Paultons park is a winter wonderland all throughout the month of December, with decorations and events fit to fill the season with cheer and glamour. “Ah this is just magical” one visitor said, while watching the warmly lit, intricate, double-tiered carousel spinning in the rain. 

 

Upon having the opportunity to visit Paultons Park during it’s most enchanting season, I became instantly aware of the enticing atmosphere: with each area clad in baubles regardless of the theme. You could imagine this to be tasteless or tacky but it was instead quite the opposite. Upon entering, I was greeted with a grand Christmas tree speckled with golden and red shimmering baubles, beside the startlingly large toy shop that is filled with teddies and sweets galore. Further on I was greeted into Tornado Springs with continued festive décor, which fit the whole experience so well it was as though it was a local, mid-western town’s Christmas in the USA.  This section of the park included the ride Storm Chaser; twisting and thrilling for all with a streak for adventure. Storm Chaser- a rollercoaster that begins by raising you slowly upwards, some backwards, before hurtling around the sandy coloured track- was the first ride I tried since the age of around 5 and quickly indoctrinated me again into the exciting atmosphere of Paultons. Additionally, the Cyclonator also inhabits Tornado Springs and is suited to any and all daredevils ranging from bubbly children to steel nerved forty-year-olds; mirroring the hectic nature of a Tornado that so many seek and chase after.

 

After walking along paths guided by elegantly crafted hedges in a multitude of extravagant shapes, we were greeted with a huge variety of animals that are sparsely seen elsewhere. Shocking, delightful, immersive: this was a treat that was unexpected for what we imagined a simple theme park. Upon their signature on legged stance, the flamingos appeared as though they were stuck into the floor because of the tranquility of their balance, yet they were a much kinder shade of pink in person. Contrastingly, the tortoises were baffling in size – just as curious for children as for adults. 

 

As I have mentioned before, all ages are catered to quite carefully: more sophisticated decorations hand in hand with cute, Christmassy instillations perfect for little visitors. I (at the ripe age of fifteen) was desperate to ride the carousel; well known as a childhood experience. Despite this, I was enticed - not only by the overwhelming feeling of nostalgia - but by the warm glow of the lights that layered each surface of it. It was truly surreal. As well as the already festive appearance of the park being particularly appealing to children in some areas, a show was put on by elves, Santa and Rudolf for whole families to watch. Included in this, ducks that came to shelter from the rain seemed to take a particular interest in watching the merry show unfold with the large crowd that gathered.

 

So will you enjoy this Christmas?