Cardiff at Home, What's On, Family
Cardiff's Winter Wonderland 2026
Published on
When: 12 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Where: Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn, Cardiff, Cardiff
Tickets: Free entry; ice skating, rides and other attractions cost extra
Christmas ice skating, an Ice Walk, a Big Wheel and festive fun across Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn.
In 2026, Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland is open from Thursday 12 November to Sunday 3 January 2027. As usual, it will take place across at two iconic city centre locations at Cardiff Castle and City Hall. Find festive fun for everyone, including seasonal ice skating, thrilling family funfair, winter treats and festive entertainment.
Christmas Ice Skating
Returning to the Castle’s grounds, seasonal skating has been a festive family favourite in Cardiff for many years. With accessible sessions and a smaller novice rink, this is a great way for skaters of all ages and abilities to get into the Christmas spirit. The main rink and novice rink are undercover, so aren’t troubled by the winter weather. More confident skaters can venture outside, along the beautiful ice walk. Skating tickets must be booked online in advance.
Bavarian Curling – new for 2026
Brand new and straight from the Alps, it’s time to grab your mates and battle it out in a game of Bavarian curling. With no skates needed, this easy to pick up game is perfect for mates, dates or with the family.
Big Wheel and Family Fairground
Winter Wonderland isn’t complete without its famous, family funfair at Cardiff City Hall. Those with a head for heights can enjoy spectacular, panoramic views across the city from atop the Giant Wheel. There is also a great range of other rides, attractions and games that are suitable for thrill seekers of all ages. All funfair rides are pay as you use from the individual kiosks, contactless card payments are accepted.
Sur La Piste – Alpine Ski Lodge Bar
Winter Wonderland’s very own two-story ski lodge, the ever popular Sur la Piste bar, returns to City Hall Lawn. Escape the winter chill and unwind in this ideal festive retreat with its cosy Alpine vibes. Huddle up in one of the rustic wooden booths, complete with blankets and cushions, and chat over a steamy mulled wine or hot chocolate. It certainly is the perfect place to relax after hitting the ice at Cardiff Castle, but equally good after a long day Christmas shopping or for an after-work refresher.
Tafarn – Triple Tepee Bar
The expanded Tafarn bar at Winter Wonderland’s Cardiff Castle site now occupies three large open tepees. After soaking up the seasonal magic outside, grab a hot or cold beverage and catch up with friends in a cosy corner or around one of the two cheerful firepit tables. This year, don’t miss Wales’ first self serve Guinness bar!
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.