Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar to return for Festive Derby 2026

Child skating on the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink

Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) have confirmed that the city's beloved ice rink will be making a welcome comeback this Christmas, with tickets available to book from Sat 1 Aug.

Located in Derby Market Place, the covered Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink is set to be the star attraction of this year's seasonal celebrations. Skaters can hit the ice from Fri 28 Nov all the way through to New Year’s Eve.

From seasoned skaters to absolute beginners, the rink offers a wonderful festive activity for all ages and skill levels. Ticket prices include full-hour sessions and skate hire, with free balance aids available for anyone needing a bit of extra support on the ice.

Making a popular return alongside the rink is the enchanting Nordic Bar, brought to life in partnership with Sami Tipi and Mambo Bars. Housed inside striking tipis, it provides the ultimate winter retreat to thaw out and unwind. Guests can soak up the atmosphere complete with twinkling fairy lights, festive greenery, disco balls, and roaring firepits.

Councillor Gurkiran Kaur, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre, Culture and Tourism, said:

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink is a highlight of the festive calendar in Derby, and we’re thrilled to bring it back alongside the brilliant Nordic Bar. Festive Derby continues to grow year after year, and 2026 is shaping up to be our best yet. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors into the city centre to make some magical memories.

Visitors to the Nordic Bar can look forward to a rich menu of seasonal drinks, from rich hot chocolates and spiced mulled wine to festive cocktails, alongside a lineup of delicious local food vendors. The tipis will also play host to an array of live entertainment, including musical performances and family shows.

Building on the success of last year, which saw over 22,000 visitors head to the Nordic Bar and 11,000 people take the ice, this season promises to be even bigger.

Craig Bidder, founder of The Nordic Bar Co, said:

We always get such a fantastic reception in Derby! Returning with our tipis for another Christmas is an absolute joy, and we’re getting ready to bring even more seasonal cheer to the city centre this year.

Brad Worley, Manager for the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said:

We’re delighted to partner with Derby City Council once again to sponsor the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink. It has become a true focal point for the festive season, creating a fantastic buzz, boosting footfall for our local traders, and sprinkling a special Christmas magic over the city centre.

The ice rink and Nordic Bar will officially open on Sat 28 Nov to coincide with the grand launch of Festive Derby and the Christmas Lights Switch-On, supported by media partner Smooth Radio. Visitors can follow illuminated trail displays across the city centre leading into the Cathedral Quarter, where weekend entertainment will be hosted throughout the season.

Last year’s visitors were left feeling truly festive:

“This season, Derby is the ultimate choice for unforgettable experiences that will shine brightly in your memories for years to come…Festive Derby has it all. A true Christmas gift wrapped in joy and wonder, it’s the perfect destination to make your celebrations unforgettable!” What’s Good To Do

Tickets for the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink are on sale from Sat 1 Aug so if you want to secure the date for a festive group get-together, plan a work event or simply want something exciting to look forward to, book your tickets now. The rink is popular for group bookings and is also available for private hire, so if you’re planning an event, get in touch!

Standard tickets priced at £13 during peak sessions and £11 for off-peak sessions. Under 16s tickets are £11 during peak sessions and £9 during off-peak sessions.

There are family and group discounts available, starting at groups of 4+, with larger discounts available for bigger group bookings. There will also be special sessions for toddlers and their parents/carers. The rink is wheelchair accessible. Check the Derby LIVE website for opening times and booking information.

Of course, the festive season wouldn’t be complete without Derby’s annual panto spectacular at Derby Arena. This year we’re teaming up with Morgan Brind and the multi award-winning Little Wolf Entertainment  again to present Snow White from Fri 4 to Thu 31 Dec.

Tickets for all shows and attractions can be purchased on the Derby LIVE website, at the Sales and Information Centre, 19 Chapel Street, Derby, DE1 3GU, or by calling 01332 255 800.