A massive winter festival – with an ice rink – is coming to southeast London

The gargantuan Beckenham Place Park is an icon of London’s deep southeast, a vast space that dwarfs Hyde Park and has had some serious investment put into it in recent years by Lewisham council. It’s played host to events for years now, and in a typical year you’ll probably get circuses, funfairs and the odd music festival.

Nothing, though, quite so big as the Winter Gardens, a huge new seasonal event – dare we call it the Winter Wonderland of Zone 4 – that brings together a thrilling array of fun festive things into Beckenham Place Park’s vastness. The Gardens will include: Lewisham’s first covered ice rink; performances from regular BPP winter visitors the Revel Puck Circus; a Christmas market and Christmas tree vendor; a Christmas-themed crazy golf; plus bars, games areas and various food options.

Entry will be free although inevitably the ice skating, golf and circus are all ticketed (and can be booked for online in advance).

There are, on the whole, probably slightly more magical festive sights than Lewisham in the winter – but the Winter Gardens should give it that bit of extra sparkle.

The Winter Gardens are at Beckenham Place Park, Nov 15-Jan 4 2026. Book tickets for the ice rink, golf and circus here.

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Plus: the top London Christmas activities for kids.