The Pleasure Beach Arena in Blackpool has moved to a more structured daily programme, offering residents and visitors expanded opportunities for ice skating beyond traditional public sessions. As the world’s oldest purpose-built ice theatre, the venue is evolving its operations in 2026 to include a wider range of coached lessons and themed evening events.
The updated schedule now features the Skate UK programme, which is the flagship learn-to-skate initiative from British Ice Skating. These lessons are available for beginners and advanced skaters of all ages, covering fundamental skills with clear pathways for those interested in progressing to competition levels. In addition to these core classes, the arena has introduced specialty sessions such as Charlotte’s Spin & Edge and Show Skate, alongside dedicated time for open training.
For those looking for evening entertainment, the venue hosts Beat Night every Saturday from 7:30pm to 9:00pm. This event combines music with skating and dancing, with tickets priced at £15 per person, which includes skate hire.
These developments come as the arena celebrates a significant moment in its history. Opened in October 1937 and recognised by the Guinness Book of Records, the venue has long been a hub for skating talent, including Olympic gold medallist Robin Cousins. The 2026 season also marks the 90th anniversary year of the famous Hot Ice show, which will be presented alongside a new matinee production titled Alice: Frozen in a Wonderland of Dreams.
The facility features a unique horseshoe-shaped ice pad, a dance studio, and on-site cafe and bar amenities to support the new programme. Members of the public can visit the official website to view the full list of available skating times and book their sessions.
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