Cardiff Winter Wonderland (Cardiff Winter Wonderland) transforms the Welsh capital into a festive playground each December, filling Bute Park and the city center with ice rinks, Christmas markets, festive rides, and seasonal attractions. Visitors can shop for artisan gifts, enjoy winter treats like mulled cider and mince pies, and take in live music, street performances, and a glittering Ferris wheel that lights up the skyline. With its mixture of family fun, holiday spirit, and sweeping views of Cardiff Castle, Winter Wonderland offers a heartwarming and magical experience for locals and travelers alike.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Cardiff or a Wales route—we’ll plan ice rink sessions, the funfair and festive stops, plus a walkable stay near the Castle & City Hall.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Season: 13 November 2025 – 4 January 2026. Visit Cardiff — official page.
• Locations: Cardiff Castle grounds (Ice Rink & Ice Walk) and City Hall Lawn (funfair, Big Wheel, Sur la Piste bar). Details.
• Opening hours: vary by day/site; 25 Dec closed (selected City Hall Lawn closures also apply). See official opening times.
• Accessible sessions: available on selected dates/times. Find out more.
LOCATION
• Where: Cardiff Castle & City Hall Lawn (city centre). Official overview.
• Main hub map: Cardiff Castle — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• No general pass: site entry is open; activities are ticketed individually (e.g., ice skating, Big Wheel). Ticket options.
• Book skating: reserve ice rink/Ice Walk sessions online. Official site.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Two-site set‑up: Castle grounds and City Hall Lawn are a short walk apart—allow time to move between them. Overview.
• Undercover rink: the main rink is weather‑proof; the scenic Ice Walk runs through the castle grounds. Attractions.
• Plan exceptions: Christmas Day closed and selected reduced hours/closures—check the day’s schedule before you go. Opening times.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a UK route that includes the Cardiff Winter Wonderland at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.