The popular ice rink was missing from last year's scaled back Winter Wonderland but a new attraction at the 2022 Christmas spectacular will more than make up for its absence. Skaters won't just be able to whizz around the ice - they will be able to glide ABOVE Nottingham's Old Market Square.
The festive celebration, from November 15 until December 31, will be back with a bang, bringing the Sky Skate ice path to the city for the first time. Even though Halloween and Bonfire Night have yet to happen, thoughts are already turning to Christmas as plans for this year's big event were unveiled by the Mellors Group and Nottingham City Council
Festive fun seekers will be able to skate for 400m around Slab Square, metres above the crowds exploring the 60-stall Christmas market, offering everything from hand-made gifts to delicious food and mulled wine, from local and international traders. And if they're feeling thirsty they can stop off along the way at the new Skate-Through bar.
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Edward Mellors, of the Mellors Group said: “It’s great to be bringing Winter Wonderland back to Old Market Square for Christmas. We’re truly excited that this year, alongside our already popular bars and attractions, we are introducing the Sky Skate ice path that will provide a truly unique ice-skating experience.
"After a tough couple of years for everyone, I think Nottingham needs to be both optimistic and ambitious this Christmas. It’s time to come together again, to celebrate, and to have fun.”
If heights are not your thing, don't worry, as there will be an ice rink at ground level where you will also find the not-to-be-missed Ice Bar with a temperature of minus 10 degrees. Also back for 2022 is Sur La Piste and Altitude ski chalet bars that are also the perfect cosy spot for friends and family to get together to enjoy a drink or two.
The in-house kitchen, Melt & Grill will be whipping up the perfect comfort food to enjoy while watching the live entertainment programme. The 60ft Christmas tree will be the focal point of this year’s event, with great views from the Observation Wheel that will stand in front of the Council House. Also returning are the popular toboggan ride, children's rides and Helter Skelter bar.
Those booking the Sky Skate VIP experience will be treated to a rink-side table with food and drink plus on-off access to the ice path, while Sky Skate AAA is an all-inclusive offer that adds on the Ice Bar experience and a ride on the Observation Wheel.
Alex Flint, CEO of the Nottingham Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Through our shared vision and collaboration with partners across the city, Nottingham city centre has lots to offer visitors and residents all year round, but this is especially true as we look forward to the Christmas season.
"We’re excited to see the transformation of Nottingham’s Old Market Square into Winter Wonderland again this year, and anticipate it being a significant attraction, bringing additional festive shopping and socialising opportunities to the heart of the city.
"Nottingham Business Improvement District plays a vital role in bringing trade into the city centre and our members can expect us to be working hard to bring our own Christmas campaign to the city, which will complement this centrepiece of Nottingham’s festive offer and show our collective ambition and passion for the city.”
Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Planning at Nottingham City Council, said: “We are proud to offer residents and visitors this exciting centrepiece for Christmas in Nottingham. Winter Wonderland will bring people into the city centre, not only from Nottingham but the wider region.
"I’m sure the new skating layout will be a hit with visitors. We’re pleased that by working with the Mellors Group, we are able to stage this fantastic festive attraction at no cost to local taxpayers.”
All Winter Wonderland bars and attractions will be open for walk-up customers but to avoid disappointment it’s best to book tickets and tables, especially for group and corporate bookings in advance. For further information visit nottinghamwinterwonderland.co.uk
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