December is here, which also means the return of Winter Wonderland in Hyde park, London. Since the pandemic, the park now operates with a ticketed entrance that differs on price during peak and off-peak times throughout the day. I chose the off-peak ticket that was no charge for limited dates. The last time I visited the park was in 2019, so I was very excited to see what had changed since my last visit and become immersed in the winter extravaganza that I’ve enjoyed previously. However, I was bitterly disappointed.
Review
Over the years, Winter Wonderland has become bigger and has taken a more centre space in Hyde Park to accommodate larger number of visitors and to host bigger attractions. However, this extra space creates a disorientating experience that requires doubling-back to ensure everything has been seen. In previous years, the highlight of my visit was always the Christmas Market section that showcased a wide variety of unsual goods. This was always tightly crammed together to give the illusion of walking through a wonderland with strings of lights and fake snow to add to the excitement. But this year, the organisers decided to mix the market around and have sellers dotted around the whole park instead of one area. It appeared as if there were less sellers than usual. And if you visit the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market, the sellers are displaying the same goods as the ones in Hyde Park – so nothing special. The majority of the park is filled with rides and attractions and has lost that festive atmosphere, maybe it would be more exciting in the evening with the lights and music. The cost of food inside the park was expensive and this matched the cost of many other attractions, for example a Photo Booth cost £10 which is quite frankly a rip off! Something that is suppose to be fun and low cost as a souvenir should not cost nearly the same amount as a burger! The park lacked atmosphere and after waiting a long time in the security queue to gain entrance to the park, it was not enjoyable.
Final thoughts
Overall, I was disappointed that something I once enjoyed and looked forward to exploring in the festive season, has now become a money-making scheme that lacks festive atmosphere. Although this is the same with all attractions, I tend to turn a blind eye when the experience is worth the admission or internal costs, but this hiking the prices was too obvious. I did enjoy the wood carved sculptures that were dotted around the Bavarian village and this added something extra to follow. I think the park needs to be smaller to create more of a grotto experience with Christmas themed displays for visitors to walk through, have a photograph taken or simply to enjoy the festive spirit. The entrance to the park needs to be more mysterious and inviting. There needs to be more market stalls to buy gifts that are unique and one of a kind rather than generic items. I want more immersive elements to help bring a sense of excitement and uniqueness to an attraction that has a perfect and picturesque location. I don’t think I will be returning to Winter Wonderland next year, unfortunately.
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