22ND NOVEMBER TO 4TH JANUARY

FAQs

General Information

Festive Period Opening Hours

We’re open daily from 11am – 11pm, except on:

25th December (Christmas Day): Rink closed
26th December (Boxing Day): Last sessions at 10pm
31st December (New Year’s Eve): Last sessions at 10pm
1st January (New Year’s Day): Last sessions at 10pm

When is the Winter Gardens open?

Opening Saturday 22nd November 2025, with festive fun including:

Ice skating rink
Plonk Golf
Funfair rides
Christmas market stalls
Christmas trees
Festive bars

Do I need to pay to enter the Winter Gardens?

No. Entry is completely free and non-ticketed. The event spans the large area opposite the Homestead Courtyard in Beckenham Place Park.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, we’re dog friendly. Plus, pups get a free puppuccino with every full-priced hot drink.

Should I bring ID?

If you’re lucky enough to look under 25, you’ll need valid photo ID to purchase alcohol or enter adult-only areas.

Ice Skating

Tickets, Booking, and Arrival

When is the Ice Rink open? We’re open daily from 11am – 11pm, and 9am on selected Peak Days except on:

25th December (Christmas Day): Rink Closed
26th December (Boxing Day): Last sessions at 10pm
31st December (New Year’s Eve): Last sessions at 10pm

How do I book tickets?

Tickets must be booked online in advance to guarantee your slot. If space is available, you may book on your device up until the session time.

How do I receive my tickets?

Tickets are emailed to you. Please bring a printout or show them on your device at check-in.

How long is each skating session?

Each session lasts 45 minutes and starts promptly on the hour.

What time should I arrive?

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your session for check-in and skate fitting. For other sessions, arriving at least 40 minutes early is advised for skate fitting.

What happens if I arrive late or miss my session?

Late arrivals can skate the remainder of their booked session, but you won’t be refunded or allowed to extend your time. Missed sessions cannot be refunded or rescheduled.

Can I book group or exclusive rink sessions?

Yes, exclusive use and group sessions are available subject to booking and availability.

Can I get a refund or swap my session?

We do not offer refunds or exchanges on bookings. If the rink must close for operational reasons, you will be able to transfer your booking to another available date.

Skates and Skate Aids

Is skate hire included in my ticket?

Yes, skate hire is included in the ticket price.

What size skates are available?

We supply skates from child’s UK size 7/8 (EU 25) to adult’s size 15. This includes limited double-bladed “Bob” skates for younger children, starting from child size 6.

Can I use my own skates?

Yes! Figure and hockey skates are permitted. However, no discount is given for using your own skates.

What should I wear?

Dress warmly in comfortable layers. Long socks and gloves are highly recommended. Avoid long scarves or loose clothing and denim, as it can get wet.

Age, Supervision, and Accessibility

What’s the minimum age to skate?

The minimum age is 3 years. Child tickets cover ages 3-12. Children under 3 are not recommended to skate, and entry is at the discretion of rink management.

Are children required to be supervised?

Children aged 8 or under require adult supervision on the ice. Children aged 9-12 must have an adult present in the spectator area. All children must be accompanied by an adult (18+).

Are skating lessons available?

No, skating lessons are not offered at this venue.

Are skate aids available?

Yes, both “Penguinpush-along and “Bananasit-on aids are available for children to hire. A Penguin aid costs £6 and is recommended for children under 1m tall (in skates). Aids are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and booking in advance is advised due to limited supply.

Are there special sessions for children or skaters with additional needs?

Yes. We run “Little Penguin” sessions for new or younger skaters and Accessible Sessions with reduced lighting, music, and rink capacity.

Are wheelchairs allowed on the ice?

Yes, wheelchairs are permitted when accompanied by a carer (who must wear skates or crampons). Both manual and electric wheelchairs are allowed (electric must be in manual mode only).

How do I hire a carer ticket for standard sessions?

Book your group (excluding the carer), then email your booking and supporting carer documentation to our team at least 48 hours before skating. Carers go free with valid documentation (such as DLA/PIP letters, disability cards, or a Blue Badge).

Rink Information and On-Site Amenities

Is the ice real or synthetic?

Our rink uses real, professionally maintained ice.

Is wet ice dangerous?

No. Wet ice is safe to skate on. Weather may affect the surface, but our rink team monitors safety at all times.

Where do I go on arrival?

Follow venue signage to the ice rink check-in. At the end of your session, please leave the ice promptly for safe resurfacing.

Where can I leave belongings?

Your shoes are stored while you skate. Bags are not permitted on the ice, and there are no lockers—please leave valuables at home. Management is not responsible for personal items.

Which amenities are on site?

We offer hot and cold food, drinks (including mulled wine), and café seating near the rink. Allergen info is available on request.

Is there spectator seating?

Yes! Non-skaters can watch from the viewing area and enjoy refreshments.

Is there music?

We play music throughout each session. Accessible Sessions have reduced sound.

Can I bring my dog?

Only assistance dogs are permitted at the venue.

Can I smoke or vape at the rink?

No, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited at the venue.

Can I use a phone or camera on the ice?

For your safety, phones and cameras should not be used while skating.

Safety and Rules

Is there a risk in skating? Are there rules?

All skaters participate at their own risk. Please follow our 10 rules (posted at the rink) and the instructions of the ice marshals at all times. Tricks, skating backwards, speed skating, and “human chains” are not allowed.

What happens in case of an emergency or fire?

Follow all instructions from rink marshals and head to the designated assembly points.

Who do I contact for help?

Our staff and ice marshals are always nearby if you need assistance. For ticketing issues, please email our support team info@visitwintergardens.co.uk

Ticket Information

Why book online?

Booking online gives you:

Access to the best time slots
Bonus offers and discounts
Priority for free giveaways

How can I buy tickets?

Book online in advance
Or buy from the on-site box office (subject to availability)
Transaction fees apply

Can I refund or reschedule?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-reschedulable
You may gift your ticket to a friend or family member

Who do I contact for ticket questions?

What is a family ticket?

Covers either:

2 adults + 2 children
1 adult + 3 children

What is a child ticket?

Valid for ages 3–12, with an accompanying adult (18+)

Do you offer student tickets?

Yes – available Monday to Thursday up to 11th December 2025.
Valid Student ID required.

Do I need to print my ticket?

No – simply show your ticket on your mobile device.

Do you accept walk-ins?

Yes – walk-ins are welcome, but pre-booked ticket holders receive priority.
Saturdays are busy, so advance booking is recommended.

The Winter Lodge & Rascals

Do I need to book to enter the Winter Lodge or Rascals?

No, but we recommend arriving early – both spaces can get busy.

Is the Winter Lodge 18+ only?

Yes – the Lodge is exclusively for over 18s.

Is Rascals family-friendly?

Yes – a dedicated family area is available within the Winter Lodge.

Can anyone book activities in the Hideaway?

Yes – book at the Bar & Activities Desk located inside Rascals.

Plonk Golf

Is the golf course indoors?

Yes – check in at the side entrance near the bar. Read the rules and collect your clubs from the host.

How long does a round take?

Typically 30 to 60 minutes, depending on group size and skill.
No time limits – enjoy at your own pace.

What is a Plonk family ticket?

Covers either:

2 adults + 2 children
1 adult + 3 children

What if I’m running late?

We’ll do our best to fit you in. If you’re only 10–15 minutes late, it’s usually not a problem.
Significantly late arrivals may need to wait, especially on busy days.

What should I bring?

We provide all equipment, scorecards, and assistance.
Wear comfortable shoes – heels are not recommended.

We provides all putters; bringing personal golf clubs is not allowed

Booking and Group Policies

Up to 6 people can play in a group at one hole; larger groups will be split into groups of 6, playing before or after each other.

Walk-ins are accepted if there is available space, but not guaranteed. For groups over 13, special arrangements must be made.

Funfair

Can I go on rides with my children?

Yes – some rides allow adults. Check with ride operators and observe height restrictions.

How many tokens is each ride?

Varies by ride 3 – 5 tokens

How many rides are there?

There are numerous rides across the Winter Gardens, perfect for keeping children entertained.

Christmas Market

How many stalls are there?

We have 15 amazing Christmas stalls offering authentic seasonal gifts and treats.

What are the market hours?

Open daily from 11am to 11pm, with these exceptions:

25th December (Christmas Day): Closed
26th December (Boxing Day): Closes at 10pm
31st December (New Year’s Eve): Closes at 10pm
1st January (New Year’s Day): Closes at 10pm

Revel Puck Circus

What is access like?

We want everyone to feel welcome at the Revel Puck Circus!

There are two wheelchair-accessible spaces in the seating bank, with ramp access.

Most seats are reached by stairs, but there are 12 step-free seats available, just let one of our ushers know when you arrive and they’ll guide you to them.

There’s also buggy parking available inside the Big Top.

Will it be cold inside the tent?

Nope! We’ve got a cosy, efficient heating system to keep you warm, even on the chilliest winter nights.

What are the seats like?

You’ll be sitting on individual fold-out seats with backs — not wooden benches! They’re pretty comfy for circus seating, so you can settle in and enjoy the show.

Who are The Revel Puck Circus?

The Revel Puck Circus is a young and dynamic company, born and bred in East London who have quickly become the largest contemporary circus company in London. They strive to see and do circus differently, believing that creating work of universal appeal does not mean a sacrifice of artistic integrity, depth or entertainment.

Will there be animals?

This is an all human show and no animals are used in our performances… but was that a roar behind the curtain?

Will there be clowns?

There is one, but not like any clown you’ve met before! Expect acrobatic mishaps, humour, and heart, not red noses and cream pies.

What is The Wing Scuffle Spectacular about?

Following an international tour, The Wing Scuffle Spectacular makes its triumphant return to Lewisham as part of the Winter Gardens.
Where we balance and accommodate other bodies, extraordinary communities form. It just so happens the Pucks are 15 feet in the air, somersaulting away from the path of a swinging chainsaw and moonwalking on a tightrope.
This high skill circus show contains, acrobatics, the UK’s only teeterboard trio and physical comedy all performed with a heartfelt, hilarious and dangerous edge. The Revel Puck Circus presents The Wing Scuffle Spectacular, a tented circus show for the 21st century. A call to arms to care for each other, challenge each other and take risks together for higher reward.

Is it suitable for children?

Absolutely! The show is suitable for all ages, children, adults, and anyone who loves a bit of wonder.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

We kindly ask that you only bring food and drinks purchased from the Winter Gardens. There’ll be plenty of delicious options on site.

What’s the difference between Peak and Off-Peak tickets?

The show is exactly the same, the only difference is the ticket price. Off-peak performances are at quieter times and a little cheaper, to help keep the circus accessible to everyone.

When should I arrive?

The Big Top doors open 30 minutes before showtime, but we recommend arriving early, there’s loads to explore, eat, and enjoy at the Winter Gardens before and after the performance.

How long is the show?

The show runs for 1 hour with no interval.

When are the performances?

We’re in town from 11th December 2024 to 4th January 2025. You can see all dates and times when you click through to book tickets.

Can I bring my dog?

Only registered guide or assitance dogs are allowed inside the tent, thank you for understanding!

Can I take photos or videos?

Please do! You’re very welcome to take photos, but please no flash photography during the show. Feel free to share your pictures and tag us @revelpucks & @visitwintergardens, we love seeing your circus moments!

What should I wear?

We’re performing in Beckenham Place Park, so please wear suitable footwear for your journey to the Big Top. The tent is heated, but a cosy layer is always a good idea for comfort when coming and going.

Do I need a ticket for an under 2?

Children under 2 years old do not need a ticket for the circus

Meet Father Christmas

How long does the visit last?

Each booking includes a private 10-minute session with Father Christmas for your family. Please arrive 15 minutes before your slot to allow time for check-in.

How many people can attend each session?

Each family books one private 10-minute session with Father Christmas. Sessions can accommodate between 2 and 9 people in total. Every person aged 1 and over requires a £12 ticket, and each session must include at least one adult — but more are welcome to join.

What’s included in the ticket price?

Your ticket includes:

– Entry to The Winter Gardens grotto
– A private 10-minute visit with Father Christmas
– A small gift for each child aged 1 and over

Children under 1 are free (no gift included, optional £5 gift add-on available).

Can we take our own photos?

Yes — you’re welcome to take your own photos during your visit. You can also pre-book a professional photo package (printed and digital copy) for £10, with extra prints available for £5 each.

What are the add-on options?

You can pre-book the following extras:

– Photo Package – £10 (printed + digital photo)
– Extra Printed Copies – £5 each
– Personalised Letter from Father Christmas – £8 per child
– Under-1 Gift Add-On – £5

Add-ons must be booked in advance through our Add-On Store.

What if we arrive late?

We’ll always do our best to accommodate you, but late arrivals may lose their slot if it affects the following bookings. Please aim to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Are prams allowed inside the grotto?

Due to limited space, prams may need to be left just outside the grotto area, but they’ll remain supervised by our team of elves.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

Tickets are non-refundable.

Is there parking available?

Parking at Beckenham Place Park is limited, and normal parking charges may apply. We recommend using public transport where possible, or arriving early to allow time to park and walk to The Winter Gardens.

Is the experience accessible?

Yes — the grotto is wheelchair and buggy accessible. If you have specific access needs, please contact us before your visit so our team can assist you.

Where is the event held?

The Father Christmas experience takes place at:

The Winter Gardens, Beckenham Place Park
Please note: this experience is operated independently of The Winter Gardens venue.