Monday 3 December 2012

VisitEastbourne’s trip to the Enchanted Zoo

This weekend just passed saw the grand opening of the Drusillas Park Winter Wonderland Illuminations and VE were invited to take a peek!
Having visited Drusillas many times before I was really excited in anticipation to see what new additions had been added for this festive season this year. There certainly was no denying that on paper the new attractions sounded to be quite something. From hugging a Husky, festive winter warmer treats for the stomach and the pinnacle of the show; the Winter Wonderland Illuminations.

After touring the zoo itself and seeing all the incredible and different animals up close and personal, some extra close such as the Lemurs through the walk around Lemurland it was time to head for what we had come for…the Winter Wonderland arena. Going around the park we had sneak peaks of what was in store however when we set eyes upon the full display, Wow – we were blown away! A giant Santa’s grotto arena with giant reindeer and sleigh, Father & Mrs Christmas greeting little ones with surprises wrapped in paper! Not forgetting the jovial Santa’s little helper, the elf! It really was magical and like we had been transported to Lapland. Whilst waiting for the main display of the lights, we took full opportunity to grab something to eat in Explorers Restaurant. It was simply delightful, the food was delicious and the staff extremely pleasant and always very willing to help and extra friendly with the children.
Father&Mrs Christmas with his helpful elf
After we headed for the illuminations, there was just enough time to grab some delectable delights from Station Buffet including Mince Pies, Cinnamon coated Donuts and what would be required to keep us warm during the show – Mulled Wine!! Mmm

The Incredible Winter Wonderland Illuminations at Drusillas Park

Before we knew it the day had gone so fast and it was time to head over to the illuminations site. What happened next was simply magical. The whole atmosphere changed and it was one of the most festive experiences of my life. Christmas carols played to a packed out crowd of people as the winter lights started twinkling and glistening. Polar Bears and Penguins started glistening in the crystal black sky and the enchanted mystical icy river started to flow through the ice-capped kingdom. It was amazing and from this we could see easily why it’s creator, Paul Toole has been called ‘King of the Lights.’ All these fantastic lights were carefully choreographed to music and the extra special large screen of The Muppets gave the kids something to chuckle along to! Looking around, the looks on the faces of the children was something extra special and filled everyone with warmth. Their amazement at seeing such an experience was just pure wonder and something that I’m sure will have filled not only us, but them too with Christmas spirit. The only thing it left us wanting was a return visit and the moment when Father Christmas comes and squeezes himself down the chimney whilst Prancer, Rudolf & Co munch on the carrots left by the bed!
Twinkling Polar Bears & Penguins



A trip to Drusillas Park this Christmas is a must! Everything is epic and so perfectly thought out from start to finish. It’s Christmassy enough that even the biggest Scrooge would love it! If you would like to win a family ticket to Drusillas this Christmas, simply visit the VisitEastbourne Competition website here.
Located just off the A27, Drusillas Park is open from 10:00am until 5:00pm daily, with the exception of 24th, 25th and 26th December.  For further details please telephone (01323) 874100 or visit the website at www.drusillas.co.uk

No comments:

Post a Comment