A MAJOR North East attraction that creates all the magic of the festive season is set to return this Christmas.
South Shields’ Ocean Beach Pleasure Park has unveiled its plans for this year’s real ice rink, with sessions available for everyone from experts to amateurs.
And the park is also offering a range of packages for groups who may want to have a Christmas get-together with a difference.
The real ice rink – housed undercover in a marquee – will open at 4pm on 6 December and run until Sunday 5 January 2025.
Visitors can book for an hour-long session, which includes hire of ice skates, at £14 per person or £48 for a family/group ticket for up to four people.
Organisers have also designated the slot from 11am until noon on Sundays as a quiet hour, where there will be no flashing lights or music so perfect for any youngsters with sensory issues or people who just prefer less noise.
Ocean Beach is also offering an exclusive use package for schools, corporate celebrations or large get togethers for families, friends or colleagues.
The package costs £399 and along with skate hire includes free use of skate aids – which normally cost £5.
The ice rink will open from 11am on weekends and during school holidays at from 9am on Christmas Eve.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the many other attractions at Ocean Beach, including the park’s amusement arcades and food and drink outlets – Scoop & Bean, Log Cabin Fisheries and Ocean Food Court – which will be offering a range of treats including Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, Pigs in Blankets, festive drinks and Christmas Tree Waffles.
Michael Sheeran, operator at Ocean Beach, said launching the ice rink early means that nobody will be disappointed.
“We know that people are now planning their Christmas nights out or looking for things to do with their families,” he said.
“The ice rink is popular every year so we are giving everyone the opportunity to book early and have something to look forward to.”
Bookings are now open and can be made at https://www.oceanbeach.co.uk/ice-skating/
Details of all the attractions at Ocean Beach can be found at www.oceanbeach.co.uk