Cork's winter skating tradition — long run as the Alpine Skate Trail — is back under the Cork On Ice name, with real, machine-smoothed ice inside the city's favourite street-food market, Marina Market.
Sessions last 45 minutes on a fully covered rink of real ice, continuously resurfaced by professional Zamboni machines, so the weather rarely spoils a booking. Skate rental is included, in sizes from kids' 8 to adult 14.
Beginners and young skaters can use double-bladed stability skates and penguin skate aids, which are reserved for children under 1.2 m and may only be used in the small rink area. Pre-book aids to guarantee availability.
The rink sits inside Marina Market, surrounded by Christmas lights and the buzz of Cork's best-known food market — an easy pairing of a skate session with a wander round the stalls.
Marina Market supplies the food side of a visit: street-food traders, artisanal hot chocolate and cosy indoor seating just steps from the ice, plus seasonal treats on site.
Discounted sessions of 45 to 50 minutes are offered to primary, secondary and TY groups, with free safety equipment and first-aiders on duty. Minimum charge is €700 for 50 students in November and January and €750 in December, booked 22 days ahead.
Group rates start at 15 skaters and run to 200-plus, with private rink hire, festive catering, food-and-drink partnerships with market vendors and invoice payment available for offices, sports clubs and societies.
The rink is wheelchair accessible for both manual and powered chairs, and visitors with additional needs can bring one carer free by showing a valid FCI Membership Card, purchased in person on arrival. ASD-friendly sessions are announced on social media.
Load the interactive map to explore this place location.
