Not every family wants a packed rink, loud music and a busy skating environment. Some skaters benefit from more space, a calmer atmosphere and a session that allows them to enjoy the ice at their own pace. That is exactly what the Relaxed (SEN) sessions at Harrogate Ice Pavilion are designed to provide.
Held on real ice under cover in Valley Gardens, our Relaxed sessions offer a reduced-capacity skating experience with calm music, no loud interruptions and mood lighting.
The sessions are open to children and adults and may particularly suit autistic skaters, people with sensory processing differences, learning disabilities or additional needs, as well as anyone who simply prefers a quieter, less crowded skating environment.
Families, carers and support workers are welcome too. Here is what to expect and how to book.
What makes a Relaxed (SEN) session different?
The ice is the same real ice used throughout the Harrogate Ice Pavilion programme. What changes is the atmosphere and the number of people sharing the rink.
- Reduced capacity. Fewer skaters are admitted than during our standard Public Sessions, providing more space on the ice and a less crowded environment.
- Calmer sound. Music is kept calm and there are no loud noises or unnecessary interruptions during the session.
- Mood lighting. Rather than changing or high-energy lighting effects, Relaxed sessions use mood lighting to help create a calmer skating environment.
- Skate aids available to book. Skate aids can be booked for skaters who would benefit from additional support and confidence on the ice.
- Wheelchairs are welcome on the ice. Wheelchairs are permitted onto the ice during Relaxed sessions. This provision is specific to our Relaxed sessions and is not available during standard Public Sessions.
The reduced capacity means skaters have more room to enjoy the ice at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
Who are the Relaxed sessions for?
Our Relaxed sessions are open to all ages and abilities. They may be particularly suitable for:
- Autistic children, teenagers and adults, and people with sensory sensitivities
- Children and adults with learning disabilities or additional needs
- Wheelchair users who would like to experience the ice
- Families with different ages and abilities who would like to enjoy the experience together
- Carers, support workers and groups supporting disabled skaters
- Anyone who would simply prefer a calmer, reduced-capacity skating session
You do not need a diagnosis to book a Relaxed session. If the calmer environment sounds more suitable for you or somebody in your group, you are welcome to book.
What to expect on the day
Arrive a little before your booked session so you have time to collect your skates and get ready without feeling rushed. Skate hire is included, and our team will help you with skate sizing and fitting.
Our Ice Marshals are present throughout the skating session to oversee the ice and help create a safe and welcoming environment.
A few practical things are worth knowing:
- Dress warmly, but comfortably. Wear clothing that allows you to move freely on the ice. Gloves are strongly recommended.
- Helmets are welcome. Children and adults may wear a helmet if they wish.
- Book a skate aid in advance if required. Skate aids are available to book and are subject to availability.
- Wheelchair users can access the ice during Relaxed sessions. Please speak with our team when you arrive so we can assist with access onto the rink.
How to book a Relaxed (SEN) session
Relaxed sessions form part of the Harrogate Ice Pavilion festive programme alongside Public Skating, Family & Toddler, Schools & Home Education sessions, DISCO evenings and Private Hire.
To book:
- Visit the Harrogate Ice Pavilion booking page and view the available dates and times.
- Select a Relaxed (SEN) session that suits you or your group.
- Add the required number of skating tickets.
- If you require a skate aid, add one to your booking where available.
- Complete your booking online and keep your confirmation ready for your visit.
Because Relaxed sessions operate at a reduced capacity, there are fewer places available than on a standard Public Session. Booking in advance is therefore recommended.
Why book a Relaxed skate this Christmas?
A festive skating experience doesn’t have to mean a crowded rink and a noisy environment.
Harrogate Ice Pavilion’s Relaxed sessions provide an alternative: real ice, reduced capacity, calm music, mood lighting and more room to enjoy skating at your own pace.
Whether you’re skating yourself, accompanying a family member, supporting somebody on the ice or bringing a wheelchair user to experience real ice, the aim is simple: to make festive skating accessible to more people.
Book your Relaxed (SEN) session at Harrogate Ice Pavilion and enjoy Christmas skating at your own pace.