A pop-up roller rink is returning to Gateshead’s Metrocentre this summer, giving families a reason to lace up during the school holidays. The rink will set up in Exhibition Square, opposite Primark, from Tuesday 18 August to Bank Holiday Monday 31 August 2026.
Each session lasts 30 minutes and costs £5 per person, which includes skate hire for anyone aged four and above. Adult and junior skates from size six upwards are provided, though skaters can bring their own. The daily programme opens with two Learn to Skate sessions at 9.30am and 10.00am, followed by a SEND-friendly Quiet Session at 10.30am, and then open skating throughout the rest of the day.
The rink is run by Power Through Sport CIC, a North East not-for-profit that uses non-traditional sports like roller skating and ball hockey to boost health and wellbeing. All ticket money goes directly to its community work. Director Johnny Tulip said last August’s inaugural rink drew over 11,000 visitors. “Last August, over 11,000 people joined us on the rink and the response was incredible,” he said.
Booking is recommended but walk-ups will be let in where there is space. The 2026 edition is shorter than the previous year’s four-week run, and sessions have been trimmed from 45 minutes to 30. Tickets and the full schedule are on the Power Through Sport website.
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