Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York

Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, the award-winning outdoor ice rink, funfair and Santa’s Grotto, will be returning to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York from Friday 15th November 2024 to Sunday 5th January 2025.

The Ice Factor – the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink at 975 sq m – will this year be using upgraded ice rink technology to provide a better skating experience and will be incorporating some exciting new festive additions as well as its signature 30ft high sparkling Christmas tree in the centre of the rink. Surrounded by illuminated trees, the rink-side cafe and terrace as well as a viewing platform, this magical setting makes for the perfect festive experience for all ages.

As well as two additional skating sessions per day, also new this year will be the Frequent Skater Pass for those wishing to make the most of the seven-week season. Skaters can collect a stamp from the box office over five skating sessions and the 6^th visit is free! Book here.

The funfair will include modern rides once again this year such as the thrilling Twist, Waltzer and Miami, as well as the family favourite, the vintage Dodgems dating from 1937. In addition, there will be plenty to enthral younger visitors with children’s rides as well as game stalls offering prizes every time.

The Chalet café with its outdoor terrace provides the perfect spot from which to enjoy a warming mulled wine or hot chocolate and witness all the thrills and spills of skating. Inside the cosy alpine-themed, après-skate café, tasty winter-warming food and drinks as well as sweet treats will be available to purchase, and private parties can also be arranged.

A new improved Dog Haus ‘bratwursterie’ is sure to tickle the taste buds with the scent of grilling gourmet sausages and mulled wine. The snowy woodland walk with its picnic tables and illuminated gingerbread men makes a festive outdoor eating area, leading to Santa’s cosy log cabin grotto where a warm welcome and a special gift for children awaits.

The festive retail offering is also increasing this year with the boutique Christmas market doubling in size from six cabins to twelve, offering gifts with a difference, and of course, York Designer Outlet is the perfect place to tackle the Christmas shopping, with favourite premium brands including Levi’s, Clarins, Columbia, French Connection, Sweaty Betty and many more for up to 60% less than the RRP. Those travelling in groups can also enjoy a special Christmas cheer with an additional 10% discount at participating stores when they pre-book online (yorkdesigneroutlet.com).

Santa will be returning to his Grotto this year and reservations open next week, on 1^st September either through www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com or directly at www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/York. Tickets will be priced at £6 per child (including gift) with a £1.50 family booking fee. A reservation is required to visit Santa but can be made on the day, subject to availability.