Historic estate preparing for slippery festive customers

The synthetic ice rink, which has been installed near the lake and restaurant, will be opened by "Peter the Penguin" at 9.50am on Saturday.

Regular skating sessions will then be available from 10am to 5pm each day until Monday, January 3.

Trevor Pressley, visitor services manager at Clumber Park, said: "Following on from the success of last year, we are delighted to once again give our visitors the opportunity to enjoy some open-air ice skating.

"This year we've got a larger rink and we've changed the location to give skaters spectacular views of the gardens and lake."

Christmas attractions at Clumber Park also include decorations, seasonal food in the restaurant and a variety of gifts on sale. From Saturday, there will be 11 ice skating sessions each day, each lasting 30 minutes.

Each session will cost 4.50 for adults and 3.50 for children aged under 16, with skate hire included in the price.

Visitors can also bring their own ice skates, as long as they don't have toe picks.

A spokesman for Clumber Park added: "Booking is advisable, but not essential. Advance bookings can be made by calling 01909 544917.

"The shop and restaurant will also be open until 5pm each evening. The ice rink is open air, so please come dressed accordingly.

"Skating will go ahead even if it rains."