MediaCityUK is home to a magical new ice rink experience this year, launched on the 15th November. It is the spectacular centrepiece of the festivities which has transform MediaCityUK this Christmas, it also includes a Christmas Market and light festival.

The Ice Rink will features “The Retreat” – a winter cabin offering treats for skaters and non-skaters alike.

The 500sq ft ice rink accommodates up to 200 skaters at one time. The rink brings a premium skating experience to Salford Quays and is run by Blue Martini Group, who have vast experience of running pop-up festive rinks in Manchester and other cities around the UK. It’s the first time their Manchester Ice Rink brand has come to MediaCityUK with this year’s event promising to be their finest festive skating experience yet, featuring a wet-weather-proof undercover rink made from real ice. There will also be the option to hire the rink for schools/groups and corporate parties.

The ice rink and Retreat will provide the perfect ‘winter escape’ from the madness of the city centre, offering a magical festive experience by the river at MediaCityUK. The destination is easily accessible by tram and road transport links with ample parking making it a stress free option this Christmas.

The ice rink offers a unique family-friendly festive experience with everything from Penguin Helpers for little ones to the perfect mulled wine for Mum and Dad – there’s plenty of opportunities to make truly special memories this Christmas.

The Retreat will provide the perfect setting for those who don’t fancy preparing for Dancing On Ice to watch wannabee Torvill and Deans or the kids attempting to ‘let it go’ like Elsa from the comfort of an alpine chalet style haven. Visitors can expect a cosy cabin complete with wooden bench seating, faux furs, festoon fairy lights and lots of warm nooks in which to snuggle up and enjoy the rink from afar. The perfect setting to get you in the mood for a cosy, magical Christmas with or without the skating. The venue will offer an array of drinks perfect to give you that Christmas glow. There will be hot cider, homemade mulled wine, draft beers, wines, a range of soft drinks, teas and coffees. They’ve not forgotten hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream, and, because it’s Salford, there will be hot Vimto on tap too. The Retreat is open to everyone, not just those skating.

Whether you’re looking for a magical destination for the family, the perfect after-work festive experience, a weekend out with friends or something to do after the theatre – Manchester Ice Rink at MediaCityUK is your one stop winter wonderland.

Jason Williams from Blue Martini Group said: “We are thrilled to be working with Peel Group to bring our premium Manchester Ice Rink skating experience to MediaCityUK. The rink along with The Retreat will be a fantastic addition to the festive fun happening down at the Quays creating a really special festive destination this Christmas. It’s the perfect family attraction, as well as great spot for after work celebrations or anyone looking for fun on the ice!”

Manchester Ice Rink at MediaCityUK is open from 15th November 2019 through to 5th January 2020. It is open to the public as follows:

· Monday – Friday: 3:00pm – Last Skate Session ends 20:45

· Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am – Last Skate Session ends 21:00

· Student Tickets are only available at the rink from Monday to Thursday up to                      December 21st. ID must be shown.

· From 10.00am during Christmas school holidays

Prices for an hour long skating session are £13 for Adults and £11 for children with a family of four special ticket for just £40. Students tickets are £10 from Monday to Thursday available only at the rink.

To book and to find more information on timings and pricing visit

The Retreat will be open from 2pm Monday to Friday from the 15th November until the start of the school holidays when it will open from 10am until 10pm until the end of the season.

There will be happy hour offers from 5pm till 7pm Monday to Friday with draft beers and mulled wine at £3.50.

Discounted tickets for a draft beer or mulled wine and an ice skating ticket will also be available at manchestericerink.com