The Mellors Group and Nottingham City Council have released details today ahead of the return of Winter Wonderland to Old Market Square.

Nottingham’s premier Christmas entertainment attraction will once again include the Ice Rink and Sky Skate ice path, plus the popular Ice Bar, Sur La Piste and Altitude ski bars.

Open for an extra week this year, Winter Wonderland runs from Tuesday 7 November until New Year’s Eve. Festive fun seekers can choose to skate around Old Market Square, metres above the crowd, quench their thirst with a festive drink at one of two skate-up bars, or for those not so keen on heights, enjoy the ground-level ice rink.

For anyone who doesn’t feel like putting their skates on, there is a themed Ice Bar, kept at a chilling -10 degrees. Keep warm with the gloves and coats provided and enjoy a drink from an ice glass. This experience is not to be missed, so book early to avoid disappointment.

For younger visitors the much-loved toboggan ride and Frozen Swing will be back, and what would Winter Wonderland be without the Helter Skelter bar and slide?

The Christmas market stalls have something for everyone, with local and international traders supplying everything from hand-made gifts and delicious food to mulled wine or a classic hot toddy.

The Sur La Piste and Altitude ski chalet bars are the perfect place to have some festive fun. Ideal for friends, family, date night or a Christmas work event, there’s nowhere better to celebrate with a drink or two. Tasty food options will be on offer at Melt & Grill, the in-house kitchen, for visitors to enjoy whilst taking in the live entertainment programme. To be sure of a seat it is recommended to book tables in advance online.

Nottingham’s main Christmas tree will again be the focal point of this year’s event, which looks even more magical from the top of the observation wheel that will stand in front of the Council House, offering views across the twinkling lights of the city. Book in advance for fast-track priority access.

For the ultimate indulgence, visitors can choose the Sky Skate VIP experience. This exclusive package includes a rink-side table with food and beverages, along with convenient on-and-off access to the ice path. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a truly memorable experience.

Winter Wonderland will be open from Tuesday 7 November to Sunday 31 December. Family tickets, super off-peak and off-peak reduced price skating tickets are available on Mondays to Thursdays outside of the school holidays, and a special all-attractions family ticket will be available from Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve. Nottingham city residents can also receive a 10% discount on super off-peak and off-peak skating bookings – see the Nottingham Winter Wonderland website for more detail.

Edward Mellors of The Mellors Group said: “We’re proud and excited to be back in Old Market Square this Christmas with Winter Wonderland and the Sky Skate ice path. It proved hugely popular last year with Nottingham residents and visitors alike, so we’re working hard to recreate that magic.

“We’ve also got the bars, attractions and market stalls that really make the festive experience and we look forward to continuing to support Nottingham’s reputation as a fantastic destination for all.”

Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at Nottingham City Council, said:“I am pleased that Winter Wonderland will be back at Old Market Square, once again offering an exciting centrepiece for Christmas in Nottingham for residents and visitors alike. This year the attraction opens a week earlier, allowing more time for Christmas shopping, socialising and festive fun for people and families of all ages.

“The Sky Skate and ice rink was a big hit last year, so it’s great to see it return for 2023, as well as the discount for Nottingham city residents. We’re looking forward to working with The Mellors Group to deliver this unique and popular attraction in the heart of Nottingham.”

Alex Flint, CEO of It’s In Nottingham, said: “We’re very pleased to give our support and to share with The Mellors Group, and other strategic partners, the excitement that this year’s Winter Wonderland promises. At all times of the year, but especially during the winter months, events which bring a touch of magic, and create a fun and welcoming vibe in Nottingham city centre, are so important to the local economy. Not only do they provide visitors with an experience to remember, they support local traders and create a buzz in our city centre which keeps people coming back for more.”

More information

Corporate and group bookings are especially welcome. Get in touch via the Winter Wonderland website.

All Winter Wonderland bars and attractions are 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. Visit www.nottinghamwinterwonderland.co.uk