Manchester Ice Rink
This outdoor rink has a viewing terrace and onsite bar to keep everyone happy. There’s a big screen above the rink where Christmas films and music will be shown, as well as Christmas markets nearby.

Spinning Fields, 10.30am–9pm, 6 Nov–4 Jan 2015.

Selfridges Ice Rink
Christmas shopping can be stressful, so blow off some steam outside the Selfridges store in the Trafford Centre at the ice rink. It’s covered, so you can enjoy it whatever the weather, and is Christmas ‘Storytelling’ themed so expect fairytale-esque decorations. Themed kids nights include ‘Skate and date with Peppa Pig’ and ‘Meet Paddington Bear’ evenings.

Trafford Centre, Manchester, 12pm–10pm (Mon–Fri), 9am–9pm (Sat–Sun), 13 Nov–4 Jan 2015.

Salford Ice Rink
Manchester’s rejuvenated waterfront is setting up its own outdoor ice rink on the Piazza for some atmospheric skating. The Lodge pop-up restaurant and bar will be on hand to refresh hungry and thirsty skaters.

The Piazza, Media City UK, Salford, 11am–9pm, 27 Oct–24 Dec.

Bolton Ice Rink
Head to Victoria Square where there’s not only ice skating on offer, but a Snow Slide and Giant Ferris Wheel to keep the whole family entertained. Parents with kids aged eight and under should head to ‘Slippy Sundays’, a designated safe slot for practising with youngsters.

Victoria Square,10am–5pm (Sun–Wed), 10am–7pm (Thu–Sat), 29 Nov–4 Jan 2015.

Great 2 Skate at Tameside Christmas Market
Like skating but hate getting wet? Try this synthetic ice rink. And it’s under a marquee, so come rain or shine skating is never off the cards. As it’s part of Tameside Christmas Market, there’s plenty going on around the rink too, including a Ferris Wheel and 30 wooden cabin stalls in the town hall selling a range of food and crafts.

Market Street, Ashton-under-Lyne,10am–8.40pm, 2–21 Dec.