People from across London are set to descend on Walthamstow this Christmas season for the town’s first ever Winter Wonderland.

The market in Walthamstow Town Square Gardens will include an ice rink, a stage featuring live entertainment, amusements and street food vendors.

The grand opening event will take place at 6pm on Saturday, December 1, when the Christmas lights will be switched on.

Organisers expect to welcome up to 40,000 people per day until it ends on December 28.

The Christmas market, which will be open daily from 10am, comes as Waltham Forest gears up for a year of activities as London Borough of Culture 2019.

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An artist's impression of what the market is expected to look like

Pol Gallagher, creative director of Walthamstow Winter Wonderland, said: "We can't wait to bring a quirky, fun and entertaining festive festival back to east London.

“Waltham Forest is set to be London's first borough of culture and we can't wait to kick things off with Walthamstow Winter Wonderland.

“The team have been working tirelessly to create a unique festive experience set for all ages, from a Santa's grotto to boozy singalongs with mates.

“We'll have it all plus a few surprises up our sleeves along the way. Did we mention it's all free to enter as well?"

Younger visitors will be invited into Santa’s workshop where they can explore his toy factory and deliver their wish lists to him by hand.

Santa’s Grotto will also be available for private and corporate hire each evening, featuring a fully-licensed bar.

Popular vendors from across London will hold kiosks offering dishes from every corner of the globe including traders such as Tico's Hotdogs, Holy Cow, Carpe Diem Pizzas, The Three Little Pigs Souvlaki and The Toasty Badger.

The Umbrella bar and stage area will offer seasonal drinks and cocktails to guests as they soak up the festive atmosphere.