10 Top tips for visiting Winter Wonderland in Manchester

Last night we were invited to the Press Evening of Winter Wonderland Manchester. As it was our 4th visit I have shared with you our 10 top tips for visiting Winter Wonderland this year. You can also read my review of last years event here.

If you have older kids make your way towards the back of Winter Wonderland. Here you will find the bigger rides for older children (and 45 year old husbands).

Wear layers as I find it gets quite warm inside Event City. If you have coats there is a cloakroom at the entrance to Winter Wonderland.

Parking is free and there are plenty of spaces, but it’s worth bearing in mind that Event City is right next to the Trafford Centre. Give yourself plenty of time to get there before the start of your session.

Pick up a guide map as you enter. It’s always good to have a map to hand.

The times for the circus, pantomime and the various shows will be displayed by the main stage, next to the circus, guest services and the entrance archway.

Make people in your party aware that there is a family meeting area at the back of the main stage. Winter Wonderland is huge so it’s a good idea to arrange a meeting place should anyone get lost.

If you have children that are desperate to visit Santa I would head there first. We visited towards the end of our session, and waited for over 20 minutes. It is definitely worth the wait as the whole experience is lovely. And where else do you get to meet real reindeers after seeing Santa.

Santa is free to visit, however if your child wants to choose a gift there is a £3.50 charge. There was a good selection of toys to choose from, and Katie went for a cuddly toy which was good quality.

Whilst the rides are included in the entrance price, there are plenty of games and stalls which require cash. My advice would be to set a budget and stick to it. We let Katie go on one game of her choice, which was Hook a Duck priced at £3.00.

There is a good variety of eating places which are centrally located. You can choose from German Sausage, burger and fries and plenty of sweet treats. The prices are similar to what you would pay at other attractions (Burger £4.00, Chips £2.50, Bottle of Coke £2.00)

We always look forward to our evening at Winter Wonderland, as for us it marks the start of the festive season. Winter Wonderland Manchester will be open the until 1st January 2018. Sessions last for 4 hours and are priced at £20.50 each (plus £1.50 booking fee) and under 3s are free.  Please see the website for more information and to book your tickets.

Thank you to Winter Wonderland Manchester for inviting us to the press night. All words and opinions are my own.