Winter Wonderland Manchester

Winter Wonderland is back at Event City! It's become a part of the Manchester festive calendar - and a welcome one at that, offering fun for all the family indoors in the warm.

I took two 12 year olds along to the press launch last night and they had a great time. There are plenty of rides to choose from with a firm favourite being the Toro Loco Rodeo ride. It's probably as much fun watching the adults get flung off as it is going for a bumpy ride! Plus there's dodgem cars, plenty of spinning rides, mini roller coasters, inflatables and mazes to explore. You're not going to find the equivalent of the Smiler, but there is plenty to suit all ages

Younger visitors are spoilt for choice - as well rides, there are shows to watch on the stage. Become a Jedi master with training school, sing along with the ice princesses or watch Daisy & Ollie Live. And a trip down memory lane for the parents .. 'Up above the streets and houses, rainbow climbing high, everyone can see it smiling over the sky' - or is it just me that still remembers the theme tune? Yes George and Zippy are in town! There is even a small circus - no daring feats on the high wire or trapeze, or any acrobatics, but a couple of entertaining performers.  

Where else in Manchester could you visit the beach in the middle of December?

Sadly the 12 year olds couldn't be persuaded to visit Santa, but for younger visitors a visit to Winter Wonderland wouldn't be complete without a visit to the grotto. £3.50 gets you an audience with the man himself and a token to exchange for a gift in Santa's workshop. You can skip the gift and just have a free chat with Father Christmas.  

Purely in the interests of research I visited The German bar which was doing a roaring trade, selling beer, mulled wine, prosecco, hot chocolate and much more. If you're feeling peckish, there is a range of German market style food stalls selling hot dogs, pancakes, ice cream and carvery sandwiches.

In all, I'd say it was a good night out. The boys had to be dragged away at closing time. Not particularly cheap but if you can avoid pester power, most of it is paid for once you're in. We took our own drinks and this didn't seem to be an issue. Pre-booking also saves a few quid - and guarantees entry as it does get very busy.

Visit the Winter Wonderland website to find out more