See yourself as the next Torvill and Dean? Or maybe you’re more of a Bambi on ice? No matter your skill level, ice skating in Bristol can be a thrill all-year-round. But there’s no better time to grab your skates than during the Christmas period. Whether you want to polish up your Axel jump, or just aim to stay upright as you grip to the edge, these are the best places to ice skating in Bristol this Christmas.
1. Propyard
Winterland at Propyard is Bristol’s newest ice skating addition. A giant 300 sq m ice skating rink has transformed the former torpedo warehouse until January 6. Meaning you can practice your twizzles and spins all winter long. If you’re feeling a bit iffy about ice skating (what are you reading this for?), Winterland also has the only ice bumper cars in the city. So you can safely bump into one another without fear of falling over. Elsewhere at Winterland, you can pet a real life (animatronic) polar bear, buy seasonal craft activities and sustainably-grown Christmas trees, as well as warm up pizza from Pizzarova. Prices for the ice rink range from £8 to £12.50 a session.
39-46 Feeder Rd, Bristol BS2 0SE
2. Planet Ice
Planet Ice near Cribbs Causeway opened last year, and has filled a massive hole in Bristol’s ice skating facilities since the closure of the Bristol Ice Rink in 2012. The 45,000sq ft rink provides international standard skating facilities that can accommodate any ice activities, such as ice skating or ice hockey. A range of sessions is available, including two two hour standard sessions, while Friday nights see the disco lights come out. It’s even going to be open on Christmas Day for all those desperate for a post-lunch skate! Tickets range from £3 for under fours to £14 for an adult, with family packages available.
Merlin Road, Patchway, Bristol BS10 7SR
3. Winter Wonderland with Paddington
The nation’s favourite bear will also be at Cribbs Causeway this Christmas. And he’s bringing Winter Wonderland to the shopping centre with him. Not only will you be able to meet Paddington himself, but Santa and all his elves too. At the heart of Winter Wonderland, however, you’ll find an ice skating rink – surrounded by snow-capped Christmas trees. Until January 2, head on over for 30 minutes sessions. Ticket prices range from £10.50 to £12.50, and include skate hire with skating aids also available.
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5DG
4. Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park
Ice skating at Avon Valley returns this Christmas from November 26 to January 1, offering 500 square meters of real ice suitable for Bambi-like beginners and seasoned skaters alike. A glittering, atmospheric backdrop adds some real Christmas magic, with special lighting effects turning on as you spin into the night. When you’re not skating, follow Avon Valley’s Christmas lights trail around the park and lake, or head to the bar and enjoy festive treats. Tickets for a 45-minute session range from £6.50 to £12.50, with four-person family ice skating tickets available for £46.
Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1TP