Outdoor Ice Skating Tips for Beginners
2nd Nov 2023
As the temperatures drop and Stockeld Park transforms into a winter wonderland, we invite you to lace up your skates and join us on the ice.
Whether you’re a complete novice or want to improve your skating skills, this is your essential guide to mastering the art of outdoor ice skating. Strap on your skates, and let’s begin!
Where to Go Ice Skating in Yorkshire
Come to Stockeld Park for an exciting day of ice skating in Yorkshire! From the 18th of November 2023 to the 8th of January 2024, all are welcome to whizz around our excellent ice rink.
Skate around 630 square metres of ice carefully covered to protect you from the elements. Around the rink, you’ll have panoramic views of the park’s Enchanted Forest, lit with magical Winter Illuminations throughout the Christmas Adventure.
During the Christmas Adventure, the last entry to the ice rink is at 8:30pm (closes 9pm), so you have lots of time to make beautiful memories! Plus, you can skate during our Winter Weekends and February Adventure. By early next year, you’ll be an ice skating pro.
Want the ice rink to yourself? We offer ice skating parties for up 20 children! Get one hour of skating alongside a delicious feast of pizzas at our Woodland Cafe. Bring along balloons, cake, party bags and anything else you need to celebrate! Book your skate party today for an exhilarating birthday experience.
Children between the ages of 4 and 8 always require adult supervision. For children aged 8-16, our team will require parents to supervise from the side of the rink.
6 Tips for Ice Skating
1. Dress Smartly
Ice skating is a great way to warm you on those cold winter days. Dress in layers that you can easily remove if you get too hot. Avoid skinny jeans, long skirts or floaty items as they restrict free movement.
2. Select the Right Skates
At Stockeld Park, we rent out ice skates, so you don’t need to bring your own. When you arrive, borrow a pair that fits your feet comfortably. If they feel too loose or tight, select a different size to avoid the risk of injury.
3. Tie Skates Correctly
Our ice skates come with a clip for you to start skating in no time. Sit on a bench and fasten the clips so your feet feel snug but not tight. Having your skates loose won’t provide enough support for your ankles, so get wrapped up!
4. Keep Your Head Up
Ice skating is all about good balance. Often, people will spend their time looking at the ground rather than up ahead. Don’t do this! Look in the direction you’re going to avoid clashing with other skaters.
5. Don’t Lean Backwards
When you learn back, you’ll end up flying onto your backside. Ouch! Bend your knees, lean forward and hold on to the barriers if you’re worried about slipping.
6. Get Back Up Safely
We all start like Bambi on ice when we first start skating. If you trip over, don’t ask someone to help you up, as it can result in them falling alongside you. Turn onto your knees, place one foot down and use your hands to keep balance as you bring your body up.
Get Ice Skating at Stockeld Park
Get your Ice Skating tickets online for single sessions. Book now to avoid disappointment!