From rides to a real ice rink, here is all you need to know ahead of Winter Wonderland Norwich 2023 at the Norfolk Showground. 

What are the dates and timings for Winter Wonderland?

Winter Wonderland is back for its second year at the Norfolk Showground, on the outskirts of the city, and it will be open from Friday, November 17 2023 until Wednesday, January 3 2024. 

During term time, it will be open from 4pm to 9pm Monday to Thursday and 4pm to 10pm on Fridays.

Throughout the run, it will be open from 11am to 10pm on Saturdays and 11am to 8pm or 9pm on Sundays. 

From December 22 onwards it will open from 11am daily (closing times vary) - except Christmas Day when it is closed and it will open from 12noon on Boxing Day. 

READ MORE: 7 FREE things to do in Norfolk over October half-term

Eastern Daily Press: Winter Wonderland 2022 at the Norfolk Showground Picture: Denise BradleyWinter Wonderland 2022 at the Norfolk Showground Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

How can I get there and is there parking? 

The address is Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, New Costessey, NR5 0TT, located just off the A47, and there is free on-site parking. 

Konectbus Service Number 4 and First Eastern Counties Excel Buses stop outside the Norfolk Showground. 

What can I expect?

There is something for all ages at Winter Wonderland and there will be lots of fairground attractions and rides, including dodgems, the Sky Swing and a giant observation wheel. 

Ride credits can be purchased in advance online or from an on-site booth.

Other highlights include a real ice rink, Santa's Grotto and, new for 2023, a real Christmas tree maze. 

Eastern Daily Press: The Santa's grotto at the Norfolk Showground Picture: Denise BradleyThe Santa's grotto at the Norfolk Showground Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

How much does ice skating and the Santa's Grotto cost? 

Ice skating costs from £9.50 for ages 12 and under and from £13.50 for ages 13+ - sessions last an hour and include skate hire. 

Wheelchairs are allowed on the ice and there are ramps both in and out of the skating marquee and on and off the rink. 

The Santa's Grotto includes a gift for every child and it costs £10.50, with entry for two accompanying adults.

Pre-booking a slot is advised for both of these activities. 

READ MORE: 7 of the best Norfolk pick-your-own pumpkin patches in 2023

What food and drink is available? 

There will be lots of festive food and drink to enjoy at the event, ranging from waffles and bratwurst to mulled wine and hot chocolate. 

Eastern Daily Press: There are plenty of rides at Winter Wonderland Norwich Picture: Denise BradleyThere are plenty of rides at Winter Wonderland Norwich Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)

Are dogs allowed? 

Only guide dogs are allowed at Winter Wonderland Norwich. 

How much is entry and where can I buy tickets? 

Entry tickets cost £4 for children and £5 for teens and adults and under 2s go free - book at winterwonderlandnorwich.com

You then get free return entry for the duration of the event.