Make staying active during the winter period easy with these ice skating experiences across the North. From Manchester to Newcastle to Yorkshire, there are plenty of places for you to glide (or slip) with your friends and family. So, wrap up warm, grab an easy train with Northern and enjoy one of the festive period's best events.
1. Skate Manchester
Nearest station: Manchester Victoria
Teaming up with Octopus Energy this year, Skate Manchester will be in the Cathedral Gardens right next to the Manchester Victoria station, with a 15-metre Fatboy Spin wind turbine partially powering the rink. This turbine will be replacing the traditional Christmas tree, offering a just as dazzling centrepiece. Grab a ticket to Skate Manchester to enjoy the spectacle along with the community awareness that the rink is pioneering. Head along with Northern and book your ticket in advance for up to 60% off.
2. Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland
Nearest station: York
Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland is back again, and this is the perfect place for ice skating in York this winter. This year, the ice rink has a landscaped woodland scene, perfect for skating under winter skies. There is also an après-skate Chalet café and terrace for those spectating, or for a delicious warm drink after your skating session.
This ice skating rink in York is perfect for the whole family, and a must-visit if you're in York this festive season.
3. Centre for Life
Nearest station: Newcastle
The Centre for Life is back with its open-air ice skating rink for another year. An established part of Newcastle's festive calendar, the rink will be open from November 7th through to January 3rd, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy this Newcastle tradition. Situated in Times Square, just outside the Life Science Centre, the rink is made with real ice.
Enjoy cheaper journeys with Northern’s Duo tickets, perfect for you and one other person to travel where and when you like on the Northern network.
4. Nottingham Ice Rink & Sky Skate
Nearest station: Nottingham
Soar into the sky with the unique Sky Skate path at the Nottingham Winter Wonderland. You'll be able to glide several metres above the Christmas market stalls, gaining a whole new perspective on the festivities below.
If heights aren't your thing, you can still enjoy the magical rink on the ground, making it perfect for both daredevils and chilled skaters. Grab an anytime ticket with Northern and enjoy a full day of festive fun.
5. Ice Cube at Christmas 
Nearest station: Leeds
The Ice Cube at Christmas is back in Millennium Square, so why not go and test your ice skating skills and enjoy a bit of Christmas market shopping afterwards.
Right in the centre of Leeds, the Ice Cube is easily accessible and suitable for all ages and skill levels. Its city centre location, alongside Leeds ' Christmas markets, makes it the perfect ice rink in Leeds for a festive day out with the family.
Visit some of the North's best ice rinks this festive season
Make the most of this festive season with Northern and enjoy easy travel to all your favourite destinations. Whether you want to glide around the rinks with glee or wander through the markets to find the perfect gift, Northern is here to make your travel easy and smooth. During the winter period, make sure to check before you travel to avoid any disruptions on your journey.
More festive days out
Christmas shopping guides
Christmas days out by train
Pantomimes in the North
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Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.