The Ice Factor York Review
The Ice Factor
York
Reviewed by Erica Bourn
We had one very excited 5 year old yesterday on his way to this year’s York Ice Factor at Yorkshires Winter Wonderland. Since 2010 the rink has been situated at McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, when it relocated for its seasonal appearance from its old venue outside the Castle Museum in central York. I was slightly hesitant that it may have lost some of its 'magic' in arguably less picturesque surroundings, however I need not have worried, with the sites theatrical transformation and the ample free parking, on balance this is a better location for the attraction.
The ice rink is the centre piece of Yorkshires own Winter Wonderland, encompassing a traditional fun fair with dodgems, helter-skelter, children’s rides and games stalls. Santa was also in residence at his on-site Grotto, all adding to the festive magic. The 900sqm real ice rink is the largest in the North of England, sweeps around a giant 30ft-high Christmas tree in the centre of the rink and is bordered by an illuminated forest with log cabins and reindeer.
We arrived about 30 minutes prior to our pre-booked session eager to hit the ice, (figuratively, not literally we hoped!) You can pay on arrival but it can get busy so best to book if you are able to avoid disappointment. A cloakroom is on hand to deposit bags if you haven't got any willing spectators on hand.
The skate fitting marquee is large and well organised, with helpful staff who are more than willing to assist with boot fitting if people are unsure. All equipment was in very good, clean condition and Penguins also available here for the younger visitors, (serve the purpose of stabilisers for the ice, also incredibly cute). Of course, like any slightly cocky 5 year old, my son had visions of whizzing around the ice like a pro, and insisted that he wouldn't need one. A comedy act circuit around the ice accompanied by his dad changed his mind… at least until he found his ice legs.
Prior to each session, the ice is swept and carefully inspected by the Ice Marshall'sto remove any debris which may have been dropped. The team of qualified marshalsalso ensure no dangerous behaviour, are willing to lend a hand and their expertise to assist those struggling and provide first aid support for any little accidents.
As we also had our 6 month old twins with us, regrettably I could not join them on the ice, (she breathes a sigh of relief as not the steadiest on her feet at the best of times). I headed to the hospitality of the cosy Ice Bar and Cafe, which has full views on to the ice. Unprompted, staff held the door open to assist our entrance with my sizable double buggy. Tables were set out with sufficient distance between them to allow easy parking of said buggy and there were other notable touches too such as a small play area for younger visitors equipped with toys and books.
The whole atmosphere was lovely, with Christmas songs by the old crooners being played at just the right level. An array of hot and cold drinks were available, including mulled wine and hot chocolate which seemed to be the drinks of choice. Range of hot snacks such as chips and hot dogs were also available, as well as sumptuous looking cupcakes and mince pies for those with a sweeter tooth. The prices were pleasingly not too ridiculous, for example £2.50 for a hot chocolate complete with whipped cream and mini marshmallows, and £1.50 for a portion of chips. The good customer service continued here too, with the friendly bar staff offering to help me bring the drinks over to the table. There were also other refreshment options in the Christmas market area if you preferred.
It is fair to say that my son was no Christopher Dean, and the hour long session was cut short after a spectacular fall resulted in fat lip, (maybe not too good a look for his school nativity later in the week). The yummy hot chocolate did help to dry the tears though, and a thoroughly fun time was had by all. Hasn't put him off however and he is already talking about getting mummy onto the ice next year….
Day was rounded off by a jaunt around the shops, (not all 160 of them obviously). Well, it would be rude not to!
Our overall rating: 5/5 
The Ice Factor is open from 9:30am until 9.15pm from Saturday 24 November 2012 until 6 January 2013, and is conveniently located on the A64/A19 interchange. Tickets for a one-hour session cost £9.75 for adults and £8.75 for children and concessions. Discounts apply for groups of 20 or more and special party packages are available. Booking is advisable to avoid disappointment and can be easily done at www.theicefactor.co.uk.