Planet Ice Blackburn
Planet Ice Blackburn offers family fun on the ice with public skating, lessons, and is home to the Blackburn Hawks ice hockey team.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ice time
Planet Ice Blackburn
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ice time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Planet Ice Blackburn offers family fun on the ice with public skating, lessons, and is home to the Blackburn Hawks ice hockey team.
"A popular spot for family fun and ice hockey, with many praising the staff's helpfulness for birthday parties."
Book Online to Save Time
Secure your skate session and avoid queues by booking your tickets and skate hire in advance online. :ticket:
Check for Special Events
Planet Ice Blackburn hosts themed nights and special events. Check their schedule for unique skating experiences! :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Public Skate Sessions
Main Ice Rink
Enjoy a fun-filled session on the ice with lively music, perfect for families and friends of all skill levels.
Blackburn Hawks Home Game
Main Ice Rink
Experience the thrill of live ice hockey as the Blackburn Hawks battle it out on home ice. A must-see for sports fans!
Skating Lessons
Main Ice Rink
Improve your skills with expert coaching. Lessons are available for all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced skaters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Skate Smart: Beat the Crowds
Cafe Rules & Refreshments
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Online to Save Time
Secure your skate session and avoid queues by booking your tickets and skate hire in advance online. :ticket:
Check for Special Events
Planet Ice Blackburn hosts themed nights and special events. Check their schedule for unique skating experiences! :calendar:
Warm Up Before Skating
Do some light stretches before hitting the ice to prevent injuries. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Cafe Policies
Be mindful of the no outside food/drink policy to avoid any issues. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Online to Save Time
Secure your skate session and avoid queues by booking your tickets and skate hire in advance online. :ticket:
Check for Special Events
Planet Ice Blackburn hosts themed nights and special events. Check their schedule for unique skating experiences! :calendar:
Warm Up Before Skating
Do some light stretches before hitting the ice to prevent injuries. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Cafe Policies
Be mindful of the no outside food/drink policy to avoid any issues. :coffee:
Dress in Layers
The rink can be chilly, so wear comfortable, layered clothing that allows for movement. :shirt:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Planet Ice Blackburn is a popular spot for family fun and ice hockey, with many praising the staff's helpfulness, especially for birthday parties. While the ice is well-maintained and lessons are available, some visitors have expressed dissatisfaction with the cafe's strict outside food and drink policy and the abundance of signage. The venue offers a classic ice rink experience, though occasional staff conduct issues have been noted.
"We went for my 7yr olds birthday party and had an amazing time. The staff were brilliant and my son had a truly magical day. Thank you!"
sitcomsoldiers
"Love the 1990’s feel of the building and layout. Very old school that bought back great memories. However the cafe does supply what it should……. But definitely not the best quality. Due to allergies I have to have Alternative milk, which they don’t stock. So with Costa across the road, popped over and bought a coffee. Only to be told I can’t come back in with a Costa in my hand. How ridiculous and petty for such a big company like Plant Ice! It’s like them saying “ we don’t supply what you need BUT how dare you go somewhere else and not have our milk and die on our ice from an allergic reaction”! I was actually told by the nice lady to finish my drink outside of the building.
Smarten up Planet Ice, you poor staff must feel so stupid asking people to drink it outside. Your rules are hilarious (next time, I’m sneaking it in!)
I have also never ever seen so many signs telling me off! On every space available there is a sign “no pushing” “Litter HERE Please” (actually on a BIN!! Hahaha) I’ve never seen a bin before, thank god they put the sign on it! “No smoking” sign next to a bigger “No smoking”. CCTV sign next to the CCTV camera. Don’t do this, don’t do that! On every plexiglass was a warning and a don’t do list! The poor lady at the desk did say (when i was enjoying my alternative Milk Costa) that there is a sign not to bring Costa in! Must have missed that one while reading ALL the other signs!
Can’t believe I missed the sign out the front!"
A Holmesy
"The ice rink in Blackburn is a great spot for skaters of all levels. The rink is clean and well-maintained, with friendly staff ready to help. I enjoyed the family skate sessions, which have a fun atmosphere and lively music.
They offer skating lessons for those looking to improve, and the coaches are supportive and knowledgeable. The on-site café is a nice bonus, serving snacks and warm drinks at reasonable prices.
Overall, the Blackburn ice rink is a fun destination for a day out, whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting!"
Charlotte Stubbs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Planet Ice Blackburn is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop nearby. For specific bus numbers and routes, it's best to check with local transport providers or use a journey planner app. :bus: :car:
Yes, there is parking available at Planet Ice Blackburn. It's advisable to arrive a little early during busy periods to secure a spot. :parking:
Local bus services are the primary public transport option. Check with Blackburn's bus network for routes serving the area around the ice rink. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing for general skate sessions typically includes admission and skate hire. It's recommended to check the official Planet Ice Blackburn website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts. :moneywithwings:
While tickets may be available on the door, booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak times or special events, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Skate hire is usually included in the general admission price for public skate sessions. Ensure you select the correct skate size when booking or upon arrival. :skate:
Planet Ice Blackburn may offer family packages or discounts during certain times. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any special offers. :familymanwomangirlboy:
Opening hours vary depending on the day and scheduled events. Always check the official Planet Ice Blackburn website for the most accurate and current public skating times. :clock1:
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
The ice rink is generally well-maintained, with regular resurfacing by the Zamboni. Visitors often describe it as clean and suitable for skaters of all levels. :ice_skate:
Yes, Planet Ice Blackburn offers a range of skating lessons for all ages and abilities, from beginner to advanced. These are often praised for their supportive coaches. :teacher:
Planet Ice Blackburn is the home of the Blackburn Hawks ice hockey team. You can often attend their home games to experience live hockey matches. :hockey_puck:
Absolutely! Planet Ice Blackburn is a great place for beginners. They offer lessons and the general skate sessions are welcoming to those new to skating. :beginner:
Public skate sessions are known for their fun and lively atmosphere, often featuring music. It's a popular spot for family outings and birthday parties. :party_popper:
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an on-site cafe that serves snacks and warm drinks. It's a convenient place to refuel during your visit. :coffee:
The cafe typically offers a range of snacks and drinks. While some reviews mention it's not the highest quality, it serves its purpose for a quick bite. :snack:
Planet Ice Blackburn has a strict policy against bringing outside food and beverages into the venue. This has been a point of frustration for some visitors. :noentrysign:
Some reviews suggest that healthier options might be limited. If you have specific dietary needs, it's best to check with the cafe in advance or plan accordingly. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
The ice rink itself, especially during a lively public skate session or an ice hockey game, can offer dynamic photo opportunities. Capture the action and the fun atmosphere. :camerawithflash:
Consider attending a public skate session with good lighting and activity, or an ice hockey game for dramatic shots. Early morning or late afternoon sessions might offer softer lighting. :sunrise:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially during lessons or private events. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For parents, it's worth noting the cafe's policy on outside food and drinks. To avoid any issues, plan to purchase refreshments on-site or consume them before entering. Also, dress the kids in layers, as the rink can be cool. Consider booking a skating lesson package for a more structured and skill-building experience. :skate:
🏒 Ice Hockey Fans
While the focus is on the game, be aware of the general venue policies. Some past reviews have highlighted issues with staff conduct during games or practices, so while the sport is the main draw, the overall environment can sometimes be mixed. :trophy:
⛸️ Beginner Skaters
Don't be intimidated! Public skate sessions are a great way to practice in a relaxed setting. Remember to wear comfortable, layered clothing and consider bringing gloves for extra warmth and protection. :athletic_shoe:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun on the Ice
For families looking to enhance their skating experience, consider booking a 'Skate Excellence' course during half-term. These courses often combine lessons with rink access and meals, offering great value. While the cafe's service can sometimes be slow and healthier options might be limited, the overall family-friendly vibe makes it a worthwhile visit. :star2:
Remember to check for any special family skate sessions or events that might be happening during your visit, as these often add an extra layer of fun and engagement for younger skaters. :party_popper:
The Blackburn Hawks Experience
While the primary focus is on the game, the venue itself provides a classic ice rink setting. Visitors can enjoy the sport from the spectator areas. It's worth noting that some past reviews have mentioned instances of staff being overly aggressive towards players during practice or game times, which is something to be aware of regarding the overall environment. :warning:
For ice hockey enthusiasts, checking the Blackburn Hawks' schedule and planning a visit to catch a home game is a must-do activity when at Planet Ice Blackburn. It's a great way to experience the local sporting culture. :trophy:
Navigating Cafe Policies and Visitor Experience
Furthermore, the abundance of signs detailing rules and prohibitions has been noted by several visitors. While intended to maintain order, the sheer volume of 'don't' signs can create an unwelcoming or overly regulated atmosphere. This contrasts with the positive feedback received about the friendly nature of some staff members, particularly those involved in birthday parties or general skating assistance. :speech_balloon:
For a smoother visit, it's advisable to be fully aware of the cafe's restrictions and to adhere to all posted guidelines. Planning to purchase refreshments on-site or consuming them outside the venue before entry can help avoid any potential conflicts and ensure a more enjoyable experience at Planet Ice Blackburn. :checkmarkbutton:
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