From Christmas shopping to cosy eateries, www.skates.co.uk tells you everything you need to know about where to skate and what to do nearby.
The Ice Factor - York Designer Outlet, York
- Location: York Designer Outlet, York
- Opening Times: November 18 - January 2, 10 AM - 8 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £13, Children £10
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 120,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: The outlet has an extensive range of brand-name shops with discounts, making it a perfect stop for holiday shopping. Take a short drive into York to visit the St Nicholas Fair for more seasonal shopping and indulge in festive treats from the food stalls.
Castle Howard Skating - North Yorkshire
- Location: Castle Howard Estate, North Yorkshire
- Opening Times: November 25 - January 7, 11 AM - 7 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £12, Children £8
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 85,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Castle Howard hosts “Christmas at Castle Howard,” a magical experience featuring lavish decorations, live carol singing, and a Christmas gift shop within the estate. Nearby, you can explore the Howardian Hills for scenic views and festive shopping in the quaint village of Malton.
Cathedral Gardens Ice Rink - Manchester
- Location: Cathedral Gardens, Manchester
- Opening Times: November 3 - January 6, 10 AM - 8 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £11, Children £8.50
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 100,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets span multiple locations, with Cathedral Gardens at the heart of it. You’ll find holiday gifts, mulled wine, and festive foods across the various market areas. Enjoy a meal in the Northern Quarter, where independent eateries like Evelyn’s or The Whiskey Jar offer a cosy winter atmosphere.
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink - Winchester
- Location: Winchester Cathedral, Winchester
- Opening Times: November 17 - January 2, 10 AM - 9 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £11.50, Children £6.50
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 90,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Set around the cathedral, the Winchester Christmas Market offers a range of handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and food stalls. Before or after skating, take a stroll through the market, or warm up with a meal at the cosy Chesil Rectory, just a short walk away.
Winter Wonderland - Cardiff
- Location: Cardiff City Hall Lawns, Cardiff
- Opening Times: November 15 - January 7, 10 AM - 10 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £12, Children £10
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 300,000+
Other Things to Do Nearby: After skating, head to the Cardiff Christmas Market nearby in St John Street for a variety of festive stalls selling artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and hot drinks. You’ll also find plenty of shopping options at the St David’s Shopping Centre, perfect for finding last-minute gifts or holiday decor.
Centenary Square Ice Rink - Birmingham
- Location: Centenary Square, Birmingham
- Opening Times: November 3 - January 7, 10 AM - 10 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £11, Children £9
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 250,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Just steps from the rink, you’ll find Birmingham’s renowned Frankfurt Christmas Market with German-style food stalls, mulled wine, and handmade ornaments. Take a break at one of the city’s cosy pubs like The Pint Shop or enjoy a meal at the nearby Grand Central food court, which offers a wide range of cuisine options.
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink - Brighton
- Location: Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton
- Opening Times: November 3 - January 14, 10 AM - 10 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £15, Children £10
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 200,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Visit Brighton’s Christmas Market at Jubilee Square, where you’ll find a selection of unique gifts, holiday foods, and festive lights. For a meal, North Laine is packed with trendy cafes and independent shops, while The Lanes are perfect for picking up locally crafted gifts and seasonal decor.
Princes Street Gardens Ice Rink - Edinburgh
- Location: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
- Opening Times: November 18 - January 3, 11 AM - 9 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £13, Children £8
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 180,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Edinburgh’s Christmas Market on George Street is just a few minutes from the rink, featuring Scottish and international crafts, holiday treats, and mulled drinks. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea at The Balmoral or explore the shops along Princes Street for holiday gifts and souvenirs.
Old Market Square Ice Rink - Nottingham
- Location: Old Market Square, Nottingham
- Opening Times: November 11 - January 8, 11 AM - 9 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £12, Children £9
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 150,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland surrounds the rink with a festive market, including an ice bar, gourmet food stalls, and holiday gift shops. For additional shopping, head to the intu Victoria Centre nearby, or relax with a meal at one of the cosy cafes in Nottingham’s Hockley neighbourhood.
Bath on Ice - Bath
- Location: Royal Victoria Park, Bath
- Opening Times: November 17 - January 3, 10 AM - 9 PM
- Ticket Prices: Adults £12.50, Children £10
- Estimated Annual Visitors: 130,000
Other Things to Do Nearby: Bath’s Christmas Market near Bath Abbey offers over 170 stalls with handcrafted gifts, local art, and festive foods. Visit the city’s independent shops for unique holiday gifts or enjoy a classic British afternoon tea at The Pump Room.
Tips for Enjoying Ice Skating at Pop-Up Ice Rinks
Book in Advance: Tickets for these popular ice rinks sell quickly, so it’s best to book online to secure your slot.
Dress Warmly: Many of these outdoor rinks can be chilly, so layer up and bring gloves to stay comfortable.
Plan a Full Day Out: These ice rinks are near bustling holiday markets, festive cafes, and seasonal events, so plan to spend some extra time exploring nearby attractions.
Each of these pop-up ice rinks offers a unique winter experience and festive atmosphere. Whether you’re gliding along in a city square or skating at a historic estate, these rinks make for memorable holiday outings for families, friends, and couples alike.