Festive ice skating in Manchester, Liverpool and beyond
By Sarah Tierney and Jo Milligan
Updated 26 November 2025
Is there anything more magical than gliding across the ice under twinkling stars at Christmastime? Whether you’re pirouetting like a pro, taking the kids for a wobbly first session on the rink, or meeting up with friends for a Christmas night out, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best places for ice skating in Manchester, Liverpool and the North West.
We’ve got indoor skating, outdoor skating, and even one where you can skate for free. Here’s the options for your ice skating day out in the North West.
-
Manchester City CentreMore detailsSkate Manchester
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 This year the traditional Christmas tree in the centre has been replaced by a 15-metre wind turbine (it’s more festive than it sounds).
-
Trafford ParkMore detailsChristmas at The Trafford Centre
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.
-
AltrinchamMore detailsPlanet Ice
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).
-
Baltic TriangleMore detailsBoxpark Liverpool
Ice skating is back at Boxpark Liverpool with their Icebox rink open daily until mid-January. And from New Year’s Day until Sunday 11 January, kids can enjoy a complimentary skate with every adult booking.
-
BlackpoolMore detailsChristmas by the Sea
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.
-
LancasterMore detailsLancaster On Ice
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.
-
UllswaterMore detailsAnother Place, The Lake
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.
