Skating Rink

​Get your skates on, an outdoor skating rink will return to the promenade in November, making it the sparkling centrepiece of our 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 for both residents and visitors and includes free skate hire.

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.

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.

Prefer to watch on the side or take a break? Head to the cosy cabins next to the changing facility and warm up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate.  Afterwards, explore the rest of the Christmas By The Sea village, including simulated snowfalls, festive fairground rides, Europe's tallest aerial swing ride, and larger-than-life installations.

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

Skating in Blackpool FAQs

Christmas By The Sea is an outdoor event and will be subjected to frequent varying weather conditions. Patrons skate at their own risk and skaters under the influence of alcohol will not be permitted on the rink. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult over 16 over on the surface.

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

Yes, we provide free skate hire for both children and adults.

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 perfect size or you feel you would be best with a size smaller or larger, our team will happily switch them for you.

Can I bring my own skates?

We kindly ask that you 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. We operate the skating rink on a roll-on, roll-off basis. Simply turn up and wait to skate! 

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? We also recommend bringing gloves.

Do you allow speed skates?

No, speed skates are not permitted on the rink.

When should I arrive?

We recommend that you check the opening times and the weather before setting out for the rink. The rink will not operate in adverse weather.

Can I get food and drink at the skating rink?

Food and drink is not permitted on the rink. We do have a selection of cosy Christmas cabins near the skating rink. After your session, warm up with a spicy mulled wine or indulge in some gooey cookie dough.

What shall I do when I arrive?

Simply head to the cabin attached to the rink and our friendly team will be happy to assist you.

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.

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

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

Are there toilets at the rink?

No, there are no toilets located at the rink. The nearest public toilets are on Victoria Street and on the Lower Promenade between the Tourist Information Centre and North Pier.

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

Yes, wheelchair users are welcome to access the skating rink.-