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Skating and festive fun at The Winter Gardens in Beckenham Place Park

Lewisham’s first all-weather ice rink will be the sparkling centrepiece of a brand-new winter festival this year.

The Winter Gardens will run in Beckenham Place Park from Saturday 15 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, offering a magical festive experience for all ages. Entry is free, with some activities ticketed.

Supported by Lewisham Council, the event transforms part of the award-winning Beckenham Place Park into a wintry wonderland packed with seasonal attractions.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Indoor ice skating – Lewisham’s first covered rink with themed sessions including retro nights and family fun
  • The Revel Puck Circus – East London’s award-winning troupe brings thrilling performances full of storytelling and skill
  • Festive funfair – Over 15 rides including Santa’s Runaway Train and reindeer flying planes
  • Christmas market – Local crafts, handmade gifts and seasonal treats from over 15 stalls
  • Plonk Golf – A 9-hole Christmas-themed crazy golf course with glowing lights and festive obstacles
  • Christmas Trees by O’ Christmas Tree – Beautiful trees and decorations from London’s premier Christmas tree retailer

Food and drink options range from Yorkshire pudding wraps and gourmet burgers to churros, crepes and traditional sweets. The site is dog-friendly, with complimentary pup-a-chinos and a visit to Eddie’s Dog Shop in the Homestead Courtyard.

The Winter Lodge is a covered area which features three distinct zones for seasonal fun including an adults-only retreat with mulled wine, festive cocktails, and live music; a cosy family area offering board games, Christmas films, and mocktails; and The Hideaway – a vibrant games bar for teens and adults with table tennis, pool and weekend UV gaming.

The Homestead Courtyard will host carol singing, live music, and festive shopping, with delicious mulled wine, hot chocolate and pizza available at the Homestead Café. Young families can visit Santa in his Grotto by booking a slot in advance. And, in the spirit of giving, visitors are encouraged to make donations to local charity the Lewisham Donation Hub, which will have a dedicated space at the festival.

Cllr Louise Krupski – Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Climate Action – said:

“It’s brilliant to see one of our most iconic parks transformed into a festive wonderland. The Winter Gardens will be unlike anything else in South London – with free entry and a brilliant mix of activities for all ages, from our very first covered ice rink and thrilling circus performances to festive markets, fairground rides and delicious seasonal food. I’m especially excited about the ice rink – it’s a fantastic addition that really brings the magic of winter to life. I really hope residents will come down with friends and family to have fun, enjoy the atmosphere, support local businesses and make some truly special memories together.”

To book tickets for ice skating and other activities at The Winter Gardens, or for more information, head to visitwintergardens.co.uk.

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