THE WINTER Glow extravaganza at Malvern’s Three Counties Showground is now under way and runs until January 6.
If you’re anything like our family, at this time of year, you start to look around for places to go and attractions to visit to help you get into the Christmas spirit as we countdown to the big day.
We – a family of four – headed down to check out what was on offer at this festive wonderland.
As you walk up to the gates, you can see the impressive light displays and the big wheel. Then as soon as you walk in, with the festive decorations, trees and Christmas classic songs playing, you cannot help but feel Christmassy.
Christmas Market
On arrival, we had a look around and started at the Christmas Market. It was packed full of stalls by talented local crafters, offering a range of items, including candles, wax melts, lip balms, ornaments, stockings for pets, wooden creations, wreaths, alpaca wool clothing and more.
The Christmas Market is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Ice Rink
Next up we went to expel a bit of energy on the ice rink. We don’t often go ice skating so this was a fantastic festive treat.
You can’t beat ice skating at this time of year, wrapped up warm, going around the rink. There are also whale figure ‘skate aids’ for children aged three to 10 to help them keep their balance until they find their ‘ice feet’.
Picture by Tristan Harris.The size of the rink – one of the biggest in the West Midlands – is also great with plenty of space for everyone and with the tunes belting out, there is a really good atmosphere on the ice.
The Festive Light Trail
We have been around quite a few light trails and this one was by far the best.
On the long trail there are plenty of quirky displays, including stars, candy canes, reindeer, stars, angels, Christmas trees, a dragon, light tunnels to walk through and more.
Picture by Tristan Harris.As well as that, there are display boards at each display, telling the story of Jingle the Elf and his quest for the golden snowflake.
Picture by Tristan Harris.On each of the boards are other features, including quizzes, jokes, riddles and other games, such as ‘spot the difference’ and count the snow flakes in the picture.
Picture by Tristan Harris.Traditional funfair
The illuminated light trail leads you out to the funfair where there are a variety of rides for all tastes.
Whether it is the slower teacup style rides, spinney rides for thrill-seekers or the big wheel with its stunning views – you will find something to get the adrenaline flowing.
Food Quarter, Cafe and Ice Cafe and Jingle Bar
After all these activities, it is easy to be hungry and thirsty and there are plenty of festive delights, street food and other delicacies to enjoy.
The Ice Cafe and Jingle Bars has beer, wine, spirits, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and mulled wine.
The Food Quarter boasts a number of stalls from burgers, Greek cuisine and Yorkshire pudding wraps, pizza and vegetarian options to doughnuts, crepes, chestnuts, crumble pots, ice cream and other sweet treats.
Our time at Winter Glow
We spent close to four hours at Winter Glow, making plenty of memories and taking a flurry of photographs during our evening.
Out of the four of us, we each loved something different which clearly shows there is something to suit all tastes and for all the family at Winter Glow.
As well as all this, parking is free with every ticket and there are also Personalised Santa Experiences, Ice Princess and Superhero Parties, private bookings and special bookings for groups and schools.
Visit winterglow.co.uk for more information and prices.
