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

And some super-savings are on offer for those wanting to book their slot early

The Early Bird discount of 20% this year and applies to all adult, child, concession, and family tickets until 30^th September.  Tickets are on sale now through www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com.

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!

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).

Paul Tyler, Centre Manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York comments:

“Christmas at York Designer Outlet just wouldn’t be the same without Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland.    For many families the event has become a fixture in their festive calendar with fun outdoor activities for all ages to enjoy, as well as the opportunity to tick off the Christmas shopping list!”

Georgi Wood, Event Organiser of Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland also comments:

“Though it’s the middle of summer we at Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland are excited to be working on new improved ice rink technology for the forthcoming season and to be offering significant savings with our 20% Early Bird discount.  So if you have a favourite day for festive skating, or want to make that special occasion even more special with a trip to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland now is the time to book your preferred session and take advantage of this limited offer. 

“We’re also delighted to be introducing our Frequent Skater Pass, recognising that so many people are regulars on the rink, having grown up with The Ice Factor over almost two decades.  We will also have some fun new decorations and theming around the event, making it the perfect place for the festive selfie!”

Booking Information:

Tickets for a 45-minute skating session at The Ice Factor are priced at £14.95 for adults and £13.95 for children and concessions. Family packages are available for families of three, four or five. Tickets for parents and toddlers aged 4 and under are priced at £14.95 from Monday to Friday during term time.  Special packages are also available for parties, schools, clubs and youth groups, with discounts applying to groups of 20 or more.  

Booking is recommended for skating at The Ice Factor, and an Early Bird discount of 20% off these prices is available now until 30^th September, by using the code SKATE20 at checkout, either through www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com or directly at www.ticketsource.co.uk/theicefactor.  Online booking fee applies. Tickets can also be purchased on site once the event opens, subject to availability.  Penguin and Snowman skating aids can be hired on site for £5; pre-booking is not available. 

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.

Grotto Opening times are:

Weekdays, 15 & 22 November: 11am – 5pm; 25 November to 6 December: 11am – 5pm, 9 December to 20 December: 9.30am – 5pm.

Weekends, 16 November to 22 December: Saturdays: 9.30am – 6pm & Sundays 9.30am – 5pm

23 December 10am – 6pm

Christmas Eve: 10am – 3.00pm

Tokens for the funfair can be purchased on-site. For full details of prices and times visit www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com