Real ice rink confirmed for Bay of Lights 2025

Torbay Council has confirmed that this year’s Bay of Lights will feature a real ice rink for the first time in years.

The rink, measuring 39m x 12m, will be set up in Abbey Park, Torquay, as part of the winter festival which runs from 28 November to 2 January. It will open to the public on Saturday 6 December and operate daily until Friday 2 January 2026, with hourly sessions for up to 80 skaters.

The addition marks the biggest change to the event since it launched in 2022. Last year, the Bay of Lights brought a 37% increase in footfall across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, according to the council.

Councillor Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events, said: “We’re delighted to once again be inviting everyone to come and experience the excitement of the Bay of Lights. There’s a wonderful array of activities planned, and I’m thrilled by the addition of the ice rink which will no doubt bring some extra festive magic to the event this year.”

The Bay of Lights will again feature the 1.5-mile Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront, the Alive with Light show at Torre Abbey, Christmas markets, and events in Paignton and Brixham including the annual Lanterns, Lights and Luminations.

Read next: Everything you need to know about Bay of Lights 2025