WINTER WONDERLANDS
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas but don’t want to blow the budget by travelling to snowier climes, then try SnowDome at Tamworth, Staffordshire. Heaps of real snow means you can indulge in alpine fun like skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing at a fraction of the cost of a snow holiday. Santa’s Winter Wonderland (November 18 to December 31) is great for children as they’ll get to throw snowballs, meet Father Christmas and his reindeer preparing for the big day, and follow the snow trail into the enchanted forest. Come on a “saver day” and tickets are only £13.95 per person. u A trip to the capital at Christmas is pure magic. As well as the lavish window displays and twinkling lights of shopping hotspots like Carnaby Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street, London has stacks of other free festive fun. Winter Festival at Southbank Centre (November 11 to January 25) sees the return of the popular winter market, perfect for a waterside stroll. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (November 18 to January 2) is an annual event now in its 10th year.
Markets abound, with more than 200 chalets to browse in the German-style market and a tempting Bavarian Village where hot sausages, spiced wine and sing-alongs will warm the cheeks. Or hop aboard the huge observation wheel for an aerial view of the sprawling, buzzing cityscape. Entry is free to Winter Wonderland, including Santa’s Grotto, but there are charges for the rides, shows and skating area. u More capital fun awaits at Winter Wonderland in Cardiff, Wales (November 10 to January 3). Twirl and pivot around the ice rink, enjoy the thrills of the funfair rides and finish with a wintry snack in the Alpine Village, all surrounded by the stunning architecture of the city’s civic centre.