Everything You Need to Know About… Winter Wonderland Newcastle

What is Winter Wonderland Newcastle?

Organised by The Big Wish Ltd, it’s a Christmas extravaganza taking place throughout the festive period that features funfair rides, food and drink, entertainment and even the chance to meet Santa himself.

Where is it?

Winter Wonderland Newcastle is located in the car park at Utilita Arena.

When does it start?

Winter Wonderland Newcastle starts on Friday 15^th December and is open every day until Sunday 7^th January except on Christmas Day. Opening times vary, so check the Winter Wonderland Newcastle website before planning your visit.

What can I expect?

There’s plenty of fun to be had with a whole host of fairground rides including dodgems, waltzers, rollercoasters, a ghost train and a huge Ferris Wheel, plus several thrill seeker rides perfect for all you daredevils out there.

There’ll be fairground games too and stalls selling a wide range of tasty festive treats and street food alongside an Alpine Bavarian Lounge Bar where visitors can enjoy drinks like mulled wine, spiced cider and German beers.

As if that wasn’t enough fun, there’ll also be roaming entertainers on certain days and a Santa’s Grotto in place from 15^th – 24^th December where little ones can meet the man himself and get an early Christmas present… if they’ve made the nice list, that is! On select days, Santa’s reindeer will even be making a guest appearance.

How much does it cost?

Entry is £2.50 per person and under 1s get in for free, as do NHS staff (simply present your NHS ID Card on arrival).

Rides cost extra (from £2-£3.50) and the Ferris Wheel costs £5, but £10 discount vouchers for rides are available to buy on arrival. A trip to Santa’s Grotto costs £7.99 per child which includes a gift from the Big Man in Red himself, although photos will be at an additional cost.

Is it family-friendly?

It certainly is! Alongside Santa’s Grotto, there are loads of kid-friendly rides and games to enjoy and free face painting for all children on 15^th December to celebrate opening night.

Winter Wonderland’s roaming entertainers – which include fairy tale princesses, the Grinch and Cindy Loo, festive stilt walkers and naughty elves – will keep little ones happy too with meet-and-greets and photo opportunities.

Where can I park?

There are plenty of places to park within walking distance of Winter Wonderland including the Times Square Car Park, Stephenson Quarter Car Park and Grainger Town Car Park.

If you’re travelling into the city by Metro, Central Station is the closest station and around a 15-minute walk to Utilita Arena.

Where can I buy tickets?

There’s no need to pre-book tickets. Winter Wonderland Newcastle is walk-in only, so just purchase your tickets on arrival.

Whether you're looking for a family day out, some breath-taking fun on daredevil ride or some delicious food and festive drinks, Winter Wonderland Newcastle is a must in your Christmas calendar. Check out the official website for opening times and follow Winter Wonderland on Facebook for updates.