7 Great Alternatives To Winter Wonderland

While Winter Wonderland might be on people's radar during this holiday season, not everyone wants to queue for drinks and lose all their mates in the market. Luckily for you, there are still plenty of other events hoping to fill that festive hole. From smaller Christmas pop-ups offering themed drinks to stunning light installations and fondue in an igloo, we've rounded up the season's best alternatives to Winter Wonderland in London.

Skylight 

A spot with a passion for all things polar, Skylight is bringing all the fun with Europe’s only rooftop ice rink. Alongside spins and slips for 45-minute sessions, you can cosy up with a hot chocolate or cup of mulled wine while tucking into an Alpine menu of seasonal eats. Oh, and did we mention the igloos? They come decked out with faux-fur throws and woolly blankets.

Skylight Alternative Winter Wonderland London | DesignMyNight

Take in the view as you work your way around this rooftop ice rink.

Winterland

Can’t make it out to Val-d’Isere? Get your après ski fix down at the Val-de Wandsworth Bridge as Winterland returns to the waterfront with your designated Alpine escape. This year, the Fulham pop-up will have it all, from DJs and dancing to plush booths for snuggling and a drool-worthy fondue experience. If that doesn't wet your whistle, there will also be festive bottomless drinks to get stuck into.

Neverland Winterland London | DesignMyNight

Expect toasty fireplaces at one of the best alternatives to Winter Wonderland in London.

Fire & Fromage

For one of the most sought-after table bookings in the capital, pop-up Jimmy's Winter Fire & Fromage is back with the ultimate winter warmer. Head over to Southbank and chow down on ooey gooey cheese fondue or raclette while admiring views of the iconic Thames. All this takes place in the dreamy dining domes filled with blankets and plush throws. The snuggle is real.

Jimmys Winter Snow Globes 2023 | DesignMyNight

These igloos make for one of the best Winter Wonderland alternatives in the UK.

The Montague On The Gardens Ski Lodge

You can leave the snowsuits in the wardrobe for another year because this fun winter pop-up in London is bringing plenty of aprés without the need for the ski. The ideal destination for small groups, The Ski Lodge is an annual installation at The Montague On The Gardens hotel and it offers the prettiest festive experiences complete with schnapps, seasonal snacks and a whole lotta fake snow.

Montague On The Gardens Ski Lodge London | DesignMyNight

This aprés ski affair is perfect for small groups.

Pergola Deck The Halls

Taking place in Paddington, Pergola Deck The Halls is a must-visit for the Crimbo-heads among us. Guests to the pop-up will be treated to a venue flaunting twinkly lights, baubles and trees covered in snow. In addition, there will be Alpine-themed food specials up for grabs including boozy cheese fondue and German bratwurst.

Pergola Paddington Deck The Halls Christmas Events | DesignMyNight

For Christmas events for adults? This one is a real winner.

Tipis On The Green

If you're looking for an alternative to Winter Wonderland for adults, Tipis On The Green is oozing serious Crimbo vibes. From the 17th of November to the 22nd of December, the pop-up boasts traditional wood panelling and fire pit tables - ideal for cuddling. Plus, there will be a tonne of eats and seasonal sips from Baileys hot chocolate to mulled wine and French diot sausages.

Tipis On The Green Alternatives Winter Wonderland London | DesignMyNight

For similar places like Winter Wonderland in the UK, this beaut has everything you need.

Christmas At Kew

The more wholesome way to do festive fun this year, Christmas At Kew's glow-up is much more than just a gathering for families and those couples who feel the need to be touching at all times. They're adding extra slots this year, so you'll be able to marvel at the most categorically Instagrammable trees. One of the best cheap alternatives to Winter Wonderland in London? Sounds about light.

Christmas At Kew 2023 London Winter Lights | DesignMyNight

To catch London's most phenomenal light show, tickets are just £19.50 during off-peak times.

If you're looking for more winter pop-ups, we've got a guide to the very best of them and for more London inspo, sign up to our weekly newsletter.