Summer might not be over but Manchester’s largest fully-covered and weatherproof outdoor ice rink already has winter on their minds. One of the city’s main attractions during the festive period, Skate Manchester is set to bring back the ice rink to the historic Cathedral Gardens this winter and booking is already open.
Located right in the heart of Manchester next to the globally renowned Christmas Markets – Skate Manchester has now established itself as the highest Google-rated ice rink in the UK.
When does Skate Manchester return?
Skate Manchester at Cathedral Gardens will run from November 6, 2026 to 3 January 3, 2027.
An ice rink for all: dedicated quiet and toddler sessions plus discounted tickets for students and locals
This year will see Skate Manchester combine the ice rink’s quintessential festive atmosphere, with a specially curated programme of events, themed nights, competitions and inclusive skate sessions. The rink is tailoring sessions to meet the needs of all visitors, including dedicated quiet and toddler sessions designed for a more relaxed skating environment, along with discounted tickets and weekly events for students and the local community.
20% off skating on Mondays and Tuesdays
Skate Manchester is also launching a range of deals and sessions designed for families, students, local residents, community groups and those looking for a quieter skating experience. Local residents can enjoy 20% off skating on Mondays and Tuesdays until December 18 using code LCLOVE2026, while children can skate for free on Tuesdays between 4pm and 6pm.
£10 student skate sessions and more discounts
Students can skate for just £10 on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, while families can enjoy dedicated Parents & Mini Skater sessions in the same period. There will also be £5 Community and school sessions, free skating for children on selected Tuesdays (4pm-6pm until December 18), accessible SEND sessions and 20% off for Blue Light workers. Group discounts will also be available for larger bookings.
Ticket prices for Skate Manchester
Adult tickets (for those aged 13 or over) start from £15 per session plus booking fee, and tickets for children aged 12 years old and under start from £13.75 per session. Family tickets (1 adult + 3 children or 2 adults + 2 children) start from £44 and skate aids will be available to hire at the rink for £5 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Super Early Bird tickets are available to purchase now online. Plus, new this year at Skate Manchester, ticket holders can now change their session date and time up to 24 hours before their visit.
Skate Manchester ice rink opening times
Skate Manchester will open to the public from Friday 6 November 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027, excluding Christmas Day (December 25, 2026). From November 6 to December 6, the rink will be open daily from 11am to 9pm, with doors opening at 10.30am and the last skating session beginning at 8pm.
From December 7 to January 3, opening hours will extend from 10am to 9pm, with doors opening at 9.30am and the last skating session beginning at 8pm.
Skating sessions last up to 45 minutes, and it is recommended that you arrive 30 to 40 minutes before your session to get ready to take to the ice.
