SKATE Bournemouth Outdoor Ice Rink
Glide across a spacious real ice rink set beneath the canopies of Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, surrounded by twinkling lights and music. Measuring 70 metres long, the outdoor rink features a separate skate-hire marquee to streamline getting onto the ice. Spectators and skaters can watch the action from an expansive viewing platform, relax on the outdoor terrace, or enjoy warm drinks at the rink-edge alpine bar.
What to Expect
The longest ice rink in the UK at 70 metres.
Event Details
Ages
All ages (double-bladed skates available for toddlers as young as size 7)
Neighborhood
Lower Gardens
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
SKATE Bournemouth
Food & Drink
Moguls Alpine Bar serves mulled drinks, hot chocolates and other festive drinks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, young children and casual skaters
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: A £2 booking fee per transaction is added when purchasing via the booking system. – Get tickets
- Accessibility: The rink is wheelchair accessible and wheelchair users are welcome to book any skate session, though electric wheelchair wheels may not function properly in the rain.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on a lead, but not on site after 18:00 on Friday and Saturday nights.
Tips & Advice
- Book online ahead of time because weekend sessions always sell out, and you can change your booking up to 24 hours before but can't get a refund.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your session starts so you have time to collect your hire skates before the crowds wanting to get skates on and off.
- Dress for the weather, because this outdoor rink runs in the rain and there are no refunds for bad weather.
- Groups of more than 10 people get 10% off, and party packages with skate-and-drink deals can be arranged by email.
- If you want a sled skate aid for a child, reserve it early, since there are only a few and they come only with a child or family ticket.
Special Events & Promotions
- Toddler Time on weekday mornings until 11 December: a discounted bundle for 1 adult, 1 child and 1 skate aid in the two morning sessions.
- Experienced Skate Sessions on 19 November, 26 November and 3 December are for skaters with their own skates, and you don't need to book.
- Themed skate nights: ABBA on 18 November, musicals (Hamilton, Waitress, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked) on 25 November, and Motown/80s on 2 December.
- Student Nights are back, with buy-one-get-one-free skating tickets on set nights for students with a valid student ID.
- Weekend DJ skates on Friday and Saturday evenings, when the bar area is over-18s only.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can skate, and how young can kids start?
All levels are welcome. Age 2 is the suggested starting age, since little ones need to be steady on their feet and fit into skates. Adjustable double-bladed bob-skates fit over shoes from a child's size 7.
Do I need my own skates?
No. Hire skates go up to an adult size 15. You can bring your own, but the ticket costs the same either way.
What happens if it rains?
The rink runs in nearly all weather except a blizzard, and rain actually makes the ice smoother. There are no refunds for bad weather. If skating isn't suitable, you'll be offered another session.
Is there anything to do if I don't want to skate?
Yes. Moguls Alpine Bar serves mulled drinks and hot chocolates, and you can cheer on skaters from the viewing platform or the outdoor terrace. The spectator area and bar are free for everyone.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, as long as your dog stays on a lead. Dogs aren't allowed on site on Friday and Saturday nights.
More Christmas Events Near Bournemouth
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.