The biggest real ice rink in the county and a 36m high Ferris wheel are just two of the attractions at Bedford’s Winter Wonderland, due to open on Saturday, 25 November.
The festive event is currently being set up in Bedford Park and hopes to attract local visitors as well as families from further afield for a one-stop Christmas day out.
The 600sqm ice rink is the biggest in Bedfordshire and is fully covered, so skaters can enjoy the ice, whatever the British weather throws at us.
In addition, there is a Christmas Tree Maze – featuring 200 festive firs and Santa’s Grotto, plus fairground rides for thrill-seekers and younger children too.
“Enjoy breathtaking views from our 36-metre Ferris Wheel,” say organisers. “And under the Christmas lights, we’ll have all the festive treats you could ask for, whether it’s a sip of mulled wine, hot chocolate or a tasty crêpe, we have a great variety of food and drink.”
Admission is £2 per person and under 3s go free. With each admission fee, visitors receive one Ride Token which is valid on any ride. Tickets can be purchased here.
One local resident who visited Winter Wonderland last year told the Bedford Independent: “It’s definitely part of our Christmas plans.
I’m looking forward to bringing the kids to the ice rink and we’re all looking forward to meeting Father Christmas in his Grotto. We can’t wait.”
Cllr Colleen Atkins (Labour, Harpur ward) said: “We have raised the difficulties of the event on behalf of residents and sought assurances about the reinstatement of the grass.
“However, as the event is going ahead, we certainly don’t wish to spoil a Christmas festivity that will be enjoyed by many and create wonderful memories, especially for children.
“We sincerely hope there is as little disruption as possible for local residents. Obviously, we will be keeping a close eye on it.”
Visitors are encouraged to park at Queen Street multi-storey car park which can be found here. It is free to park for two hours every day and free all day every Sunday.
Winter Wonderland opening times are as follows: weekdays – 4pm – 9, weekends – midday – 9pm. From Monday, 18 December it will be open from midday – 9pm daily.
