Winter Wonderland with ice rink opens at Norfolk Showground

Winter Wonderland is now open at the venue, located on the outskirts of Norwich, and it is running until January 3, 2023.

Father Christmas his grotto at the Winter Wonderland at the Norfolk Showground. (Image: Denise Bradley)

It is the first time it has run in Norfolk and follows the success of a similar event launched in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, in 2016. 

It hosts the only real ice rink in Norfolk this year with skate hire included and 45-minute slots, all housed in a huge marquee.

Christmas elves from Norwich at the Winter Wonderland at the Norfolk Showground. From left: Twinkle, Charlotte Waller; Nutmeg, Ryan Livermore; Evergreen, George Brown, and Pudding, Lucy Wilkins. (Image: Denise Bradley)

There is also a Santa's grotto and Christmas market cabins selling cheeses, fudge, cookies and brookies, personalised decorations, items for dogs and more. 

The organisers are also behind the huge touring theme park Funderworld, which has previously visited the Norfolk Showground.

The Winter Wonderland at the Norfolk Showground. (Image: Denise Bradley)

At the event is rollercoasters, children's rides, a giant observation wheel and a 60-metre high sky swing. 

Michelle Matthews, one of the organisers, said: "We spotted a gap in the market as there was nothing like Winter Wonderland in East Anglia and there has not been a real ice rink for a few years. 

Serena Cullum, 2nd left, with her family from Wymondham on the Reindeer Sleigh coaster ride at the Winter Wonderland. From left, her children are, Jacob Care, seven; Holly, 10; and Katy, 17. (Image: Denise Bradley)

"Visitors can expect a whole host of rides and attractions and the ice rink is absolutely enormous - we want to make this an annual event in Norfolk." 

Many of the businesses involved are local and there is a licensed bar and street food traders selling giant pigs in blankets, Yorkshire pudding wraps, waffles and more. 

Christmas Angels Rebecca and Lisa, at the Winter Wonderland at the Norfolk Showground. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Mrs Matthews added: "Whether you are visiting to watch your grandchildren ice skate, to sit and have a mulled wine and goodies to eat, to challenge yourself on extreme rides or to take the children to see Santa - there is something for everyone." 

Opening times vary depending on the date and the hours are extended over the Christmas period. 

The Winter Wonderland at the Norfolk Showground. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Entry tickets cost £4 at winterwonderlandnorwich.com, with under-fours free, and ice skating costs from £10.50 to £14.50 per person (which includes admission). 

Ride credits can be purchased online or by cash or card at the event.