Pros & cons
PROS
- Covered, all‑weather rink in the heart of Aviemore
- Skate hire, tea/coffee, and kids’ skating aids
CONS
- Small rink that can feel crowded at peak times
- Advance booking recommended, especially weekends and holidays
Overview
Aviemore Ice Rink is a compact, community‑minded spot tucked within the Macdonald Aviemore Resort. It’s housed under a large marquee with an alpine vibe, so rain, wind, or snow won’t cancel your plans. Expect a friendly, family‑first atmosphere rather than a giant arena.
What You’ll Do
Public skating sessions run most afternoons into the evening, with themed sessions popping up (think family ice discos). There’s skate hire on site, hot drinks like tea and coffee, and practical touches for younger skaters—bob‑skates and those penguin/polar bear aids to keep wobbly legs upright. The rink also hosts curling sessions, lessons, and occasional figure or hockey slots, so it pays to check what’s on before you go.
Why It’s Different Here
In a park famous for mountains and forests, this is a rare all‑weather indoor activity right in town—perfect when the Highland weather turns. It’s a social, welcoming place that locals clearly care about, and that comes through in the reviews: friendly staff, well‑run sessions, and a small‑but‑spirited rink that keeps the fun going year‑round.
What to Expect
- Size: It’s a small rink, so it’s cozy—and can get busy.
- Vibe: Relaxed, family‑friendly, and beginner‑friendly.
- Facilities: Skate hire, hot drinks, and kid‑friendly skating aids are available.
- Booking: Online booking is easy and often advised.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re traveling with kids, want a rest‑day from the hills, or need a reliable rainy‑day plan, yes—this is a great hour of fun. If you’re after a vast performance rink, this isn’t it; the charm here is the community feel and convenience.
Wildlife
None here—it’s indoors. Save your wildlife hopes for the forests and moorland outside town.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays and earlier sessions are typically quieter.
- School holidays and weekends fill quickly—book in advance.
- Afternoon light is fine for photos; evenings add the fun of disco sessions.
Need‑to‑Know
- It’s not a large rink—skate considerately and follow the flow to avoid bottlenecks.
- Sessions vary (public skate, curling, lessons). Check the schedule before you go.
Where it is
57.1896, -3.8327Tips for Aviemore Ice Rink
- 01Book online in advance for weekends and school holidays.
- 02Arrive early to snag your preferred skate sizes.
- 03Bring gloves and a warm layer—marquee or not, it’s chilly on the ice.
- 04Choose weekday or earlier sessions for more space on the rink.
- 05Pair a skate with nearby resort activities to round out the day.
Amenities
Near Aviemore Ice Rink
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayThe Aviemore CentreTown hub for gym time and easy, all‑weather downtime
0.1 mi awayCairngorm HotelClassic Highland hotel opposite the station with a lively barLodging · Restaurant
0.1 mi awayAviemore SuperchargerFast Tesla charging in hotel grounds, 5-min walk to townParking · Food
0.1 mi awayAviemore Visitor Information CentreYour first stop for tailored local advice in central AviemoreVisitor Center · Restroom
0.2 mi awayEast Highland WayQuieter Highlands traverse from Ben Nevis to Aviemore’s pinewoodsModerate · 82 mi · 45 hr
0.4 mi awayCraigellachie Nature Reserve Viewpoint TrailQuick Aviemore escape to birchwoods, lochans, and a big summit viewEasy · 2.7 mi · 1.5 hr
0.4 mi awayCraigellachie Lochan TrailShort lochan loop with birchwoods, crags, and easy access from AviemoreEasy · 0.4 mi · 36 min
0.4 mi awayCraigellachie Woodland TrailBirchwoods, lochans, and raptors minutes from AviemoreEasy · 1.1 mi · 45 min
