Enchanted Winter Garden returns to Antrim Castle Gardens with new rides and festive attractions
Tuesday 13 October 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens will be transformed into a spectacular festive wonderland this December as the popular Enchanted Winter Garden returns with new rides, dazzling light displays and a host of Christmas attractions for families.
Running from 2 to 28 December, the event will also offer discounted tickets for Antrim and Newtownabbey residents, dedicated inclusive evenings and free shuttle buses to help visitors enjoy the festivities.
With tickets starting at £6.50 for eligible local children, families can now choose their preferred dates and time slots, with organisers encouraging early booking.
Festive attractions and new surprises
Visitors will be able to explore the illuminated Enchanted Way, enjoy seasonal food at the Festive Food Fayre and take in views of the gardens from the Giant Wheel.
The Wave Swinger will return alongside new rides being introduced for this year's event, while younger visitors can look forward to meeting Santa in his grotto.
The Christmas experience will continue beyond 25 December, with the Grinch returning to entertain visitors after Santa has departed for the North Pole.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, welcomed the return of the attraction.
He said:
“Enchanted Winter Garden is a wonderful way for families and friends to come together. I look forward to welcoming visitors to Antrim and Newtownabbey to experience the festive atmosphere and all that our Borough has to offer this Christmas.”
Dedicated inclusive evenings
Two special evenings will provide a quieter and more accessible experience for visitors who may find the usual crowds, lighting and noise overwhelming.
An Evening of Inclusive Enchantment will take place on Thursday 3 December and Wednesday 9 December, with adjustments designed to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
These will include:
• Reduced visitor capacity.
• Static lighting displays.
• Lower sound levels throughout the event.
• Dedicated sensory and quiet rooms.
• Slower-paced rides.
Mobility scooters and wheelchairs will also be available to hire by appointment, while Changing Places facilities will be provided on site.
Ticket prices and local resident discounts
Antrim and Newtownabbey residents can benefit from substantially reduced admission prices, with a family ticket costing £26.50 compared with the standard £46.50 rate.
Standard admission prices are:
• Adult – £15.50.
• Child aged 2–17 – £10.50.
• Children under 2 – Free admission, with a 50p booking fee.
• Family ticket – £46.50.
Discounted admission for Antrim and Newtownabbey residents:
• Adult – £8.50.
• Child aged 2–17 – £6.50.
• Children under 2 – Free admission, with a 50p booking fee.
• Family ticket – £26.50.
A family ticket covers either one adult and three children or two adults and two children.
For eligible residents, the discounted family ticket represents a saving of £20 compared with standard admission, while individual adult tickets are £7 cheaper and children's tickets are £4 less.
Free shuttle buses and booking information
Free shuttle buses will operate from The Junction Retail and Leisure Park, taking visitors directly to the entrance of Antrim Castle Gardens.
The service will provide an alternative to travelling directly to the venue, particularly for families attending during the busy festive period.
Enchanted Winter Garden runs from Wednesday 2 December until Monday 28 December 2026, with visitors able to select their preferred date and time slot when booking.
Tickets can be booked online at enchantedwintergarden.com.
With discounted local admission, accessible sessions and attractions continuing after Christmas Day, this year's Enchanted Winter Garden offers families opportunities to enjoy the festive season throughout December. Early booking will give visitors the best chance of securing their preferred session.
