Ice skating is one of those activities that almost everyone enjoys — even if it takes a few laps of the rink and a couple of wobbles to find your feet! Whether you’re a complete beginner, a confident skater or somewhere in between, a session at an ice rink is brilliant fun and a great option whatever the weather outside.
The UK has permanent ice rinks in most major cities and towns, plus dozens of temporary outdoor rinks that appear every winter. Here’s our guide to the best permanent venues across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Always check the rink’s own website for current session times, skate hire availability and booking requirements — sessions can sell out quickly at weekends and during school holidays.
Ice Skating in England
National Ice Centre — Nottingham
One of the UK’s premier ice skating venues, the National Ice Centre in Nottingham has two Olympic-sized ice pads and hosts public skating sessions, lessons, ice hockey and major events. It’s a brilliant venue whatever your level — complete beginners are made very welcome and the public sessions are great fun. Nottingham city centre is well worth exploring while you’re there too.
Read More — National Ice Centre Nottingham
IceSheffield — Sheffield, Yorkshire
One of the largest ice skating facilities in the UK, IceSheffield has two Olympic-sized rinks and is one of Britain’s leading venues for figure skating and short track speed skating. Public sessions are available and it’s a fantastic indoor activity for families and groups visiting Sheffield or South Yorkshire.
Read More — IceSheffield
Planet Ice — Multiple Locations
Planet Ice operates ice rinks across England — a great option if you’re looking for somewhere local. With venues in Altrincham, Basingstoke, Blackburn, Bristol, Coventry, Gillingham, Gosport, Hemel Hempstead, Leeds, Milton Keynes, Peterborough, Solihull, Uttoxeter and Widnes, there’s likely one within easy reach of wherever you are. Public skating, lessons and family sessions are available at most venues.
Find Your Nearest Planet Ice
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink — London
One of London’s most beautiful and atmospheric ice rinks, set inside the stunning Victorian Alexandra Palace building with gorgeous views over the city. Public sessions, skating lessons and private hire are all available. A lovely way to spend a few hours in North London — and Alexandra Palace itself is a fascinating place to explore.
Read More — Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Lee Valley Ice Centre — East London
A modern, purpose-built ice venue in east London with two Olympic-sized rinks under one roof — making it one of the largest ice skating facilities in the south. Public skating, disco sessions, lessons, ice hockey and figure skating are all on offer. A great indoor option for visitors in the capital, particularly those staying in East London, Essex or Hertfordshire.
Read More — Lee Valley Ice CentreIce Skating in Wales
Vindico Arena — Cardiff Bay, Wales
Wales’ main ice arena, with an Olympic-sized rink in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Public skating sessions, skate hire, lessons and ice sports are all available. Cardiff Bay is a brilliant destination in itself — combine a skating session with a walk along the waterfront and dinner in one of the many restaurants nearby for a really enjoyable Cardiff day out.
Read More — Vindico Arena CardiffIce Skating in Scotland
Dundee Ice Arena — Dundee, Scotland
One of Scotland’s established ice venues, offering public skating sessions and ice sports in the heart of Dundee. A great indoor activity for visitors exploring Dundee — a city that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years and is now one of Scotland’s most interesting cultural destinations.
Read More — Dundee Ice Arena
The Time Capsule — Coatbridge, Scotland
Coatbridge’s famous leisure complex has traditionally featured both a waterpark and an ice rink. Check current availability before visiting as facilities can change — but if the ice rink is open it’s a brilliant option for families in central Scotland looking for an action-packed day out.
Read More — The Time CapsuleIce Skating in Northern Ireland
Dundonald International Ice Bowl — Belfast
Northern Ireland’s premier ice skating venue, with a full-sized ice rink offering public skating, lessons, ice hockey and family sessions. A great indoor activity for families visiting Belfast — and there’s also ten-pin bowling and other activities on site making it a brilliant all-round family day out.
Read More — Dundonald Ice BowlSeasonal Ice Rinks
Every winter, dozens of temporary outdoor ice rinks pop up in town centres, shopping centres, historic buildings and parks across the UK. They’re usually open from November through to January and make a magical addition to a winter city break. Some of the most famous seasonal rinks include the Natural History Museum in London, Hampton Court Palace, the Eden Project in Cornwall and many city centre locations across the country.
These change every year so the best way to find out what’s on near you is to search for seasonal ice rinks in your chosen destination as winter approaches.
Tips for a Great Ice Skating Session
Book in advance — public skating sessions at popular rinks sell out quickly, especially at weekends and during school holidays. Always check and book online before you travel.
Arrive early — allow time for getting skates fitted before your session starts. Skate hire queues can build up quickly at busy times.
Dress appropriately — ice rinks are cold! Wear warm clothes, and gloves are particularly useful as falls are part of learning and cold ice on bare hands isn’t pleasant.
Penguin aids for beginners — most rinks offer penguin-shaped skating aids that younger children and nervous beginners can hold onto for balance. Ask at the skate hire desk.
Don’t be put off if you’ve never skated before — everyone starts somewhere. The first ten minutes can feel wobbly but most people find their feet surprisingly quickly and end up having a brilliant time.
More indoor days out: Snow Centres • Waterparks • Tenpin Bowling • Museums & Galleries • Go Underground
Where to stay nearby: Hotels • Last Minute Breaks • UK City Breaks