Skate Manchester

Skate Manchester in Cathedral Gardens will have you skating around its huge central Christmas tree like you’re the main character on an advent calendar. And as it’s partly covered, you can enjoy this traditional winter activity no matter what the weather – though there are refunds or re-booking if another storm hits.

There are push-along penguins to keep small children stable on their skates and marshals on the rink to make sure everyone is behaving nicely. Food and drink is available nearby. (You can get discounts at many of the restaurants in Manchester’s Corn Exchange if you take your ticket).

You can also make a day of it with 20% off at The National Football Museum or even a night of it with reduced rates at Hotel Indigo if you’re coming from out of town.

Be warned, there are no toilets at the ice rink and very little storage for bags. Best to take someone with you who doesn’t like ice skating and is happy to look after all your stuff (while capturing your best moves on camera of course).

Get your skates on – Skate Manchester is only here until New Year’s Day.