Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar to return for Festive Derby 2025

Derby City Council and the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) are delighted to announce that the city’s popular ice rink will return this Christmas – and tickets are on sale now.

Following its huge popularity in 2024, which saw over 11,800 people enjoy the ice, the undercover Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink will once again be the centrepiece of festive fun in Derby Market Place. It will be open from November 29 right up until New Year’s Eve.

Whether you’re an ice-skating pro or just finding your feet, it’s the perfect way to embrace the Christmas spirit. Skaters of all ages and abilities are welcome to enjoy hour-long sessions, with skate hire included in the price. Plus, for those who need a little extra stability, free skate aids will be available.

Accompanying the ice rink will be the fantastic Nordic Bar, with its eye-catching tipis making a welcome return thanks to Sami Tipi and Mambo Bars. It’s the ideal spot to warm up and relax, with stunning festive foliage, disco balls, twinkling lights, and cosy firepits creating a magical atmosphere.

This year’s festivities also include the return of the Festive Derby Light Trail, and the newly reopened Derby Market Hall will be joining in the city-wide celebrations.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink has become a beloved part of Christmas in Derby, and its return, along with the fantastic Nordic Bar, is highly anticipated! I’m really excited to see our stunning Market Hall be a part of this year’s celebrations too. Festive Derby gets bigger and better every year and 2025 is no exception. We can’t wait to welcome everyone into the city centre to enjoy it.”

Just like last year, the Nordic Bar will be serving up a tempting selection of drinks, including steaming speciality hot chocolates, mulled wine, and festive cocktails. You’ll also find more tasty treats from our on-site food vendors. The tipis will once again host a fantastic programme of entertainment, featuring live music, children’s shows and more! The combined appeal of the ice rink and Nordic Bar proved more popular than ever in 2024, attracting almost 7,500 more visitors compared to the previous year.

Craig Bidder, founder of The Nordic Bar Co, said: “Derby’s incredible welcome always blows us away! We’re so excited to return, bringing our tipis to create another magical season. Prepare for even more festive sparkle under the tipis!”

Brad Worley, Manager for the Cathedral Quarter and St Peters Quarter BIDs, said: “We’re thrilled to be sponsoring the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink once again, in partnership with Derby City Council. The rink has become a real centrepiece of Festive Derby, bringing families into the heart of the Cathedral Quarter and supporting our fantastic local businesses.

“We’re proud to play a part in creating a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the season and everything Derby has to offer.”

The Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink and Nordic Bar will open on Saturday 29 November, as Festive Derby is officially launched with our Christmas Lights Switch-On event, with our media partner Smooth Radio. Festive light installations will lead you through the city centre to the magical Cathedral Quarter, where there’ll be festive entertainment to enjoy on selected weekends.

Last year’s visitors were left feeling truly festive:

“An incredible day for young and old celebrating in the heart of the city that yule love…” What’s Good To Do

“Whether you’re here for the dazzling lights, festive drinks, or simply to soak in the Christmas spirit, Festive Derby offers something for everyone…” Derby Days Out

Tickets for the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink are on sale now 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 – you can book 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 £12 during peak sessions and £10 for off-peak sessions. Under 16s tickets are £10 during peak sessions and £8 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 Dick Whittington from Friday 5 – Wednesday 31 December.

You can also see a brand-new festive tale from the Lost Boys, Merry Elwin The Adventurous Elf, at Chapel Street Arts Centre from Thursday 11 until Tuesday 23 December. This heartwarming show is perfect for families and festive enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful blend of humour, heart, and holiday cheer.

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.