SKATE Bournemouth returns to the Lower Gardens from 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, bringing festive ice skating to the heart of Bournemouth town centre. A popular Christmas attraction for families, friends and couples, the open-air ice rink offers a seasonal experience surrounded by sparkling lights. With bookings now open, discover the dates, what to expect and how to plan your visit to Bournemouth's Christmas ice rink this winter.
21st September 2026
It might only be September, but one of Bournemouth’s best-loved festive attractions has already announced its return – and bookings are now open.
SKATE Bournemouth will transform the Lower Gardens into a sparkling winter destination once again, welcoming skaters from Thursday 12 November 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027.
The open-air rink has become a firm favourite in Bournemouth’s Christmas calendar, offering the chance to skate beneath the lights in the heart of the town centre. Whether you’re confident on the ice or holding tightly to the side, sessions are designed for different ages and abilities, making it an easy festive outing for families, friends and couples.
Last year’s impressive 70-metre rink was described as the longest real ice rink in the UK, giving visitors even more space to glide through the Lower Gardens. Full details of this year’s rink, themed sessions and seasonal extras are still to be revealed.
Skating is only part of the experience. Moguls Alpine Bar traditionally provides a cosy spot beside the rink for warming drinks and festive food, while Bournemouth’s wider Christmas celebrations make it easy to turn a skating session into a full day or evening in town.
Popular weekend and school-holiday sessions can fill quickly, so anyone already planning their Christmas days out may want to book ahead.
SKATE Bournemouth runs from 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 at Bournemouth Lower Gardens, BH2 5AU.
Bookings and further information are available through the official SKATE Bournemouth website.
1. Bournemouth Christmas Market 2026
Spanish
Chinese (simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Norwegian
Polish
Romanian
Russian
