Outdoor ice skating
England's growing number of outdoor ice rinks are the coolest places to visit this winter. There's nothing more romantic than gliding about under the stars, surrounded by fairy lights and Christmas trees. So get your hats, gloves and scarves at the ready...
South West
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway - Bristol
From 12 November 2009
Tick your festive boxes with a huge outdoor ice rink, Santa's Castle for the kids and a traditional Christmas market.
Eden Project, Boldeva, St Austell
Opens 24 October 2009
There’s something magical about outdoor skating with the world’s largest greenhouse biomes as a backdrop, bustling about in the converted Winter Wonderland, complete with lantern processions, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and Cornish choirs.
South East
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink - Winchester27 November 2009 to 3 January 2010
This seasonal outdoor ice skating rink that will operate in the Cathedral grounds, located in the Inner Close with the Cathedral providing a stunning backdrop. There will be a café immediately behind the ice rink that will sell seasonal refreshments. A Christmas Market selling high quality goods and food will also open.
North East
Skating @ Life - NewcastleGateshead14 November 2009 - 21 February 2010
Whether you're looking to add a touch of Christmas sparkle to your office party or family outing, inject some festive fun to a skate-with-your-mates or extra special romance to your skate-with-a-date, a whirl on the rink is the perfect way to guarantee sledge loads of seasonal cheer.
Yorkshire
The Ice Factor - YorkSaturday 14th November 2009 until Sunday 3rd January 2010
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Clifford’s Tower in the centre of York, The Ice Factor is a unique Christmas attraction for young and old alike. It encompasses a picturesque rink centered round the illuminated oak tree in the Eye of York.
London
Skate at Haven Green - Ealing
Opens December 2009
Bring your family and friends and soak up the atmosphere of open air skating amongst the trees n Ealing's Haven Green.
Hyde Park Ice Rink - Hyde Park
21 November 2009 to 3 January 2010
Festive fun in the heart of London featuring London’s largest outdoor ice rink, German Christmas market, a giant observation wheel, games and rides will take place in Hyde Park this year.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink - South Kensington
5 November 2009 - 17 January 2010
A full fun family-friendly day out is ensured by a whirl around this thrilling ice rink and the jolly Christmas Fair just outside the museum.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
14 November 2009 to 21 February 2010
Located in the magnificent setting of Canada Square Park, surrounded by Canary Wharf’s world famous tower, this ice rink transforms the estate into a winter wonderland of ice skating and entertainment this winter season.
Somerset House - Strand
Open from 17 November 2009 until 24 January 2010
A romantic rink is erected in the 18th century courtyard of the Somerset House this Christmas season.
Ice at the Tower - Tower of London Museum
21st November 2009 to 10th January 2010
Her Majesty’s Fortress freezes over, as the moat of the Tower of London converts to an ice skating rink, fun for friends and families alike.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
28th November 2009 to 10th January 2010
Situated between the banks of the Thames and a backdrop of Hampton Court Palace, a day out at this ice rink can be enhanced by a joint ticket including a visit to the fascinating palace as well.
Northwest
Spinningfields Ice Rink - Spinningfields, Manchester
12 November - 3 January 2010
Enjoy the excitement of skating outdoors and as night falls, join skaters of all ages on the ice to skate under the magnificent canopy of twinkling lights. This Christmas Spinningfields hosts Manchester's ultimate winter experience.
East Midlands
Outdoor ice skating - Old Market Square, Nottingham
18 November - 10 January 2010
The National Ice Centre presents the Victoria Centre Ice Rink in the spectacular winter wonderland setting of Nottingham’s Old Market Square. Come for a festive family day out a romantic evening spin under the twinkling Christmas tree lights.
Lincoln Ice Rink - Lincoln
26 November – 3 January 2010
Get your skates on and don’t miss you chance to see ‘Lincoln on Ice’ as part of the city’s Winter Wonderland and great outdoor ice rink. Make time to fit in a session or two around a day trip out, shopping or during a visit to the Christmas Market. Tickets can be bought online.
