The magical lakeside ice rink opening in the Lake District this winter
This winter an ice rink will open on the shores of Ullswater in the Lake District for the first time. Skaters will be able to glide across the ice while taking in stunning views of the lake and fells, which look especially magical when dusted with snow.
The 200-square-metre ice rink is found in the gardens of Another Place, The Lake hotel, located near the northern end of Ullswater. Both guests and visitors can use the ice rink, which will be open every day from December 1 until January 4, except Christmas Day.
It will be covered by a marquee to protect skaters from any showers, but will still allow for uninterrupted views across the surrounding landscape. The rink will host various sessions, from family-friendly options to adults-only hours to ensure everyone can get the most out of it.
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Afterwards skaters can de-boot and wander through the grounds to the Glasshouse, where they can try festive cocktails and woodfires pizzas, as well as hot chocolate, infused mulled wine and cider. When it gets particularly chilly, guests can warm up beside toasty firepits.
Adding to the festive cheer will be the hostel’s very own Christmas markets, which will open within the gardens. Over three weekends, starting from December 6, the markets will sell local produce, handmade crafts and decorations.
Another Place CCO Judi Blakeburn said: “The ice rink is a first for Another Place. To be able to skate with family and friends in the open air against the backdrop of Ullswater will be such a unique and memorable experience for our guests and visitors this winter. Combined with our 16ft Nordmann Christmas tree, lights and decorations, festive market stalls and outdoor Fellside Sauna, we’re excited to bring our elemental take on a winter festival to the lakeshore.”
Skating sessions can be booked online here and start from £10 for a child off-peak and £13 for an adult. The ice rink will be open from 10am until 8pm Friday to Sunday, from 10am to 7pm on Mondays and Thursdays, and from 12pm to 6pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Another Place is offering skate and stay packages, available on bed and breakfast and dinner inclusive. Every stay also includes full use of Swim Club, Kids’ Zone, the Outside gardens and the sheep shed (the hotel's lakeside cabin with changing facilities and warm showers).
For those who don’t want to stay, there are skate, swim and dine sessions which includes access to the Swim Club and a three-course dinner in the Rampsbeck restaurant, which starts from £75 per person. There are two skate and dine sessions, one which includes a two-course lunch or dinner in The Living Space for £45per person, and another which includes a Glasshouse pizza for £25pp.