Pictures: Strong opening weekend for Torquay’s Bay of Lights ice rink

Torquay is officially skating into the festive season, with the Bay of Lights ice rink now open and welcoming crowds after its launch on Saturday. 

Set beneath a canopy of sparkling lights in Abbey Park, the real ice rink has already proved a major hit, drawing families, friends and plenty of excited first-time skaters across its opening weekend.

The rink will run daily until 2 January with hourly sessions for up to 80 skaters, operating in all weather, and is fully wheelchair accessible,. With strong demand over the first few days, organisers are encouraging people to book ahead, especially for weekends and school holidays. 

Families can also take advantage of Parent & Toddler sessions every Friday between 11am and 1pm, including Boxing Day. Extra events include Quiet Sessions on 16 and 17 December from 4pm to 5pm - with low lighting and no music - and a Princess & Prince Night on 16 December at 7pm, where dressing up is encouraged!

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services at Torbay Council, said: “This marks the first time in years that Torquay is hosting a real ice rink, and we couldn’t be more excited. We know many people still fondly remember when ice skating was a regular feature in the Bay, and we hope those cherished memories inspire families to come together and experience the magic once again.”