Frequently Asked Questions
We want to make sure your trip to the Victoria Centre Ice Rink is a special one so please have a look at the following advice to ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible:
How early do I need to arrive before my skating session starts?
We advise you to get to the Victoria Centre Ice Rink 45 minutes before your session is due to start so you have time to get your skates on, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy your full session on the ice.
How do I get to the rink?
Well public transport to Nottingham and to the Old Market Square itself is plentiful and reliable with a regular bus, tram and train service into the city.
View a map
If you are driving into the city why not use the Victoria Centre Car Park. If you leave your car there after 4pm from now until Christmas Eve, not only will it cost you just £3.50 but you could be lucky enough to win a fantastic prize! If you receive a blue chip rather than the normal yellow one when you park – take it to the Information Desk inside the Centre and claim your prize.
Will I still be able to skate if it rains or snows?
Don’t worry the Victoria Centre Rink is in the open-air and skating will go on whatever the weather, so make sure you wrap up warm. Pull on an extra pair of thick socks and don’t forget your gloves, hat and warm coat. Remember umbrellas are not allowed on the rink so we recommend you bring a waterproof coat in case it rains.
I have my own skates so can I wear them at the rink? Yes you can. Your admission price does include skate hire but if you own your own skates and they are in good condition, please feel free to use them although the ticket price will remain the same.
I’ve never skated before and I’m a bit worried I’ll fall over.
Well it is slippy out there! But don’t worry even if you’re an absolute beginner, our on-ice assistants will be around to lend you a hand and pass on some basic skating tips.
If you really want to impress your friends when you hit the ice then get in some practice before your visit to the Victoria Centre Ice Rink. We have daily sessions running at the National Ice Centre for everyone from complete beginners to teenagers who fancy a disco session. You can also book onto our six week learn to skate programme – Skate UK – and get some tips from our expert coaches or arrange a one-to-one private tuition lesson. Log onto www.national-ice-centre for more details or call 0115 853 3036.
Is there anywhere I can leave my bag?
We do have a small numbers of lockers on-site located behind skate hire – the charge is £1 and they will be accessed by our Rink Assistants. Skaters are also reminded that bags, mobiles, long scarves and personal music players are not allowed on the ice at any time so leave them at home if you can.
The lockers are ideal for personal belongings however we recommend that if you want to do your Christmas shopping in the city’s fantastic shops, do it after your skate and not before!
Can I get something to eat and drink at the rink?
Tempting traditional food and drink will be available at the German Market which will be right next to the Victoria Centre Ice Rink until 21st December. Other food outlets will be available after that date and for the duration of the rink.
Make sure you treat yourself to a delicious bite before or after your skate because food and drink is not allowed on the ice.
Can my friends and family watch me skate?
Yes spectators are welcome at the rink – they can grab a warm drink and watch the world glide by from our spectator areas around the rink.
Can I take photographs on the ice?
We know you will want to capture your moment on the ice so please feel free to take cameras on the ice (at your own risk) with you – although a disposable camera might be advisable in case you slip! Please only take snaps of the people in your party.
Is it ok to take my children on the ice?
Youngsters will love the frozen fun they can have on the ice but it’s up to parents and guardians to decide if their child is safe to skate.
Please note children under the age of two are not allowed on the ice in the interests of safety, if your child is aged between two and eight they must be accompanied by an adult at all times and there must be no more than a ratio of one adult to four children in each group.
The smallest size skate we have is a child’s size seven.
If you’re little ones do enjoy skating then why not bring them to a Parent and Toddler session at the National Ice Centre and help them build up their confidence on the ice. The sessions run every week and are fantastic fun for under fives. Call the National Ice Centre for further information on 0115 853 3036.
And finally please note…Skating is at your own risk and remember alcohol and skating don’t mix – so for your safety and enjoyment leave the booze behind!