York Museum Gardens Ice Rink 2026 – Christmas Skating Returns After 16 Years
Featured image: artist’s impression of THOR’S on ICE. Image credit: THOR’S on ICE.
Discover THOR’S on ICE, Lucia Après Bar and a festive stay in York
For the first time in 16 years, Christmas ice skating is returning to York city centre.
THOR’S on ICE brings a new covered outdoor ice rink to Museum Gardens for Christmas 2026, giving visitors another reason to turn a festive day out into a winter weekend away. The rink is organised by THOR’S, with Lucia bringing its hospitality to the rinkside Lucia Après Bar.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a Christmas break with friends or a few days away as a couple, skating followed by dinner in York makes a lovely addition to your stay.
Where is York’s new Christmas ice rink?
You’ll find THOR’S on ICE in York Museum Gardens, behind York Art Gallery.
The location makes it easy to fit skating into a day exploring the city. Spend the morning browsing independent shops, stop for lunch, then head to the gardens for your booked session.
The rink uses real ice and has a transparent covering, providing some protection from rain while keeping the atmosphere of outdoor winter skating. Find out more on the official THOR’S on ICE website.
When is THOR’S on ICE open?
The rink runs from Friday 13 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027, with a closure on Christmas Day.
That gives you the chance to visit during the build-up to Christmas, between Christmas and New Year, or over the first weekend of January.
Opening hours vary during the season, so check the available sessions for your chosen date when booking.
Tickets and skating sessions
The organiser currently lists:
- Adult tickets from £12
- Children’s tickets from £11
- Student and concession tickets from £10
- Family tickets available
Sessions include 45 minutes on the ice. Arrive at least 20 minutes beforehand to check in and get your skates fitted.
Prices depend on the session and ticket type. Check the official booking information and FAQs before making plans.
Do you need to be an experienced skater?
Beginners are welcome, so you don’t need to arrive with anything more ambitious than the intention to enjoy yourself.
Skating aids, including penguins, are available in limited numbers and cannot be guaranteed. If your group includes children or anyone who needs extra assistance, check the organiser’s current requirements before booking.
Warm up at Lucia Après Bar
Part of the pleasure of winter skating is what comes afterwards.
Lucia Après Bar brings a little Italian flavour to THOR’S on ICE, with a seasonal bar beside the rink serving hot chocolate, mulled wine, mulled rosé, Champagne and cocktails.
It’s a collaboration between two familiar York names: THOR’S organises the skating attraction, while Lucia provides the Après Bar experience. Lucia’s restaurant on Swinegate is a separate venue, ideal if you’d like to book lunch or dinner before or after skating.
Find out more about the drinks and setting on the official Lucia Après Bar page.
The nearby THOR’S tipi offers another place to continue the evening. Visit York also lists step-free access to the rink and tipi, along with on-site toilets. See the Visit York listing for more details.
Make it a Christmas weekend in York
Staying overnight gives you time to enjoy more than one festive attraction without trying to squeeze everything into a single day.
Start with Christmas shopping and a wander through York’s historic streets, leave time for your skating session, then enjoy dinner before returning to your apartment.
For more ideas to combine with the rink, read our guide to Christmas in York 2026.
Visiting after New Year? The rink continues until 3 January, making it an option for an early January break in York.
Where to stay for Christmas ice skating in York
Railway House York offers eight individually designed self-catering apartments with space to settle in and enjoy your stay.
With kitchens, comfortable living areas and gated on-site parking, you can leave the car behind while exploring York, then return to somewhere warm after your time on the ice.
Choose an apartment for a couple’s festive escape, a family weekend or a break with friends.
Railway House York — city break, countryside feeling.
