Waking up early to cold weather and light rain may not be the most cheerful start to a festive day, especially when heading to an outdoor event in the UK. However, arriving at Chessington’s Winter Trail amid a downpour, my holiday spirit was quickly reignited by the sight of beautifully decorated trees and large Christmas ornaments.
The park was filled with enthusiastic elves, adding to the festive atmosphere despite the rain and fewer visitors. Watching elves perform on stage, braving the chilly weather, was a delightful experience. The beginning of the winter trail involved writing letters to Santa, with helpful elves assisting and even offering cookies baked by Mrs. Claus, much to the children’s delight.
While waiting to meet Santa, we enjoyed a silent disco with festive music and a Christmas tale audiobook. This entertainment made the queue more bearable, especially with young kids. Meeting Santa at Chessington was a highlight, as he was patient and engaging, creating a magical experience for the children.
Exploring Santa’s toy workshop with cheerful elves and receiving a plush toy souvenir added to the joy of the visit. The park also featured operational rides, including child-friendly attractions like the vintage carousel and the Gruffalo River Ride, which surprisingly thrilled even older kids.
Although we didn’t have time to visit the SEA LIFE center and zoo, the Winter Trail ticket provided access to these attractions. For lunch, we tried the barbecue Smokehouse, which offered both regular barbecue dishes and Christmas specials. Despite a bit of a wait for the food, the meals were satisfying for adults but slightly disappointing for children.
Overall, Chessington’s Christmas experience was a fantastic family outing, catering to various age groups without long queues at every activity. The event was well-organized, thanks to the dedicated team of Santa’s elves. The Winter Trail is open on selected dates until December 31, with ticket prices starting from £34 per person for the Winter Trail and Christmas Village.
