Ice Skating in Portsmouth

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South Western Railway October 31, 2025 17 min read

In this article, you'll learn the following:

Where and when is Portsmouth on Ice?
How do I get to this activity in Portsmouth?
What to expect at this year’s Ice Skating in Portsmouth
Things to do near Portsmouth
Where to stay in Portsmouth
Portsmouth on Ice Accessibility

Get ready for fun on the ice at Portsmouth on Ice this Christmas season. The popular Christmas activity in Portsmouth is returning this November for its 6th year at Guildhall Square. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’re guaranteed to have fun at this event. Go with family or friends, early or late you’ll be catered for. This year has new tips and tricks sessions led by experts, where you might even learn a trick or two, along with the usual favourites. The real ice on the rink makes Portsmouth on Ice stand out from the rest. The ice is regularly reconditioned to keep it in top condition for the smoothest skate.

Where and when is Portsmouth on Ice?

People ice skating

Portsmouth on Ice takes place at Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB from the 22 November 2025 to 4th January 2026. Open every day, except Christmas day, keeping you entertained the whole season long. The rink is open from 10am to anyone from age 3+ years. 3 – 7-year-olds must be accompanied on the ice by an adult.

Tickets begin at £13.50 for children 5-15 years old, with adults costing £17.00 at peak times. Family tickets range from £48.00 to £52.00. You can find more ticket information for Portsmouth Ice Skating here.

How do I get to this activity in Portsmouth?

Travelling by train to Portsmouth

Portsmouth on Ice is conveniently located close to SWR train services and is easily accessible from many surrounding locations. The closest station to the event is Portsmouth and Southsea Train Station, which is located right across from Guildhall Square, approx. one-minute walk away. This station is served with regular trains from stations such as London Waterloo and Bournemouth. Closer stations such as Winchester and Southampton also serve Portsmouth and Southsea using direct trains with SWR.

Explore our full range of ticket types to find the right one for your journey to Kingston for the Christmas markets. You can find cheap train tickets by booking early or going off-peak, and if you have a Railcard or if you’re travelling in a group, you could save even more.

What to expect at this year’s Ice Skating in Portsmouth

People ice skating

Dedicated SEND skate sessions

These skate sessions are specifically designed to help people with special education needs and disabilities, providing everyone with equal access to fun on the ice. These sessions take place at certain times so be sure to check these out before you go.

Live DJ Skate Sessions

Dance and sing your way around the rink at this year’s Portsmouth on Ice. Certain sessions throughout the season include live music/DJ rink side. This year, they take place on Saturday 29th November and Saturday 3rd January, with potentially more dates to be added.

Skate Tips and Tricks

Are you a beginner or looking to learn a few new tricks on the ice? Then the Tips and Tricks sessions are for you. From 9am -10am Monday 24th 25 November – Friday 19th December 25 you can avail of these sessions. Designed for any ability for people who want to learn you will be accompanied on the ice in groups of approx. 30 by the staff who can help you improve and provide some demos where needed.

Things to do near Portsmouth

Portsmouth is known for its famous dock in the heart of the city. The dock is surrounded by a modern centre with entertainment, galleries, shopping and more, making it the perfect destination for a weekend away. If you decide to stay for a few nights, you will find plenty of accommodation options below to suit all budgets.

A well-connected city with travel links from London and other surrounding areas, you will be able to travel to and from Portsmouth seamlessly. SWR serves the area with many direct links. You can travel direct from London Waterloo to Portsmouth and Southsea station in approx. 1.5 to 2 hours. There are 4 main train stations in Portsmouth, all serviced by SWR – Hilsea, Fratton, Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth and Southsea.

Where to stay in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is home to a wide selection of accommodation options. From the unique Number-Four boutique hotel to the adults-only Clarence hotel you’re sure to find something to suit all.

Plan the perfect weekend using our Portsmouth destination guide to help prepare your next adventure in the south west.

Portsmouth on Ice Accessibility

Portsmouth Ice Skating rink is wheelchair accessible, however wheelchair users need to be accompanied by a carer when attending. Carers can skate free of charge, and upon arrival, staff will assist wheelchair users and their companion to the rink via a ramp. People with special educational needs, disabilities or sensory sensitivities are welcome to the rink and daytime skating is recommended particularly before school holidays (19th December) as a perfect time for anyone who would rather a quieter time to skate, with less people on the ice.