If you are searching for ice skating in Harrogate this Christmas, Harrogate Ice Pavilion brings real-ice skating to Valley Gardens for the festive season.
Running from 17 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, the covered real-ice rink offers a programme of skating sessions for individuals, families, younger skaters, schools and groups, together with Relaxed (SEN) sessions, DISCO evenings and Private Hire.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, a festive get-together or simply want to get back on the ice, this guide explains what you can expect, the different sessions available and how to book.
What makes skating at Valley Gardens different?
Harrogate Ice Pavilion is a real-ice rink, rather than a synthetic skating surface, situated within Valley Gardens in the heart of Harrogate.
The rink is covered, helping to protect skating sessions from the Yorkshire winter weather while retaining the atmosphere of a seasonal outdoor attraction.
Lighting and music add to the festive experience, with different session types available throughout the programme so you can choose the skating experience that best suits you or your group.
And because the Pavilion is situated in Valley Gardens, a visit can easily form part of a wider festive day out in Harrogate.
Choose the session that suits you
One of the advantages of Harrogate Ice Pavilion is the variety of sessions available throughout the season.
Public Skating
Our regular Public Skating sessions provide the classic Harrogate Ice Pavilion experience.
Whether you’re taking your first steps onto the ice, returning to skating after a few years away or simply looking for something festive to enjoy with family and friends, Public Skating is at the heart of the programme.
Family & Toddler Sessions
Family & Toddler sessions are designed with younger skaters and their families in mind.
They’re an opportunity for families with little ones to experience real ice together and make skating part of a festive family day out in Harrogate.
Relaxed (SEN) Sessions
Our Relaxed (SEN) sessions provide an alternative for skaters who would benefit from a calmer skating environment.
Sessions operate at reduced capacity, providing more space on the ice, with calm music, mood lighting and no loud interruptions. Skate aids are available to book for those who would benefit from additional support.
Wheelchairs are also permitted onto the ice during Relaxed sessions, allowing wheelchair users to enjoy the skating experience alongside family, friends and carers. Wheelchairs are not permitted onto the ice during standard Public Skating sessions.
You can find out more in our guide to Relaxed (SEN) Ice Skating in Harrogate.
Schools & Home Education
Dedicated Schools & Home Education sessions give schools and home-educating families the opportunity to include real-ice skating in their festive activities.
Whether you’re planning an end-of-term activity, group outing or something a little different for your students, dedicated sessions are available as part of the Pavilion programme.
DISCO Evenings
For skaters looking for a livelier experience, DISCO evenings combine real-ice skating with music and lighting for a festive night on the ice.
They’re ideal for friends, groups and anyone looking to add a little more energy to their skating experience.
Private Hire
Harrogate Ice Pavilion is also available for Private Hire, offering businesses, organisations, community groups and private parties the opportunity to enjoy their own skating event.
Private Hire can provide a memorable setting for a Christmas celebration, corporate event, group gathering or special occasion.
What to wear and what to bring
You don’t need specialist clothing to enjoy recreational ice skating, but dressing appropriately will make your visit more comfortable.
- Dress in comfortable layers. Although the rink is covered, you’re still skating in a winter environment. Wear clothing that keeps you warm while allowing you to move freely.
- Wear comfortable socks. Socks should fit comfortably inside your skates without bunching.
- Gloves are strongly recommended. They’ll help keep your hands warm while you’re on and around the ice.
- Book a skate aid if required. Skate aids are available to book, subject to availability, for skaters who would benefit from additional support.
Skate hire is included with your skating ticket, so you don’t need to own a pair of skates to take part.
How long should I allow for my visit?
Allow enough time to arrive before your booked session, collect your skates and get ready before taking to the ice.
Your booking confirmation will provide the details for your skating session, so check this before travelling and arrive in good time.
Harrogate Ice Pavilion’s location within Valley Gardens also makes it easy to combine your skate with time exploring the gardens or Harrogate town centre as part of a wider festive day out.
How to book ice skating in Harrogate
All Harrogate Ice Pavilion skating sessions can be booked online.
Simply visit our booking page, choose your preferred date and session type, select your tickets and add a skate aid to your booking if required and available.
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly as some session types operate at reduced capacity.
For bookings made by 30 September 2026, we’re currently offering 20% off eligible advance bookings, giving you an opportunity to plan your Christmas skating early and save.
Ready to skate?
From family skating and first experiences on the ice to Relaxed sessions, DISCO evenings, school visits and Private Hire, Harrogate Ice Pavilion brings real-ice skating to Valley Gardens this Christmas.
Join us from 17 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 and make skating part of your festive visit to Harrogate.
Skate. Celebrate. Repeat.