Blackpool's free ice skating is back

An outdoor skating rink will return to Blackpool promenade in November, as part of the Christmas By The Sea village.

Standing in the shadow of the iconic Blackpool Tower, the synthetic rink, spanning 20 metres in length, is free to use and includes free skate hire. The rink will be open daily (excluding Christmas Day). .

No advance booking is required, simply turn up, change to your free rental skates and take to the rink. The rink can accommodate up to 60 skaters at any one time and there is a designated changing facility, skate aids and disability aids available.

Whether you’re an avid skater practising your pirouettes or a first-timer gripping the outside rails and struggling to stay upright, the rink caters for all ages and skating levels. Slip, slide and skate across the rink with the world-famous Blackpool Tower and Illuminations as your dramatic backdrop, take in those picture-perfect moments and delight in a skating experience like no other.

Skating rink times subject to change and weather may impact openings. 

Popular Questions

When will the rink be open?

Christmas By The Sea's skating rink will be open daily, excluding Christmas Day.
Saturday & Sunday: 12pm - 8pm (last admission) 
Monday - Friday: 3pm - 8pm (last admission) 
Friday 22nd Dec: 12pm-8pm (last admission)
Daily from 26 Dec - 1 Jan: 12pm - 8pm (last admission), excluding Christmas Day.

Do you provide skate hire? If so, is it free?

Yes, skate hire for both children and adults is free. 

What skate sizes are available?

Skates range from a child size 8 to an adult size 13. To help you find the right size, let our friendly team know your shoe size and you will be given the correct sized skate for your foot. If it’s not the right size or you feel you would be best with a size smaller or larger, the team will happily switch them for you.

I’m a wheelchair user. Can I access the rink?

Yes, the skating rink is suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I bring my own skates?

Do not bring your own skates as free skate rental is included.

Can I book the day before to secure my session?

Advance bookings are not available. The skating rink is operated on a roll-on, roll-off basis. Simply turn up and wait to skate! 

When should I arrive?

Check the opening times and the weather before setting out for the rink. The rink will not operate in adverse weather.

Do you allow speed skates?

No, speed skates are not permitted on the rink.

Can I use a skate aid?

Yes, skate aids are available for beginner skaters. These are limited on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance. There are also disability skate aids available.

What should I wear to go skating?

Please remember that this skating rink is open-air. Even though there are wind shields to shelter patrons from the breezy seaside weather, we advise to wrap up warm and wear comfortable clothing suitable for cold weather at this time of year. If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, why not wear your cosiest Christmas jumper? It's also recommended to bring gloves.

Are there toilets at the rink?

No, there are no toilets located at the rink. The nearest public toilets are nearby in the Christmas By The Sea Village. Alternatively, there are toilet facilities on Victoria Street and on the Lower Promenade between the Tourist Information Centre and North Pier.

Can I get food and drink at the skating rink?

Food and drink is not permitted on the rink. 

Can I take photographs? (Selfie sticks, large cameras, tripods)

You are welcome to take photographs for personal use on a mobile device of your own group/party. However, selfie sticks, large cameras and tripods will not be allowed on the rink due to safety reasons.

Where can I leave my bags?

There is no manned cloakroom or storage facilities available at the rink. The skating area will be fenced off and staff will patrol the area during the opening hours. However, patrons are responsible for their own belongings and VisitBlackpool is not liable for any missing items.