Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
From Thursday 13 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, Winter Wonderland will once again occupy two iconic city centre locations, the grounds of Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
Featuring the much-loved undercover ice-rink and Ice Walk, the Big Wheel and family funfair, Alpine ski-lodge bar (Sur la Piste), plus festive food and drink stalls and a whole host of other attractions. Winter Wonderland is always at the heart of Cardiff’s seasonal celebrations.
Entry to both sites is free of charge but you do need to pay for the attractions you’d like to experience. Tickets can be booked in advance for ice skating sessions and also for the Big Wheel. Funfair ride tokens can be purchased on site and all food and drink can be bought from the individual kiosks.
At Cardiff Castle…
Get Your Skates On
Returning to the beautiful grounds of Cardiff Castle, the Ice Skating Rink and Ice Walk, set against the backdrop of the Norman Keep. The undercover ice rink, with the scenic Ice Walk, is a great way to kick off that festive feeling. Accessible sessions are available on Thursdays. The Novice rink provides a more relaxed skating environment to enjoy, a welcoming space for beginners and those looking for a more laid-back experience.
Family Fun
Hop onboard a giant bauble for a festive family ride as you gently bob up and down around a picturesque Christmas tree ride, and don’t miss the Arctic themed lanterns that will be illuminating the Castle grounds this Winter.
Festive Food and Drink
Check out the traditional Tafarn hiding within the Castle for Christmas, perfect for a drink to celebrate the occasion. While the ever popular food stalls return to the Castle for all to enjoy, whether you’re warming up with a hot dog or hot cocoa, mulled wine or roasted marshmallows.
At Cardiff City Hall Lawn…
The Big Wheel and Family Fairground
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland just isn’t complete without its famous family funfair. As usual, you can enjoy the best view of the city from the Giant Wheel; plus there will be a great range of other attractions and games that are suitable for all ages.
Free Family Entertainment
Enjoy regular, free family entertainment at Winter Wonderland. The huge undercover entertainment area on City Hall lawn allows you to enjoy the best in local entertainment whatever the weather!
Sur La Piste – Alpine Ski Lodge Bar
The ever popular two-story ski lodge, Sur la Piste has returned, cosy up by the fire or grab a booth with friends at the perfect place to unwind with a drink, after hitting the ice at Cardiff Castle, but equally deserved after a day of retail therapy or after-work socialising.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no firework display held in Cardiff city centre on New Year’s Eve.
CHRISTMAS IN CARDIFF
There’s never a bad time to Visit Cardiff, with so many events, attractions and things to see in Wales’ thriving capital, but there’s just always something magical about the city at Christmas time. So, feel the spirit of the season come to life, whatever makes it special for you, Christmas in Cardiff has something for everyone.
