Wintersports in Edinburgh and the Lothians

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Winter Sports in Edinburgh and the Lothians offer a range of activities for both enthusiasts and beginners. While the region may not have the big mountains typical of alpine sports, facilities such as Midlothian Snowsports Centre in Hillend provide excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities with its artificial slopes, the largest of its kind in the UK. Curling is also a popular winter pastime, with dedicated rinks in Edinburgh, offering a traditional Scottish sport. Also available at the rinks is ice hockey for all levels and ice skating whether it’s taster sessions all the way up to figure skating we have it all. The surrounding Lothians’ hills, like the Pentlands, are ideal for winter hiking and sledging when snow falls, making the region a hub for winter adventure.

 

Midlothian Snow Sports Centre Hillend

Midlothian Snowsports Centre Hillend, located just outside Edinburgh is the UK’s largest artificial ski slope. Offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing on its expansive dry slopes, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. With stunning views of the Pentland Hills, Hillend provides year-round access to snow sports, making it a fantastic spot for fun and training, just minutes from the city they offer taster classes and coaching also adaptive lessons for people with visual impairment or difficulties with balance are available. For the more advanced side, they also do race training and a special mention of their recently opened alpine rollercoaster.

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Edinburgh Ski Club

Edinburgh Ski Club is a vibrant community of snow sports enthusiasts, offering members access to ski trips, social events, and training opportunities. Open to all skill levels, the club organises trips to the Scottish Highlands and international destinations, while fostering a friendly, supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow skiers, Edinburgh Ski Club is the perfect place to connect with others who share a passion for the slopes.

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Snowsports Scotland

Snowsport Scotland is the national governing body for snow sports, promoting skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based activities across the country.

They provide training, coaching, and development opportunities for athletes of all levels, from beginners to elite competitors. With a focus on fostering a thriving snow sports community, Snowsport Scotland supports events, competitions, and grassroots programs, ensuring that Scotland remains a key destination for winter sports enthusiasts. They offer coaching programs, competitions, and events in skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related sports. Edinburgh residents can take advantage of these programs by participating in training sessions, receiving certifications for coaching, or joining competitive events, such as races and freestyle competitions, organized at venues like the Midlothian Snowsports Centre or in other areas across Scotland. Additionally, Snowsports Scotland helps facilitate access to national snow sports clubs and works to develop pathways for young athletes aiming for national or international competition. The organization also advocates for snow sports infrastructure development and provides support for anyone looking to get involved in the winter sports community, from grassroots to advanced levels

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Murrayfield Ice Rink

Murrayfield Ice Rink is a historic venue since its opening in 1952. As one of the largest indoor ice rinks in Europe at the time, it played a crucial role in the development of ice skating, ice hockey, and curling in Scotland. This iconic venue offers a range of ice sports and activities for all ages.

Known for hosting ice hockey matches, figure skating, and public skating sessions, it’s a popular destination for both casual skaters and serious athletes. With a vibrant atmosphere and opportunities for lessons and events, Murrayfield Ice Rink is a key hub for ice sports in the city, providing year-round fun and entertainment on the ice.

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Curl Edinburgh

 Curl Edinburgh is the city’s premier curling facility, offering top-class ice and a welcoming environment for curlers of all levels.

Located at Murrayfield, it hosts both social and competitive curling, with opportunities for beginners to learn the sport through lessons and leagues. With a rich tradition and a strong community, Curl Edinburgh is the perfect place to experience the excitement and strategy of curling in the heart of Scotland.

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 Murrayfield Ice Hockey Club

Local club, Murrayfield Ice Hockey Club host regular sessions at Murrayfield Ice Rink and provides a fun and friendly environment for those looking to play casually or develop their skills.

With sessions for beginners, adults, and juniors, Edinburgh’s recreational ice hockey scene is perfect for anyone eager to hit the ice and enjoy the game in a relaxed, community-driven setting.

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