I visited Winter Wonderland and Princess Kate would love it this year | Royal | News

Hyde Park has once again transformed into a glittering Christmas kingdom – the kind of magical, storybook setting the Princess of Wales would undoubtedly approve of. The Royal Family are famously devoted to festive traditions, and Winter Wonderland has already proved to be a hit among them. 

Princess Eugenie was recently spotted taking her little ones to immerse themselves in the sparkle and spectacle, showing that the attraction is already quietly becoming a royal hit. It’s been previously reported that Princess Catherine once took Prince George along when he was small, but this year’s newest attractions make it the perfect festive day out for the whole Wales family – especially Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

With more rides, more immersive zones and even more festive charm, Winter Wonderland 2025 is bigger, better and more enchanting than ever.

The event has now officially opened and will remain open to visitors until January 1, 2026. Whether you visit during the day or at night, it operates from 10am to 10pm, Monday to Friday, with Christmas Day being the only day it is closed.

The Express were granted an exclusive preview ahead of opening, stepping inside a frosty fairground world that somehow felt magical even in the biting cold. Beneath the wind and winter drizzle lay a scene even Scrooge himself couldn’t resist.

Here are the top reasons why you should experience Winter Wonderland this year.

If Prince William whisked the children away for a skating session or a thrilling ride like the Snow Jet, Catherine, 43, could easily lose herself among the picturesque market stalls.

The open-air layout, with festive gifts displayed in traditional wooden huts, looks like it has leapt straight off a Christmas card.

The market is lined with luxury artisans and independent designers offering everything from cashmere, leather goods and handmade jewellery to homeware, decorations, toys and gourmet seasonal treats. It’s the kind of charming, understated festive shopping experience that aligns perfectly with Catherine’s own elegant taste.

Winter Wonderland may have started modestly, but over the years, it has evolved into an enchanted adventureland, and this year, the ice slides are guaranteed to be a hit with children and adults alike. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis would no doubt adore racing down the glistening, icy track in giant inflatable doughnuts.

As you climb the ramp, twinkling lights surround you before you settle in, grip tight and launch into a frosty race to the bottom. It’s simple, joyful family fun – the kind Princess Catherine always champions.

But those who prefer adrenaline to shimmering lights, Winter Wonderland boasts over 100 rides and attractions sourced from across Europe – including Munich Looping, Wilde Maus and the Euro Coaster. And of course, nothing beats soaring above the festivities on the iconic Giant Wheel. Plus, dazzling live shows, from circus acts to ice performances, run all day long.

The Ice Bar is one of Winter Wonderland’s coolest attractions – quite literally. Sip festive cocktails in a breathtaking -10°C bar where everything, from the glasses to the tables and sculptures, is carved entirely from ice.

It’s atmospheric, immersive and perfect for a moment of escapism.

It’s very easy to imagine Catherine and William slipping away from the crowds for a chilled (in every sense) festive tipple. It’s a fun, unexpected grown-up moment in the heart of the festive chaos.

For anyone seeking a nostalgic, merry night out, the Bavarian Village delivers magic in abundance.

With glowing lights, booming festive classics and steins of beer flowing, it’s the perfect backdrop for a royal date night or a cosy evening with friends.

Visitors can dine beneath wooden chalets, warm up beside open fires or settle into a glowing tipi with mulled wine in hand. The atmosphere is impossibly joyful.