Reading Winter Wonderland
Visitors can skate on a large undercover real ice rink or choose from a wide selection of fairground rides, including penguin bumper cars and a giant observation wheel. Santa and his elves welcome families at Santa's Grotto to deliver personalized gifts, alongside special character days. Guests can also browse festive food treats or stop by the German bar and après-ski bar for beers and authentic German sausages.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
Visitors can enjoy festive food and treats, authentic German sausages, and German beers at the German Bar.
Parking
On site parking.
Accessibility
Wheelchairs are permitted on the ice rink, with visitors advised to attend during quieter times.
Pets
Small dogs are allowed on a lead; larger dogs are not.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book Santa's Grotto and ice skating online ahead of time, because both often sell out and tickets on the day depend on what's left.
- Come by train if you can, since the site is just 400 metres from Reading station, which Great Western, CrossCountry, Elizabeth line and South Western Railway trains serve.
- If you plan to ride and skate, add ice skating to your Unlimited Ride Wristband, because the combined upgrade costs less than paying for each separately.
- Bring valid student ID if you're studying, because the event offers a student discount when you show it at booking or the box office.
- Dress for winter weather because this is an outdoor event, though the fully covered rink means skating carries on whatever the weather does.
Special Events & Promotions
- The ice rink is bigger this year, with 560 sq m of skating surface.
- Character Days run during the season.
- Santa's Grotto runs 5–24 December with personalised gifts. It's booked separately and always sells out.
- You can upgrade an Unlimited Ride Wristband to include an ice skating session at a discount.
- Students get a discount with valid ID, and groups of 20 or more can ask for group discounts and food and drink packages.
Links & Contact
Run by Premier Winter Wonderland Events Ltd.
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Small dogs on a lead are welcome. Larger dogs aren't allowed because they can upset smaller children.
Can wheelchair users go on the ice?
Yes. For health and safety it's best to come at quieter times.
Is the ice rink OK for beginners?
Yes. The rink team are on hand to help new skaters, and you can hire Seal and Penguin skate aids per session. Coach Paulette gives skating lessons at off-peak times.
Do all rides take the Unlimited Ride wristband?
Most do. The games stalls and one or two rides aren't included, and the booking site and onsite box office explain which. A wristband gives four hours of unlimited riding.
What happens if the weather is bad?
It's a winter event, so dress for it. The ice rink is fully covered, so skating goes ahead whatever the weather.
Browse Christmas in Reading
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.