Northampton's festive ice rink attracts over 55,000 visitors to Market Square
Seasonal activities boosted local businesses and enhanced the town centre experience
More than 55,000 people visited Northampton’s Market Square throughout December to enjoy a festive ice rink and additional Christmas activities, according to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC).
The programme, which ran from 4th December to 4th January, included events such as Carols on the Square, Christmas Jumper Day, and Santa on Ice. The activities attracted families, students, and people with disabilities, creating a significant boost for local businesses.
Footfall in Northampton’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre increased by 19.3% compared to the previous year, with ticket analysis indicating visitors travelled from cities across the UK, including London, Birmingham, and Glasgow.
The ice rink, measuring 14m x 22m and designed by the team behind ITV’s Dancing on Ice, marked the first of its scale for West Northamptonshire. It was funded by partnerships and sponsored by organisations including Northampton Town Council, London Northwestern Railway, and the South Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan.
The rink and activities were part of WNC's wider ambition to drive footfall, support local businesses, and enhance the town centre experience. The programme received £69,252 from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Over £122,000 was generated through ticket and bar sales, ensuring the festive offering broke even without adding financial pressure on existing Council services.
Cllr James Petter, WNC’s Deputy Leader, said: “The response to the ice rink and festive activities has been fantastic, encouraging people to spend time in the town centre and support our local traders and businesses.”
Echoing the success of the event, Cllr Keith Holland-Delamere from Northampton Town Council said: “It has been wonderful to see so many people of different ages and abilities enjoying the ice rink, creating a buzz around the square for the festive season.”
The event built on recent successes in Northampton’s Market Square, including the Women’s Rugby World Cup fanzone and Northamptonshire Day celebrations. WNC plans to create more Market Square events throughout the year to further encourage local shopping and enhance Northampton’s reputation as a destination.
Feedback from visitors was largely positive, with respondents praising the festive atmosphere and inclusive activities. One guest noted: "It was great to have a large, professional ice rink in the town centre. It made the whole square look and feel really festive."
WNC will invite residents, businesses, and partners to contribute to the planning of future events to ensure the programme reflects the needs and interests of the community.