John Lewis wheel prepares for takeoff

The new John Lewis Wheel at bmibaby Cardiff Winter Wonderland will be ready to board on November 12, the same day bmibaby Cardiff Winter Winter Wonderland officially opens. The wheel is currently being constructed this week ready for the first flight.

The wheel celebrates the opening of the new John Lewis store in Cardiff and marks a new era for shopping in Cardiff. The Welsh branch is the biggest John Lewis opened outside of London and is the anchor of the new St David’s development.

Standing as tall as three double decker buses, the wheel boasts 24 heated, waterproof, enclosed gondolas that can accommodate up to 6 passengers on a 10 minute flight.

From the top of the wheel passengers will be able to spot the city’s best known sites, including Cardiff Castle and the Millennium Stadium.

Executive Member for Sport, Culture and Leisure, Cllr Nigel Howells, said: “The John Lewis Wheel is a great Christmas attraction and this year the wheel will be fully waterproof so can be enjoyed whatever the weather.

“The wheel offers the best seat in the house with spectacular views of bmibaby Cardiff Winter Wonderland and across the capital city.”

Liz Mihell, managing director of John Lewis Cardiff said: “We wanted to make a big impact for the people of Cardiff during our first Christmas and it seemed fitting to link up with the big Wheel and Winter Wonderland. I can’t wait to jump aboard.”

For more information on bmibaby Cardiff Winter Wonderland, including tickets news, session details and entertainment listings visit www.bmibabycardiffwinterwonderland.com