A beautiful sight, we were happy last night.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland? That’s exactly what we did – and here’s why you should too.
10
10
10
Simply, it was a fantastic night which – even at this relatively early stage, if I do say so myself – is sure to put you right in the Christmas spirit.
And stay behind to the end for something – and someone – brand new which is my personal favourite.
As Valley View at Gouldings in Clyde Valley get ready to open their doors to the public today, my wife Joanne, two sons Oscar and Ollie, and I were fortunate enough to get a little sneak peak at what is in store.
The business operates several well-attended, themed events throughout the year, and their Christmas events are no different.
Breakfast with Santa has already long sold out and there’s only limited spaces left for Supper with Santa too.
The Winter Wonderland event won Best Grotto in the UK in 2022 and look destined to follow-up last year, though were still a super impressive Silver Award in 2023.
10
10
10
They’ve upgraded and gone the extra mile this year and it’ll take something really special to pip them this time around.
Even though pictures never do anything justice, hopefully this first look will demonstrate just how good a day or night out this is.
And if you’re already booked in and don’t want any spoilers, look away now!
You’re greeted by the return of the beautiful 30,000-bulb light tunnel, before a couple more attractions before you even get inside.
For 22 years now, the nativity scene has greeted punters, with the Christmas story very much one they take great pride in.
Then, it’s onto the walkthrough with some added elements from last year, though the old favourites including the singing reindeer, Santa’s rock band, mail room and singing penguins all return.
Santa’s postbox allows you to send off your letters to the big man, before a wishing well collecting any coins you may have.
Between them, Goulding’s and Valley View have raised a quite incredible £153,700 for St Andrew’s Hospice.
There’s a chance to hear more Christmas classics and stories from a giant bear before a real white, Christmassy scene greets you with penguins dancing and some huge polar bears.
The last part of this area sees you take a walk through Santa’s workshop, where you can see again the intricate attention to detail that owner George and son John strive for.
Then, a chance to meet the big man himself – Santa that is, not George. You’re afforded a really good amount of time inside a cosy room, with Santa taking the time to ask questions before a group picture.
Winter Wonderland – Valley View & Goulding’s
- Where: Valley View at Goulding’s, Clyde Valley
- When: Opens today – Saturday November 23rd
- Prices: Children – £22.95, Adults – £12.95, Under 1’s £9.95
- Tickets available: Available here
That was obviously the highlight for Oscar and Ollie, though when leaving there it was onto the toy shop to pick a toy each, which was a very, very close second!
The toys are out in display for the children to collect, rather than wrapped up and given by Santa so as not to disappoint children with their gift – whether it be the toy itself or the colour.
After an eternity in there with Ollie the most indecisive child imaginable, we collected our snow block and bauble from the photos collected along the way and headed through to the final leg.
Here, there’s several fairground rides for the children to ride away to their heart’s content – included in the cost of their ticket, while adults can collect their hot drink and shortbread included in theirs.
I went for a latte which was perfectly fine but there was instant regret at seeing Joanne being served her hot chocolate. I won’t make that mistake again!
Now, onto my highlight. The brand new Mrs Claus’ Enchanted Elevator.
On entering the elevator you’re transported down through levels before ‘flying’ through a magical, wintery scene that is the North Pole and onto Mrs Claus’ house.
Despite the name, it was still a huge shock to exit the elevator with Mrs Claus opening the door and walking out into her living room. The boys again in awe and buzzing with their picture.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
On exiting, don’t forget to pick up some marshmallows on the way to toast on the open fire – and say hello and feed the reindeer too!
Owner George Goulding said: “We’re delighted to be hosting our 23rd year of the popular Winter Wonderland and are looking forward to welcoming visitors, old and new”.
10
10
10
10
