The Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent has confirmed the full schedule and ticket prices for the return of its annual festive attractions: the Winterland fairground and covered ice rink. Tickets for both events are now available for purchase.
The annual event is a major seasonal fixture for the South East. The site will host fairground rides, a range of food and drink stalls, and a large, sheltered outdoor skating facility.
The ice season begins with the rink opening on Friday, 7 November. The main Winterland fairground starts on Saturday, 8 November. Both venues are set to run until the New Year. The complex is situated outside The Village shopping area, adjacent to the Zizzi restaurant.
Ice Rink: Pricing and Session Details
The ice rink forms the main component of the Bluewater Christmas programme. It provides a reliable skating surface suitable for all abilities. Booking is now open for all available sessions.
The timetable includes specialised sessions. These cater for specific needs, offering “quiet periods” for those preferring a calmer atmosphere, and dedicated slots for parents with toddlers.
Standard Ticket Prices
Peak time sessions-evenings and weekends-use standard ticket prices. The rates apply to individuals and groups:
- Standard Adult: £18.50 per person.
- Child (Ages 12 and under): £16.50 per person.
A Family Ticket is available at £62.00. This covers four people, defined as two adults and two children, or one adult and three children. Advance booking is mandatory; peak slots frequently sell out.
Special Offers and Closing Date
The rink will host its popular Party Nights again this year. These sessions feature party music accompanying the skating. Full schedules for these events are accessible via the official booking website.
An Early Bird discount rewards advance booking. Customers who secure ice rink tickets before midnight on 6 November will receive a 20 per cent reduction on all bookings. This discount does not include any existing two-for-one offers.
The ice rink operates from Friday, 7 November, until Sunday, 4 January 2026.
Winterland Fairground: Entry and Attractions
The Winterland fairground is located immediately next to the skating area.
Entry to the fairground requires a small upfront fee. Individual rides are then purchased using a token system.
Entry and Token Costs
Entry to Winterland for an adult, child, or senior costs £3.00 each. This fee permits access to the site, food stalls, and general area.
Rides need tokens. Buying a bundle of 25 tokens costs £20 online, providing a saving over purchasing tokens individually on-site. Additional tokens can be bought at the fairground throughout the operating hours.
The Observation Wheel
The attraction selection includes options for all ages. The site features classic rides like the Waltzer and bumper cars, alongside children’s rides like the Super Mario Slide and Mickey’s Train ride.
The striking observation wheel returns for 2025. Shipped from Holland, this large ride provides notable views across the Bluewater complex and the Kent landscape.
A ride on the observation wheel costs six tokens. Alternatively, an online ticket for £8.00 per person covers both the wheel ride and the mandatory general entry fee.
The Winterland fairground opens on Saturday, 8 November, and closes on Sunday, 11 January 2026.
Full Operating Times Schedule
Operating hours for both the fairground and ice rink vary across the season. Times reflect school term dates and increased holiday demand. Visitors must check the official schedule prior to travel.
Midweek and Early Season Hours
During the initial term-time phase, from Monday, 1 December, to Friday, 12 December, the fairground mainly opens late in the afternoon and evening:
- Mondays to Fridays (1-12 December): 4:00pm to 9:00pm
November weekend hours are as follows:
- Saturdays and Sundays (8-23 November): 12:00pm to 9:00pm
- Saturdays and Sundays (29-30 November and 6-7 December): 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Peak Season and Closure
Hours are extended during the Christmas and New Year period to handle peak demand:
- Saturday, 13 December, to Sunday, 4 January (excluding Christmas Day): 12:00pm to 9:00pm
The entire attraction will be closed on Christmas Day.
The final days of the event, extending into January, maintain weekend operating hours:
- Saturday, 10 January, and Sunday, 11 January (Winterland only): 12:00pm to 9:00pm
Food, Drink, and Location Details
The Winterland site includes numerous food and drink vendors.
Offerings span popular street food, including gourmet burgers, and festive sweet items like hot doughnuts, waffles, and crumbles.
Licensed bars will serve alcoholic drinks, including beers, ciders, spirits, and the seasonal favourite, mulled wine. Non-alcoholic drinks, such as hot chocolates and soft drinks, will also be available.
The location is the Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, Kent. The site outside The Village provides simple access from the main centre and car parks. Organisers advise pre-booking, particularly for the ice rink, to ensure preferred time slots and secure the initial discount.
