Iona Leaf tackles Cheltenham’s long-awaited ice-rink, this is her advice for anyone who wants to don the skates themselves.
1. What to wear?
Yes, the weather is cold, but the ice is colder – while you’re waiting in line, expect to be freezing, but once you’ve found your rhythm on the ice it can get warm – so wear layers you can gradually remove to prevent uncomfortable over-heating…trust me. If you own your own skates, bring them – just hand your shoes in with everyone else to keep them safe. When getting your skates, size up! Skating is a great photo-op but please prioritise comfort over style – warm leggings or a suitable equivalent (NO JEANS!), fluffy socks (plus a pair underneath), lots of thin layers on top – maybe even hat, gloves, and scarf. Sorted.
1a. BRING SPARE CLOTHES!
Whether you’re accident prone like me or not, the risk of falling is never zero! I can imagine nothing worse than spending the rest of your day in cold and soggy clothes. Spare leggings (or some other warm bottom), spare socks, and even spare underwear (I’m not kidding), will be much appreciated and save you the grumps after you inevitably fall and get wet. I speak from experience and would not wish it upon anybody else.
2. Be aware of your surroundings.
Cheltenham’s ice rink is not that big (compared to others) and it can get very very busy, so just be careful when navigating it. The rink has a one-way system – don’t be that person that gets in everybody’s way because they didn’t listen to instructions. There are also going to be people of all skillsets and abilities – it’s ok to show off your talent, just don’t crash into anyone and cause any accidents – there will be a lot of unsure ‘Bambi’s’ out on the ice, and they won’t have much control – patience is key, but so is spatial awareness.
3. Hot food and drinks after
We’re fortunate enough to have the ice-rink in the heart of town with many options for hot food and drinks available nearby. Warm up after skating (or just watching – an equally as cold, if not colder experience) with the stands on the site offering an assortment of hot drinks and sweet treats including hot chocolates, tea, coffee, a range of non-dairy milk options, flapjacks and brownies. Or venture into town and explore options there.
4. Go at your own pace.
Don’t be embarrassed of your skating ability (or lack thereof), if it takes you a while to get into the swing of things then so be it. Yes, it may be embarrassing to see young children skating better than you, but better to take your time and build up the confidence than to rush ahead and hurt yourself. Just try to remember that you won’t be the only one looking like Bambi on ice.
5. What to do if you have a fall or see someone else fall?
It’s a miracle if you survive the hour without a fall on the ice – I don’t think I’ve ever mastered it, but if you do fall, get back on the horse, laugh it off, and try again. If you’re prone to fainting, like me, or have seriously injured yourself and know not to continue, make your way to the side of the rink and follow it round to an exit or call for help – there are staff members on the ice ready for these situations, all of whom are first-aid trained. If you see someone else fall, please try not to laugh, they will be embarrassed enough as it is, unless they’re a good sport and laugh about it first. But seriously, if you do see someone else fall, offer to help them up and then move on – if they look like they need serious help, take them to the side and call for assistance.
6. Have fun!
Skating is a really fun festive activity for all – don’t let fear or embarrassment get in the way of enjoying yourself! Bring friends, bring family, or go solo, and enjoy every minute!
Later skaters!!
Check out this article here for more on the ice rink.
For more information on where to park, accessibility, skate aids, what else to do in Cheltenham during this festive time etc., visit here: https://www.visitcheltenham.com/ice-skating/faqs
To purchase tickets, go here.
