Christmas ice skating has become one of the UK’s most cherished festive traditions. As the weather cools and the lights switch on, temporary rinks appear in historic squares, royal parks, city centres and country estates. Whether you’re planning a date-night glide, a family festive day out, or a winter escape with friends, the UK’s seasonal pop-up rinks offer a magical way to celebrate the holidays.
From the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink in York to Edinburgh’s country-park WinterFest experience, each rink brings its own atmosphere—alpine bars, glowing Christmas trees, themed DJ nights, kids’ skate aids, and fun-filled sessions. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top Christmas ice skating pop-ups in the UK for the 2025 festive season, with full details including location, price, opening hours and official websites, followed by a clean overview table.
2025 Christmas Ice Skating Pop-Ups
1. Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland – York
Location: York Designer Outlet, St Nicholas Ave, York YO19 4TA
Price: Approximately £15.95 adults / £14.95 concessions / £13.95 children (varies by session).
Opening: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026.
Hours: Weekdays from 11:00; weekends from approx. 09:15 (peak dates may vary).
Website: https://www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com
This is the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink with a 30ft Christmas tree at its centre. Expect a vintage alpine terrace café, funfair rides and a fully decorated festive setting—perfect for families staying in or visiting York.
2. Ice Skate Birmingham – Centenary Square
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Location: Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2ND
Price: Adults approx £9.50–£14; juniors £8.50–£12; family tickets available.
Opening: 1 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Hours: Typically 11:00–22:00 daily.
Website: https://www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk
This covered rink offers weather-proof skating right in the heart of Birmingham. Pair your visit with the city’s famous Frankfurt Christmas Market or enjoy the on-site Big Wheel and festive refreshments.
3. Bath on Ice – Royal Victoria Park
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Location: Royal Victoria Park, Bath BA1 2NQ
Price: Adults ~£15.50, Children ~£13.00, Special toddler-time tickets from £23 (1 adult + 1 child).
Opening: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Hours: Sessions run daily; hours vary by date.
Website: https://bathonice.co.uk
This picturesque real-ice rink sits in one of Bath’s most-loved parks. Enjoy the Christmas Tree Maze, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf and alpine-themed refreshments. Ideal for combining with Bath’s famous Christmas Market.
4. SKATE Cambridge – Parker’s Piece
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Location: Parker’s Piece, Cambridge CB1 1NA
Price: Adults ~£15, concessions ~£14, children ~£12.50
Opening: 13 November 2025 – 31 December 2025
Hours: Mon–Thu 11:00–22:00; Fri/Sat 10:00–23:00; Sun 10:00–22:00
Website: https://www.christmasincambridge.co.uk/ice-skating
Featuring Cambridge’s largest outdoor rink, this festive pop-up offers skate aids for children, an alpine lodge, and easy access to the city’s historic centre.
5. WinterFest Skating Rink – Dalkeith Country Park (Scotland)
Location: Dalkeith Country Park, Via King's Gate, Dalkeith EH22 1ST
Price: Adults £12; students £11; children £10 (reduced rates 2–4 January).
Opening: 28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Hours: Vary by date; weekends typically 10:00–19:00 with themed evening sessions.
Website: https://www.dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk/event/winterfest-skating-rink
This eco-friendly “Glice” rink is set within one of Scotland’s most picturesque country parks. Expect DJ nights, “Skate & Shake” sessions and a cosy winter village atmosphere.
UK Christmas Ice Rinks Opening Dates 2025
| Venue | Opening Dates / Hours |
|---|---|
| Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland | 14 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026; daily sessions from morning |
| Ice Skate Birmingham | 1 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026; approx 11:00–22:00 |
| Bath on Ice | 14 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026; hours vary |
| SKATE Cambridge | 13 Nov – 31 Dec 2025; 10:00–23:00 depending on day |
| WinterFest Dalkeith | 28 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026; variable opening times |
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a festive escape, a family treat or a winter date night, the UK’s 2025 ice-skating pop-ups offer an exciting mix of magical settings and well-run seasonal activities. To pair your trip with stylish rental homes in some of the UK’s best-connected locations, explore Essential Living’s available apartments here:
https://www.essentialliving.co.uk/search/
And for home inspiration, furniture ideas and accessories during the festive season, visit HomeQuarters:
https://homequarters.co.uk
If you’d like this blog expanded to include London-only pop-ups, regional maps, or Instagram embed codes for each rink, just let me know.
UK Seasonal Ice-skating FAQ's
When do Christmas ice rinks usually open in the UK?
Most open from early to mid-November and run until early January, with extended sessions on weekends.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes—most rinks use timed sessions that sell out at peak times.
Are the rinks suitable for children and beginners?
Absolutely. Many venues provide skate aids and family-friendly sessions.
Are any rinks indoors or covered?
Yes—Ice Skate Birmingham is covered, making it a reliable option during rainy winter days.
What should I wear to an outdoor rink?
Warm layers, gloves and thicker socks. Outdoor rinks can be very cold, especially in the evenings.
