Get ready for a dazzling winter wonderland as Ice Cube at Christmas returns to Leeds from November 21, 2025, transforming Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street into a festive paradise! Glide on a magnificent covered ice rink, savor delectable seasonal treats at the European-inspired markets, and enjoy thrilling rides like the illuminated Big Wheel and Starflyer, alongside cozy retreats such as Thor’s Tipi and the Ski Bar for an unforgettable holiday experience.
What does Ice Cube at Christmas in Leeds offer for visitors in 2025?
Ice Cube at Christmas in Leeds features a covered ice rink in Millennium Square, festive markets with seasonal food, family-friendly rides, accessible skating sessions, and cosy retreats like Thor’s Tipi and the Ski Bar. The event runs daily from 21 November 2025, offering something for all ages.
Festive Skating Experiences for All Ages
This winter, Leeds city centre transforms into a festive wonderland as Ice Cube at Christmas returns to Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street from 21 November 2025. The centrepiece of this event is a sprawling 400 square metre covered ice rink, housed beneath a transparent marquee for a picturesque and weatherproof skating experience. Skating enthusiasts and families can glide into the holiday season with daily sessions available from midday into the evening hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the ice.
For younger visitors, the Penguin Club makes a much-anticipated return, offering children under nine an opportunity to learn to skate with the adorable support of penguin skating aids. “The club runs every weekend at 10.15am, with extra sessions during half-term to ensure even more children can join in,” the event organisers confirm. For those hoping to improve their technique, one-to-one skating lessons are scheduled each weekend, catering to both beginners and those looking to polish their skills.
Accessibility remains a priority throughout Ice Cube at Christmas. While wheelchair users and disabled visitors are welcome at all skating sessions, dedicated accessible sessions take place every Thursday at 10.15am (excluding 4 December). This ensures everyone can participate and enjoy the festive spirit. Skating tickets are competitively priced at £12.75 for adults, £11.50 for students and LEEDSCard holders, and £9.75 for children under 13, with off-peak reductions and additional discounts for Breeze Pass holders.
Christmas Markets, Flavours, and Cosy Retreats
Beyond the ice rink, guests are invited to explore a vibrant European-inspired Christmas market featuring a range of festive stalls. The market offers an array of seasonal delicacies from German bratwurst and smoked brisket (new for 2025), to Canadian-style poutine and indulgent treats like churros, homemade crumble, and warm caramelized nuts (also new for 2025). Sweet-toothed visitors can also savor toasted marshmallows while exploring the charming market atmosphere.
For those seeking a cosy retreat, the alpine-themed Ski Bar returns with its distinctive four-metre tall illuminated Ski Bear. This inviting venue provides the perfect spot to relax and enjoy festive drinks in a warm, enchanting setting. “Millennium Square, Cookridge Street and Victoria Gardens will be transformed with attractions, great food and drink, and favourites like the Ski Bar, Wheel of Light, North Pole Star Flyer and traditional carousel – offering something for everyone this holiday season,” said Roger Tuby of International Funfairs.
Additionally, Thor’s Tipi offers an atmospheric hideaway in front of Leeds Art Gallery where guests can warm up by extra log fires, sip on new holiday cocktails (including the Thor’s Baubleini), and take in evenings filled with live music and fairy lights. Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi, shares, “It’s our ninth year in Leeds at Christmas – we love being here and this year we’re going all out! We have new and exciting Christmas cocktails, extra log fires and so many fairy lights. Can’t wait to see you under the mistletoe!” For further details on event features and menus, visitors can reference Thor’s Tipi’s official site.
Thrilling Rides and Family Attractions
Ice Cube at Christmas is not just about skating and food – the event also boasts an impressive selection of rides and family attractions. The illuminated Big Wheel on Victoria Gardens, now fully wheelchair accessible, offers panoramic views of sparkling city lights. On Cookridge Street, the Golden Gallopers carousel provides a classic festive experience for all ages. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can soar high on the Starflyer in Millennium Square, which whisks riders 30 metres up into the night sky.
For younger children, a series of smaller rides and winter-themed games ensure that everyone can join in the fun, regardless of age or thrill threshold. Roger Tuby, speaking on behalf of International Funfairs, notes, “We’re excited to once again partner with Leeds City Council to bring a magical winter wonderland feel to the city.” From gentle rides to dazzling attractions, the event’s entertainment is crafted to be truly inclusive.
Alongside Ice Cube, the Leeds Christmas Market runs concurrently, taking over City Square from 21 November to 21 December 2025. Market-goers can browse local crafts, festive gifts, and a variety of traditional foods. Detailed schedules and event listings are available on the Visit Leeds website.
Booking Information and Visitor Tips
Ice Cube at Christmas runs daily with varying hours: 12pm to 9:30pm Monday to Thursday (extended to 10pm on Fridays), 11am to 10pm on Saturdays, and 11am to 7pm on Sundays, except Christmas and Boxing Day. These extended hours are designed to accommodate busy holiday schedules so everyone has an opportunity to visit.
Tickets for ice skating become available from 7 November and can be purchased online at www.icecubeleeds.co.uk. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure preferred times, although a limited number of on-the-day tickets may be available directly at the Carriageworks Theatre ticket office, overlooking the venue. Off-peak pricing is available for all ticket types Monday to Thursday from 12:15pm to 5pm, making it easier for families and groups to plan affordable outings.
Further visitor information – including skating session times, details about accessible sessions, contact points, and up-to-date event offerings – is continually posted on the official event website. Since the Ice Cube at Christmas is a much-loved staple in Leeds’ calendar, early planning is recommended to ensure a seamless and magical holiday experience. For complementary citywide celebrations, guests can also discover Christmas market stalls, Thor’s Tipi, and the host of family-friendly festive activities illuminated throughout central Leeds.
- Ice Cube at Christmas returns to Leeds from November 21, 2025, transforming Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street.
- The event features a covered ice rink, European-inspired Christmas markets with seasonal treats, and thrilling rides like the Big Wheel and Starflyer.
- Accessibility is a priority, with dedicated accessible skating sessions every Thursday and a fully wheelchair-accessible Big Wheel.
- Cozy retreats such as Thor’s Tipi and the alpine-themed Ski Bar offer festive drinks and a warm atmosphere.
- Skating tickets can be purchased online from November 7, and visitors are encouraged to book in advance.