Manchester's largest outdoor ice rink, Skate Manchester, will return to Cathedral Gardens this winter, opening on 6 November 2026 and running until 3 January 2027. Early bird tickets are now available online, and this year ticket holders can change their session date and time up to 24 hours before their visit.
Return of the City's Biggest Rink
Skate Manchester has established itself as the highest Google-rated ice rink in the UK, according to the event organisers. Following a successful 2025 season, this year's edition combines the rink's festive atmosphere with a curated programme of events, themed nights, competitions and inclusive skate sessions.
Specially tailored sessions include dedicated quiet and toddler sessions for a more relaxed skating environment, along with discounted tickets and weekly events for students and the local community. Deals and sessions are being launched for families, students, local residents, community groups and those seeking a quieter experience.
Opening Times and Ticket Prices
Skate Manchester will be open daily from 6 November to 6 December, 11am to 9pm, with doors at 10.30am and the last skating session at 8pm. From 7 December to 3 January, hours extend to 10am to 9pm, with doors at 9.30am and the last session at 8pm. Sessions last up to 45 minutes, and the rink is closed on Christmas Day.
Standard tickets include skate hire but exclude the non-refundable booking fee. Adults and teens (13+) cost £15-£21, children (12 and under) £13.75-£15.50, and family tickets £44-£59 for either one adult and three children or two adults and two children.
Special Offers and Discounts
Other deals include a parents and mini skater ticket at £15 for both on weekdays 2pm-3pm until 18 December, student nights at £10 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until 18 December, and student groups of six at £50 until 18 December. Kids skate for free on Tuesdays 4pm-6pm until 18 December when adults pay for a session.
Carer tickets are free from the Box Office, school groups cost £5 per student on weekdays until 18 December with teachers free, and community sessions cost £5 per skater on Mondays until 18 December. Local residents get 20 per cent off Mondays and Tuesdays until 18 December with code LCLOVE2026, and Blue Light workers receive 20 per cent off with valid ID. Groups of 20 or more get 15 per cent off, and groups booking nine tickets receive the 10th free. Skate aids are available to hire for £5 on a first-come, first-served basis.
