Ice ice baby

EXCITING times loom for chill seekers and thrill seekers with news just in that Liverpool is to become the most chilled place to visit this winter.

Artists Ice Box, who are behind the world renowned London Ice Sculpting Festival, are to create the UK's first ever urban ice experience - #IceFestival - at Liverpool ONE.

This isn't merely a grotto with fairy lights – it's more like the Winter Olympics, and at the centre of Chavasse Park the nation's largest ever ice slide is being constructed with two runs that are 30m long, 6m high and 4m wide.

“Experience the buzz of skimming along the slide at exhilarating pace, while taking in the whole view of the mesmerising #IceFestival.” say organisers.

Remember what your mum told you about sitting on cold things? It's time to dig those thermal knickers out.

Incorporating four ice-themed activities, #IceFestival is being billed as the UKs most ambitious group of real ice attractions in one place.

From 7 November – 13 January, visitors to Liverpool ONE can also expect a stunning ice gallery with crafted sculptures leading to a Santa’s Grotto where children will be met by enthralling crystal clear polar animals and characters in a magical forest. 

And skating, of course. Stylish skating. Organisers promise a 600m sq outdoor Alpine ice rink combining a setting that “epitomises the glamour of the urban ice experience” featuring a remarkable central feature for skaters to glide around. 

Meanwhile become a snow queen or king in the UK’s first pop-up real Ice Bar which boasts 25 tonnes of furniture made entirely of crystal clear sculpture ice – that apparently includes the bar, tables and chairs. 

Still got those thermals on? No worries if not. Entrance includes a drink that is specially selected to warm you up. 

Philip Hughes, creative head of Ice Box, said: “The Ice Box team is very excited to bring the UK’s biggest ever group of ice attractions to Liverpool. Chavasse Park in Liverpool ONE is the perfect place for this to happen, not only does it look great, but it’s a central hub for shoppers and visitors to the city to come and enjoy #IceFestival. We can’t wait to see the reaction of visitors to Liverpool. It’s sure to be the coolest winter experience around.” 

Get your skates on.