Dedicated SEND Ice Skating Sessions at Portsmouth On Ice 2026

Portsmouth On Ice is introducing dedicated SEND ice skating sessions for 2026, offering quieter, slower-paced opportunities to enjoy the festive ice rink in Guildhall Square.

The sessions have been introduced following popular demand and take place on selected weekdays and weekends throughout November and December.

They are designed for people who may benefit from a calmer skating environment and a more relaxed pace.

Portsmouth On Ice returns to Guildhall Square from 21 November 2026 until 3 January 2027, bringing outdoor festive ice skating back to the centre of Portsmouth.

For families searching for SEND activities in Hampshire, accessible Christmas events or inclusive things to do in Portsmouth, these dedicated sessions are worth adding to the diary.

Portsmouth On Ice SEND session dates

There are six dedicated SEND sessions scheduled for the 2026 season, including weekday and weekend options.

Sunday 22 November – 11am to 12pm
Wednesday 25 November – 4.45pm to 5.45pm
Tuesday 1 December – 5.45pm to 6.45pm
Saturday 5 December – 9am to 10am
Sunday 13 December – 9am to 10am
Saturday 19 December – 9am to 11am

The different times are intended to give families more choice when finding a session that works for them.

A quieter ice skating experience in Portsmouth

Christmas events can be busy, noisy and overwhelming for some visitors.

The dedicated SEND sessions aim to provide a quieter and slower-paced skate, while still giving visitors the chance to experience Portsmouth's festive outdoor ice rink.

This could make the sessions particularly useful for children, young people and adults who would feel more comfortable skating at a quieter time.

The introduction of dedicated sessions also gives families the chance to plan ahead and choose a date that best suits their needs.

Portsmouth On Ice returns for Christmas 2026

The outdoor ice rink will once again take over Guildhall Square in Portsmouth city centre for the festive season.

Portsmouth On Ice officially opens on 21 November 2026 and runs until 3 January 2027. Tickets for the 2026 season are now available.

Alongside the SEND sessions, the rink has a programme of skating sessions throughout the Christmas period.

Its central location also makes it easy to combine your visit with Christmas shopping, food or other festive activities in Portsmouth.

At a glance

What: Dedicated SEND Ice Skating Sessions
Where: Portsmouth On Ice
Location: Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB
Dates: Selected dates from 22 November to 19 December 2026
Session length: Most sessions are one hour; 19 December runs for two hours
Designed for: Visitors who may benefit from a quieter, slower-paced skating session
Portsmouth On Ice season: 21 November 2026–3 January 2027

Good to know before you go

The SEND sessions take place at the main Portsmouth On Ice rink in Guildhall Square.

As the dedicated sessions run on specific dates and times, check availability and book your chosen session in advance.

If you have specific accessibility requirements or questions about whether the sessions will meet your needs, contact Portsmouth On Ice before visiting. The organisers list enquiries@portsmouthiceskating.uk and 0845 299 7991 for enquiries.

For families looking for SEND-friendly things to do in Hampshire this Christmas, these sessions provide another way to enjoy one of Portsmouth's seasonal attractions.

FAQs

When are the Portsmouth On Ice SEND sessions?

Dedicated sessions take place on 22 and 25 November, followed by 1, 5, 13 and 19 December 2026.

What is different about the SEND sessions?

The sessions have been introduced to provide a quieter, slower-paced skating experience for visitors who may benefit from this environment.

Where is Portsmouth On Ice?

The rink is in Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB.

When does Portsmouth On Ice open for Christmas 2026?

The 2026 season runs from 21 November 2026 until 3 January 2027.

Do the SEND sessions run at weekends?

Yes. Weekend sessions include 22 November, 5 December, 13 December and 19 December.

Do I need to book?

Booking in advance is advisable, particularly for dedicated sessions with limited availability. Tickets for the 2026 Portsmouth On Ice season are currently available.