As we head into autumn, the talk of colder weather and Christmas begins. For those planning ahead for the festive season and in search of a winter escape that’s only a short train ride or drive away from Manchester, the town of Lytham is set to bring plenty of magic with the return of its ice rink and Christmas market.
Christmas in Lytham: market stalls, fairground rides and open-air ice rink
Lytham on Ice is set to take over Clifton Square from Saturday 28 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027 with the installation of an open-air ice rink in the heart of the town. Returning to the Lancashire market town for the first time in a decade, locals and visitors to Lytham will be able to enjoy a seasonal glide on the ice to truly get them in the festive spirit. Better still, ice skating sessions start from an affordable price of £7.99 plus booking fee.

The ice rink offers festive fun for all ages, surrounded by sparkling lights, rides, food stalls and the atmosphere of Christmas in Lytham. The special 60ft by 40ft Christmas attraction will be open from noon until 9pm each day, with longer opening hours at weekends.
If that wasn’t enough, yuletide merriment is also set to come to Lytham Station and Sparrow Park with a brilliant Christmas market and rides on offer throughout the five-week festival.
Lytham on Ice dates and opening times
Lytham on Ice will run from Saturday 28 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027. The ice rink will be open from 12pm – 9pm weekdays and 11am – 9pm at weekends (last skating session 8.15pm).
Find Lytham on Ice at Clifton Square, Lytham, FY8 5JP.

Ticket prices for Lytham on Ice and how to book
Adult tickets (for those aged 14 or over) start from £9.95 per 45-minute skating session plus booking fee, and tickets for children aged 13 years old and under start from £7.99 per session. Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children) start from £32 and skate hire is included in the price. You can book your tickets here.
Christmas at The Station and Sparrow Park dates and opening times
The Christmas markets and rides at The Station and Sparrow Park will also run from Saturday 28 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027. Opening hours are from 12pm – 9pm on weekdays and 11am – 9pm at weekends.
📍Lytham Station and Sparrow Park,Agnew Street, Lytham, FY8 5NJ.

How to get to Lytham from Manchester
Lytham is around an hour and 15 minute drive from Manchester, taking the M6 or M61 followed by the M55. You can also get to Lytham in around an hour and 16 minutes, by taking the train from Manchester Oxford Road and changing at Preston.