Outdoor ice skating is finally coming back to York city centre for the first time since 2010. Organisers behind the brand-new THOR’S on ICE have teamed up with popular local restaurant Lucia to bring a bit of extra glamour to Museum Gardens this festive season.
Running from 13th November right through to 3rd January, the attraction features a massive 4,950 square foot ice rink tucked just behind York Art Gallery. They have put a huge clear roof over the whole thing too, so you can skate under the lights without worrying about the winter rain ruining your plans.
Lucia is taking charge of the rink-side bar alongside Veuve Clicquot, serving up everything from Champagne and mulled wine to boozy hot chocolates and seasonal cocktails. The standout drink on the menu is their Dolce Glide cocktail, which comes served over a clear ice cube with a tiny pink ice skate frozen right inside it.
They are also bringing actual snowfall to the site. Artificial snow will fall every hour, on the hour, across both the outdoor bar terrace at the rink and over at Lucia’s main restaurant terrace on Swinegate.
If you are visiting, keep an eye out for the QR codes printed on Lucia’s takeaway cups. Scanning one enters you into a giveaway for a overnight break in the city, complete with a two-night stay at The Grand Hotel, a £250 meal at Lucia, and a £150 Visit York gift card.
“Partnering with Lucia brings another brilliant York experience to THOR’S on ICE,” said Amanda Monaghan, Director at THOR’S tipi. “Their signature cocktails and festive drinks will add something really special to the rink.”
Skating slots last 45 minutes, with adult tickets starting from £12, kids from £11, and family passes from £31.50. Beside the ice, you will find street food vendors, live music, and the return of the classic THOR’S winter tipi for its fourth year running in the gardens.
You can grab tickets and check session times online now over at thorsoniceyork.co.uk.
