Thousands glided through the festive season as the Coventry UK City of Culture ice rink proved to be a universal hit.
Skaters from across the world joined people from the city in enjoying Coventry Glides, the magical, festive rink – a partnership between Coventry City of Culture Trust and Coventry City Council, with support from Coventry Business Improvement District.
More than 25,000 people booked tickets to take to the ice in the beautiful surroundings of Coventry Cathedral. Skaters came from across the UK from Aberdeen to Falmouth as well as internationally with skaters coming from across Europe, Australia, Canada and the USA.
Coventry Glides also welcomed celebrity skaters including Hamish Gaman from Dancing on Ice.
Chenine Bhathena, Creative Director of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “Following the success of Coventry Glides in 2020, it was fantastic to bring back more joy to Coventry this winter and see visitors of all ages (and abilities) take to the ice. The ice rink was open just in time to experience the first snow fall and we hope all that joined us have made lasting memories.
“The feedback we have received has been so positive – with people commenting on the organisation of the event, right through to the magical effect it had on them and their families, especially important in these challenging times.
“Coventry Glides was another opportunity to put the city on the map, with national TV and press coverage showing off Coventry and our iconic Cathedral Ruins at their festive best.”
The rink proved to be a hit with people of all ages, including 463 tickets that were issued to local schools, while 2,349 ‘penguins’ – which support beginners on the ice – were hired during the period from 26 November through to 9 January.
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Cabinet Member for Events, Coventry City Council, said: “It was really pleasing to see thousands of people take to the ice as part of the winter festivities and it certainly added a feelgood factor to those visiting and enjoying the city centre.
“A key aim for hosting and supporting the event was to bring additional footfall into the city centre and the fact that over 25,000 people took the opportunity to visit is great news as I’m sure people also spent additional time enjoying the wider holiday offer.
“Coventry Glides was also a key element of a larger promotional campaign led by the Visit Coventry Team, supported by many city partners, which promoted Coventry as a great destination to visit during the festive period and I’m sure many took the opportunity to enjoy what else Coventry had on offer.”