It doesn't matter if you're more like Bambi than Torvill and Dean; ice-skating is a great way to keep fit while enjoying yourself, whatever your ability. Check out these fabulous places to skate, for all ages and abilities.
Ice rinks to enjoy all year round
Vindico Arena, Cardiff Bay, South Wales
Whether you have never skated before or you're planning on competing in the next Winter Olympic Games, Vindico Arena offer courses to cater for all ages and levels. Alternatively, simply book onto a public skating session, hire some skates and free-style your way around the ice.
Located in the heart of Cardiff Bay it is a unique multipurpose venue with two ice rinks and seating for over 3,000 spectators. It is also home to the Cardiff Devils ice hockey team, who play in the British Elite Ice Hockey League, which is the top tier of ice hockey in the UK.
Deeside Ice Arena, Flintshire, North Wales
Aura’s Olympic-sized Ice Pad re-opened following refurbishment in December 2022 much to the delight of loyal skating community. The Ice Arena is part of Deeside Leisure Centre and offers multiple sessions for all age groups including public skating, patch ice, ice skating lessons and discos on ice. Skate hire and skating aids are available, together with a rink-side snack bar, making it a day out that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
If ice hockey is your sport you can watch a game and cheer on the home team, the Deeside Dragons, who compete in the National Ice Hockey League (Division 1 North.
Book the ice activities via the dedicated online platform on the Aura Wales website.
Seasonal outdoor ice rinks
During the winter months there are a number of seasonal skating rinks that pop up in various locations as part of the winter wonderlands.
Winter Wonderland Ice Skating, Barry Island, Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales
From October - January. Set within the pleasure park, Winter Wonderland Ice Skating comes to Barry Island. Get your skates on for a festive swish around the ice and follow it up with a go on the rides.
Swansea Waterfront Winterland, West Wales
From early November - early January. Waterfront Winterland brings festive frolics to Swansea city centre. The alpine cabins and funfair attractions move in to Museum Park by the National Waterfront Museum, with a big all-ages ice rink and a smaller children-only ice rink. Partner your visit to the site with some Christmas shopping in The Quadrant shopping centre or on Oxford Street.
Ice Rink and Walk, Cardiff Castle, South Wales
Mid November - early January. Cardiff's Winter Wonderland returns to the heart of the capital city each year. Cardiff Castle is home to this hugely popular winter attraction, with it's covered ice rink and a magical 150m open-air ice walk, for plenty of ice-skating fun.
Skating at ICC Wales, Newport, South Wales
15 Dec 2023- 04 Jan 2024. Enjoy skating at ICC Wales in Newport, with smooth synthetic ice. As well as the eco-friendly Glice rink, there are festive food and drink and Christmas gift stalls.
The Meadows Farm Village, Cardiff, South Wales
The Meadows Farm Village have skating as an optional part of entry to the farm/zoo. During the winter this synthetic ice rink is part of the experience that includes seeing the animals, a Santa experience and light trail. During the summer the rink is used for roller skating.
