Yahoo News Best ice rinks to visit near me in the South West this winter and Christmas
Gliding across a shimmering sheet of ice, surrounded by the crisp air and the sound of skates slicing the surface - there’s a magic to ice rinks that’s impossible to ignore.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a novice simply seeking the thrill of lacing up skates for the first time, ice rinks offer a unique blend of excitement, nostalgia and that special Christmas feeling.
It's often one of the first things families tick off during the festive season and, although our choice locally could certainly be far better, we do at least have some rinks in the South West worth a trip for - and one in Cornwall for those not wanting to go further afield.
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Eden Project, Cornwall
Cornwall's one-and-only, it's hard not to consider a visit to the Eden Project's ice rink, set amidst the famous biomes. It provides a unique skating experience complemented by holiday lights and other festive activities, not least a visit to Father Christmas.
Advanced booking is required though and it can get a little pricey when you factor in the cost to enter the attraction on top of the cost of skating. If you time it right, you can also visit during the Cornwall Christmas Fair. Locals can also get a yearly pass making it much more affordable.
When: From October 29 to February 23
Where: The Eden Project, Bodelva
Price: From £9 per child and £12 per adult for a 'general skate' on top of general admission to the Eden Project. Various packages, family deals and skate passes are available too.
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Plymouth Winter Wonderland, Devon
The centrepiece of Plymouth's festive celebrations is this ice-cold rink beneath a canopy of twinkling lights creating a magical atmosphere amidst the festive music and Christmas discos. It's part of the larger Winter Wonderland event which includes a grotto, festive food stalls, live music and more.
When: From November 15 to January 1
Where: Central Park, Plymouth
Price: A child ticket costs £11.36, plus a £1.14 booking fee. Adult tickets cost £13.18, plus a £1.32 booking fee. Family tickets for two adults and two children, or one adult and three children, cost £39.09 with a £3.91 booking fee.
Icescape Westpoint, Devon
This seasonal ice rink offers a family-friendly experience in a picturesque setting, with skating aids available for beginners. It's a great option for those in the Exeter area, or willing to travel (while not going too far if you're from Cornwall).
When: December 12 to January 5
Where: Westpoint in Exeter
Price: Tickets are from £12 for a child, £14 for adults and family tickets vary.
Icescape at the Tropicana, Weston-super-Mare
This iconic venue transforms into the largest covered winter ice rink in the UK, offering skating sessions on real ice alongside festive food, drinks, and even a Santa Skate experience for families.
When: From November 1 to January 5
Where: Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare
Price: £11.50 for children under 12 and £13.50 for adults (13+) but you'll save a little by buying tickets online ahead of time. Family tickets are around £40.
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Bath on Ice, Bath
Located in the city’s Royal Victoria Park, this popular outdoor rink combines skating with festive attractions like mini golf and mulled wine. Bath on Ice is a charming spot for an evening out during the holiday season.
When: From November 15 to January 5
Where: Royal Pavilion, Bath
Price: Adults can enter for £15 (16+) and children under 12 pay £12.50. A teenager (13-15) will pay £14.
