TICKETS are on sale for Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Ice Rink, which returns for its 12th run this year.

It will again be sporting its innovative and hugely successful roof, which proved so beneficial last year in guaranteeing a rain-free skate, whilst the open sides enable skaters to enjoy the ice rink’s unique setting under the shadow of the ancient and spectacular architecture of Winchester Cathedral.

The highly popular Ice Café also returns, with a new and exciting offer provided by the Cathedral’s new caterers, BaxterStorey, who took on the contract during August.

Running from November 20 to January 7 a standard ticket for the Ice Rink – which includes an hour’s skating and skate hire – is £11.50, with numerous concessions and packages available, including Parents and Toddlers sessions for 2-4’s, children’s parties and much more.

Located at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s historic Inner Close, the Ice Rink is one of the highlights of Winchester’s Christmas offer attracting an unprecedented 56,000 skaters last year. 

As ever the ice rink will be surrounded by the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market which is frequently featured in the top ten Christmas Markets both nationally and internationally and attracted almost 500,000 people over its five-week run last year.

Some109 festive chalets will abound offering a variety of gifts and a food court with indulgent treats to eat then and there and or take away and enjoy home. The market runs from November 20 to December 22.

Founded in 2006, and originally inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, the cathedral’s Christmas Market is now recognised as one of the best in Europe due to its unique location, high-quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. It is definitely worth a visit.

Ice skating tickets are available from Winchester Cathedral Box Office (01962 857 275) and online at www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk . Entry to the Christmas Market is free of charge. Please use public transport where possible, with excellent rail and bus links to all major cities and networks, it is by far the easiest way to enjoy both events. 

The 2017 Christmas in Winchester Guide, which Winchester Cathedral produces alongside partners throughout the city, is now published, available online at http://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/home/christmas-at-the-cathedral/ 
The essential guide to Christmas events and activities, it will be door-dropped to 50,000 households across the district.