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Ice Skating First Steps

Children's activities

What is it?

Glide into the exciting world of ice skating where children under the age of five skates for free. Skating enables pre-schoolers to develop self-confidence and improve their balance and coordination skills. It’s also a great way for children to stay active and healthy. On Saturday mornings (10.30 am - 12.30 pm) and on all our Sunday sessions (10.30 am - 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm - 4.30 pm) we open our tot's zone, an area in the centre of the ice dedicated to under-5s and their parents.

What do I need?

Dress your child in layers of warm clothes, long socks, a hat, and gloves so they don’t get cold. Gloves and hats can be purchased at skate hire. There are hundreds of different skates in all sizes and styles, our smallest skate size is a child’s 5.

Is it for me?

There are lots of different items of ice equipment that can help young ones with skating – snowmen, penguins, seals, etc. On Saturday mornings (10.30 am - 12.30 pm) and on all our Sunday sessions (10.30 am - 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm - 4.30 pm) we open our tot's zone, an area in the centre of the ice dedicated to under-5s and their parents. On-ice equipment is free to use in the Tots Zone or can be hired for £4.00 for the whole rink. Baby changing and feeding facilities to warm up bottles are available and we can store your pushchair too. There’s a great selection of food and drink in our Sub Zero café located alongside the ice rink where there are highchairs.

Find and book this class

For more information or to pre-book your skating session online, please visit the National Ice Centre’s website. Don’t forget, under 5s skate for free and there are six-week skating lessons and intensive skating lessons available throughout the year if you want to be taught by the pros!

Want to bring your friends? The National Ice Centre also hosts birthday parties and parents can skate for free with their child. The parties include a one-hour skating session, a dedicated party menu, and ice equipment!

How much is it?

Skating is free for children aged 5 and under, but if adults want to join in, you can get a discounted rate with your Active Nottingham card. Active Nottingham members can skate for just £6 (RRP adult skate £11). Simply create an account on the National Ice Centre’s booking system and present your Active Nottingham membership card, fob, or wristband at the National Ice Centre reception and they’ll do the rest!

For more information on pricing and discounts for students, seniors, and more, click here.

Full Price Active Nottingham Member Concession
£11.00 £6.00 £6.00