Trafford Centre's 'Tinsel Town' to return this festive season- here's what to expect including ice skating

Greater Manchester's answer to winter wonderland is coming back to the Trafford centre this year. 'Tinsel Town' opens at the shopping centre later this month.

The festive fun opens on Friday November 17 and runs until January 1 outside the Trafford centre's Great Hall. With plenty of fun things to do, you could easily spend all day there getting in the mood for Christmas.

The fun takes the form of an ice rink, festive fairground rides, SNOWSTORM spectacular ice show, magical Christmas Tree bar and other festive fayre. Visitors can embark on a 45 minute ice-skating adventure across a 25m x 20m covered ice rink, underneath a canopy of twinkling lights.

 The festive spirit continues with the magical atmosphere of the Tinsel Town fair. From the exhilarating Snow Jets to the thrilling Starflyer and Don Sapo, as well as plenty of family friendly rides for the little ones, there’s something for everyone. Plus, a brand new fairground attraction for 2023 is VOID, which promises an unparalleled experience for thrill-seekers.

Festive food and drinks will also be available including traditional bratwurst, Yorkshire pudding wraps, donuts, crepes, mulled wine and even a chocolate fountain. Also returning is a magical Christmas Tree bar, crowned by a magnificent Christmas tree standing over 50ft tall - the perfect spot for a family selfie.

Gandeys Snowstorm 3: Northern Lights returns with a sensational ice-skating show, live from the heated theatre big top on 200 sq. meters of shimmering real ice.  Be wowed by this all new production featuring 16 ice skaters, international circus stars, amazing special effects, and the return of the massive ice bears!

The Big Wheel is also back at Trafford Centre until 7 January, where riders can enjoy all the glittering lights and sights whilst soaring above the ground at a staggering 55 metres high.

Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year here at Trafford Centre, where we’re all about making cherished festive memories for families. Wrap up warm and kickstart the festivities with a visit to Tinsel Town, a trip to see Santa in our magical Grotto or simply soak up the atmosphere whilst you shop with our twinkling Christmas lights.”

Tickets to Tinsel Town at the Trafford Centre

Ice skating tickets are £12.50 for adults and £10 for children off-peak / £15 for adults and £12.50 for children peak, for a 45-minute ice skating session. Fairground entry is only £2 if pre-booked online, or £2.50 on the day, with ride tokens available to purchase separately. Opening hours may vary, please check the Trafford Centre website for full opening hours. 

Gandeys Snowstorm 3 tickets are available to purchase priced from £12.99 with great deals to be had on family tickets. Big Wheel tickets are £8 per adults, £6 per child (under 1.4m) and £24 for a family ticket, tickets can be purchased on the day at the Big Wheel.