Details of Chorley's Winter Wonderland announced!
Chorley’s magical Winter Wonderland is officially returning to the town centre this Christmas, and the plans for this year are bigger, brighter and more festive than ever. From Saturday 13 December to Sunday 4 January (closed on Christmas Day), Cleveland Street Car Park — directly opposite Chorley Town Hall — will once again transform into a sparkling festive attraction featuring a real ice rink, cosy tipis and fun children’s rides. Sponsored by Market Walk and Park Hall Hotel & Spa, Winter Wonderland promises a fantastic day out for families, friends and festive explorers of all ages.
This much-loved event has become a highlight of Chorley’s Christmas calendar, drawing visitors from across the borough and beyond. Whether you come for the skating, the atmosphere, the warm winter drinks or simply a festive wander, this year’s Winter Wonderland is shaping up to be the best yet.
The Real Ice Rink Returns
The covered 60ft by 40ft real ice rink is back and ready for visitors throughout the full Winter Wonderland period. With sessions running on the hour, each booking includes 45 minutes on the ice and 15 minutes for putting skates on and taking them off. There’s no need to book in advance — simply turn up and enjoy the experience, unless you’re attending as a school or community group, in which case enquiries can be made by emailing events@chorley.gov.uk.
Standard skate sessions are priced at £8 per person, while families can take advantage of the special ticket for £25, which covers two adults and two children. Skate hire is included at no extra charge, and penguin skating aids are available to help younger visitors feel confident on the ice. Both cash and card payments are welcome, keeping things easy and convenient on the day.
The rink will be open from 10am on the opening Saturday, with a range of session times that vary slightly each day. The schedule includes late-night skating on selected evenings, earlier family-friendly finishes, and special holiday hours for Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Whether you’re planning a daytime family trip or an evening out with friends, there’s a session to suit every plan.
Festive Tipis for Food, Drink & Winter Warmth
The festive tipis add a wonderful atmosphere to Winter Wonderland, offering a cosy retreat from the cold with a range of drinks available every day from 11am until late. It’s the perfect place to relax after skating or to spend time with friends in a warm and inviting setting surrounded by fairy lights and festive décor. At weekends, freshly prepared pizzas from the onsite pizza oven will be available, adding something delicious to enjoy alongside your winter drink of choice.
Whether you’re stopping by for a mulled drink, sitting around the fire with friends or simply enjoying the ambience, the tipis create a charming winter experience at the heart of the event.
Children’s Attractions & Family Fun
Winter Wonderland is also packed with children’s entertainment, including the popular Alpine Fun House and a selection of fairground rides designed to delight younger visitors. With both cash and card payments accepted across the attractions, it’s an easy and enjoyable day out for families. The mix of skating, rides and festive atmosphere makes this a perfect activity to enjoy during the Christmas holidays.
Easy Access & Helpful Facilities
Visitors will find two entrances to Winter Wonderland. The main entrance is directly across from Chorley Town Hall on the corner of High Street and offers step-free access, making it suitable for prams, wheelchairs and anyone needing level entry. There is also a smaller entrance located behind the festive tipis on the corner of Cleveland Street and High Street, though this entrance is accessed via steps.
Inside the event area, toilet facilities are available, including a disabled toilet to ensure comfort and accessibility for everyone attending.
Free Parking Throughout December
Getting to Winter Wonderland is straightforward, and Chorley town centre offers generous parking incentives during the festive season. From 8 to 24 December (inclusive), visitors can enjoy up to three hours of free parking in most council-run town centre car parks. The Flat Iron Car Park provides two hours of free parking, while all other council-run car parks offer three free hours. Visitors simply need to display a time-of-arrival ticket and ensure they remain within the maximum stay limit for each car park.
This makes it easier than ever to enjoy a full day out — whether you’re skating, shopping, exploring the markets or relaxing with a warm drink in town.
A Magical Christmas Awaits
Winter Wonderland brings festive cheer, laughter and a warming sense of community to Chorley every year. With the return of the real ice rink, the glow of the festive tipis, exciting children’s attractions and the charm of Chorley town centre just steps away, this year’s event promises unforgettable memories for families and friends alike.
As the countdown begins, wrap up warm, gather your loved ones and get ready to experience the magic — Winter Wonderland is on its way, and it’s set to make Christmas in Chorley truly sparkle.
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Chorley’s magical Winter Wonderland is officially returning to the town centre this Christmas, and the plans for this year are bigger, brighter and more festive than ever.