterwonderland.com.
