Best Places for Ice Skating in Manchester
Get your skates on! Whether you're a pro practicing your pirouettes or requiring the assistance of the barriers to stay off the floor, there's an ice rink in Manchester for everyone.
SKATE Manchester
25th October - 4th January | Cathedral Gardens, Manchester City Centre | Book Now
Back for another year, Skate Manchester is a magical winter pop-up that transforms Cathedral Gardens and this year Skate Manchester is teaming up with Octopus Energy to bring an incredible new twist to the city’s winter celebrations. Standing tall in Cathedral Gardens, the 15-metre Fatboy Spin wind turbine will partially power the rink and replace the traditional Christmas tree as this year’s dazzling festive centrepiece.
Set in a beautiful covered and weatherproof location, this premier ice rink guarantees a magical skating experience whatever the weather. Step into the magic of the season with themed nights, contests, and live programming, or explore the enchanting Snow Globe, featuring a charming, animated winter village.
With discounted student nights, quiet skates, £5 community sessions, and special offers for Blue Light workers and parents & toddlers, Skate Manchester is the perfect festive outing for everyone.
Planet Ice Altrincham
All year-round | Planet Ice Altricham | Oakfield Road, Altrincham WA15 8EW | More Information
What’s great about Planet Ice is that it is open 365 days a year, offering indoor ice skating in Manchester and all at a reasonable price. Home to the Manchester Storm Ice Hockey team, the Altrincham Ice Dome is a fantastic state-of-the-art facility and is bookable for public ice skating every day, with other sessions and classes available to suit everyone’s needs. Think after-school skates for kids and teens, a Penguin Club that teaches under-fives and inclusive ice skating for disabled people and their carers. That's not all though, as you can even try out ice hockey on their rink - or experience the thrill of a match during one of the exciting events.
This Christmas there’s even more fun to be had as Planet Ice presents a spectacular rendition of Dick Whittington on 9 December, brought to life by the Show & Skate class of amateur skaters and supported by their Professional on Tour cast. A must-see event that captures the spirit of adventure and holiday cheer, perfect for the festive season.
Trafford Centre Tinseltown
21st November - 4th January | The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford | BOOK NOW
Each year, Manchester's Trafford Centre is transformed into a Christmas paradise: Tinsel Town. This pop-up comes with its very own covered ice rink, that is perfect for getting in the festive spirit. where you can skate around while surrounded by twinkling lights and a warm, festive atmosphere. Non-skaters will be able to enjoy a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine from the centre’s festive bar.
Ice Rink Opening Times
- Monday to Friday – 4.00 pm to 8.00 pm | Weekends 12.00 pm to 8.00 pm
- Christmas Eve 12.00 to 7.00 pm, Boxing Day 1.00 pm to 7.00 pm
Prices start from £15 for adults off-peak, £12.00 for under 13’s & £12.50 each when booked as a family.
But that's not all that's on offer here, as you'll also find a fairground full of fun rides, as well as seasonal market stalls. Enjoy fantastic rides for the whole family. Adrenaline seekers can get their hearts pumping with the Void to the thrilling Rock Rage, and the Don Sapo Jumping Frogs ride. There will also be lots of options for families and little riders and side shows, including ‘Hook a Duck’.