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Winter Wonderland Reading 2025 returns with even bigger lights, attractions, and seasonal entertainment. Set in the heart of Berkshire, this festive event transforms the riverside into a sparkling playground packed with rides, food stalls, games, and Christmas surprises for all ages. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a festive date night, or simply curious about the Winter Wonderland in Reading, this guide covers dates, attractions, prices, parking, ice skating, and everything else you need to know.
Where Is Winter Wonderland Reading?
If you’re trying to figure out where is Reading Winter Wonderland? The event takes place at Hills Meadow, Reading RG4, a riverside park just a short walk from the town centre. The location is ideal because:
- It’s easily accessible from Reading Station.
- There are multiple bus routes connecting directly to the area.
- Parking and town-centre amenities are close by.
Being adjacent to the river and right opposite The Oracle area gives the event a vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the lights reflect across the water.
Winter Wonderland Reading 2025 Dates and Opening Times
Official dates for Reading Winter Wonderland 2025 are expected to follow previous years, typically running from late November until early January. While the full schedule is pending confirmation, the tentative Reading Winter Wonderland opening times are:
- Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Weekends: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Christmas Eve & Boxing Day: Reduced hours
- New Year’s Eve: Usually extended hours depending on the programme
If your main question is when does Winter Wonderland close, the event generally wraps up between 30 December and 2 January. Always check updates as the season approaches to confirm exact timings.
What to Expect at 2025 Winter Wonderland
The event is designed as a festive fairground, combining a classic Christmas feel with modern attractions. Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or on your own, there’s something for everyone.
Rides and Family Attractions
You’ll find a wide selection of rides suitable for all ages. Typical highlights include:
- Giant observation wheel with panoramic views
- Traditional carousel
- Mini coasters for children
- Festive funhouse and maze attractions
- Bumper cars and family-friendly games
Reading Winter Wonderland rides are refreshed each year, so expect a mix of returning favourites and new surprises.
Seasonal Experiences
- Santa meet-and-greet sessions
- Christmas characters roaming the park
- Holiday music and themed performances
- Photos with festive backdrops
Night visits are especially magical thanks to the illuminated walkways, glowing stalls and fairy-lit trees.
Ice Skating in Reading
The Reading Winter Wonderland ice skating rink is one of the main attractions, offering:
- Bookable timed sessions
- Skate hire available
- Christmas music and themed lighting
- Family-friendly sessions for younger skaters
It’s a perfect winter activity whether you’re a confident skater or trying it for the first time.
Winter Wonderland Reading Prices
Prices vary depending on the day and attraction, but typical costs include:
- Individual ride tokens: £3–£6
- Unlimited ride wristbands on selected days: £15–£25
- Ice skating sessions: £10–£15
- Game stalls: £3–£5 per play
Food stalls offer a range of seasonal favourites, including hot chocolate, mulled cider, festive pies, churros, and German-style sausages.
Because pricing can fluctuate, checking the official website before visiting ensures you get the latest information on Winter Wonderland Reading prices.
Parking for Winter Wonderland Reading
If you’re arriving by car, the area offers several parking options:
- Hills Meadow Car Park (closest to the event)
- King’s Meadow Car Park
- Reading Station Car Park (about a 10-minute walk)
- Queens Road Car Park (town-centre option)
On busy December weekends, Reading Winter Wonderland parking can fill quickly, so arriving early or using public transport is recommended.
Reading Christmas Market Nearby
A short walk from Hills Meadow takes you to the Reading Christmas Market, where local makers and festive traders set up wooden chalets selling:
- Handmade crafts
- Winter clothing and accessories
- Festive gifts and ornaments
- Artisanal food items
Combining the market with Reading Winter Wonderland 2025 makes for a great full-day Christmas outing.
Store Your Bags with Radical Storage
If you plan to visit the event before hotel check-in or after a shopping session in town, carrying bags around can be uncomfortable. Radical Storage offers secure, affordable luggage storage spots across Reading, allowing you to enjoy the attractions, rides and skating without worrying about your belongings. Flat daily pricing, quick booking and trusted local partners make it simple to drop your bags and explore hands-free.
Final Thoughts
Reading’s Winter Wonderland delivers everything a festive day out should have: rides, lights, ice skating, warm food, and a cheerful atmosphere. With its convenient location, glowing displays, and family-friendly attractions, it remains one of Berkshire’s most popular winter events. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning as a yearly tradition, you can expect a magical and memorable experience.