Festive ice skating in Manchester, Liverpool and beyond

Skate Manchester in Cathedral Gardens will have you skating around its twinkly ice rink like you’re the main character on an advent calendar. This year the traditional Christmas tree in the centre has been replaced by a 15-metre wind turbine (it’s more festive than it sounds).

Another option for ice skating in Manchester is to head to the Trafford Centre, where they have a skating rink, big wheel, and festive fun fair.

This ice skating rink is open year-round but it’s especially popular for a day out at Christmas. And if the kids are getting a little too manic on Christmas morning, you can bring them here to tire them out – it’s just £10 to skate on Christmas Day from 10am-midday (£3 for under-4s).

Ice skating is back at Boxpark Liverpool with their Icebox rink open daily until mid-January. Head inside afterwards for winter cocktails and street food from the likes of Yum Cha and Simply Salt n Pepper.

Blackpool’s free ice rink is open daily from 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026. You’ll find it just in front of the tower; it’s part of Blackpool’s Christmas by the Sea attractions.

Lancaster On Ice is the big one when it comes to seasonal skating. This award-winning venue has had glowing reviews in a number of broadsheets, and now, the icing on the Christmas cake, it has the thumbs up from Confidential Guides too.

If you’re looking for a pre-Christmas getaway, a stay at Another Place, The Lake includes use of their 200-square foot ice rink on the shores of Ullswater. You could even book yourself a winter swim session in the lake itself if you’re feeling particularly brave.