There’s just something about the outdoors that gives off a certain je ne sais quoi. Swimming in a pool is fine, but swimming in an ocean or a river is magnificent. Running on a treadmill is fun, but running outside as the scenery changes is an adventure. The same thing applies to skiing – outdoor skiing is breathtaking with beautiful surroundings and fresh air, but not everyone can afford to travel to go skiing.
Fear not, for the UK’s indoor ski centres are beginning to grow in complexity and popularity – the larger centres now look more like full mountain ski resorts instead of straight slopes! If you’re a novice or an advanced skier, the UK’s indoor skiing slopes provide all-year, weather reliable skiing, so you can brush up on your skills in preparation for that winter holiday.
Skiing Property shares their list of the top indoor skiing centres across the UK:
The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead
The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is the biggest indoor ski facility in the UK. It’s located just to the west of north London and provides the latest in snow cannon technology. This ensures that an authentic 30-metre-wide and 160-metre-long alpine experience is created. With accreditation by the British Association of Snowsport Instructors, this is where you want to hone your skills.
Snozone, Milton Keynes & Castleford
Snozone creates about 1500 tonnes of snow each night by launching 16 cannons of cooled water into the air, which in turn breathes life into its 170-metre-long slope. Now think about how much fun you can have on that! They have a qualified team of experts on standby and ready to give specialist coaching on racing techniques, freestyle moves and also assisting those with disabilities. You can always learn something new here, whether you’re already a pro or just a beginner.
Chill Factore, Manchester
With four main areas (including a special course for tubing and snow-play), a 40-metre-long beginners’ slope and a winter wonderland for children, the Chill Factore is guaranteed to leave you spoilt for choice. Home to one of the longest real snow indoor slopes at 180 metres, Chill Factore is ideal for those with prior experience in skiing. They offer taster sessions for novices too on the 40-metre beginner slope and classes for advanced skiers. Group lessons, private tuition, snowboard development and freestyle sessions are all available.
SnowDome, Tamworth
SnowDome offers snowboarding and skiing sessions that take place on its 180-metre-long slope and its snow academy areas. It also contains an ice rink, gym and a swimming pool. Lessons are held at the SnowDome all year round. With discounts provided to all levels of skiers, they provide coaching sessions, day courses, lessons for children and even a disability ski school. So head over there with just your warm clothes and gloves – ski equipment is provided.
Snow Factor, Glasgow, Braehead
Snow Factor is another real snow indoor slope, covered in 1,700 tonnes of fresh snow. It has a separate section for beginners and offers specialist freestyle sessions on Thursday and Friday nights. It’s also home to an ice climbing wall, ice bar where live musical performances are hosted, beer hall and a Bavarian-themed restaurant.
Be inspired by skiing in Whistler.
