Ice skating in Romford

Romford Ice Arena on Rom Valley Way was the town's rink for 26 years. It closed in 2013, and since 2018 Romford has skated at Sapphire Ice & Leisure in the town centre. This independent guide covers where to skate now, how to learn, where to watch the Romford Raiders, the other rinks within reach, and the story of the old arena.

Where to skate now The old Ice Arena First time on ice

Looking for the rink itself?

This is not the official website of any ice rink. Romford Ice Arena closed in April 2013. Public skating in Romford today is at Sapphire Ice & Leisure, run by Everyone Active: book sessions, lessons and parties on the official Sapphire Ice & Leisure page.

1987

Romford Ice Arena opens

2013

The arena closes

2018

Sapphire opens

56 × 26 m

The Sapphire ice pad

Skate in Romford

Sapphire Ice & Leisure

The town-centre rink that replaced the Ice Arena: what is there and how to book.

Public skating

Session types, skate hire, booking and what a first session is like.

Lessons

Skate UK courses, figure skating, hockey and adult beginners.

Birthday parties

What rink parties include, the right age and how to plan one.

Ice hockey

The Romford Raiders, the Buccaneers and the junior game.

Other rinks nearby

Lee Valley, Chelmsford, Streatham, and what Basildon skaters do.

Romford's rink history

Romford Ice Arena, 1987–2013
The Rom Valley Way rink: public skating, discos, figure skating and the Raiders.
Why the arena closed
April 2013, five years without a rink, and the new centre.
The Romford Raiders story
From a 9–6 win over Oxford in 1987 to the NIHL National League.
How an ice rink works
Freezing, painting the lines and the resurfacer between sessions.

New to skating?

First time on the ice
Lacing, standing, gliding, stopping and falling safely.
Beginner's FAQ
Gloves? Age? How tight? Short, straight answers.
What to wear
Layers, socks and what to leave at home.
Buying your first skates
When it is worth it, how they should fit and what to spend.
Kit for children
Adjustable skates, helmets and gloves that last.

Independent guide. This site is not connected with Sapphire Ice & Leisure, Everyone Active, the London Borough of Havering, the Romford Raiders or any other rink or club. It takes no bookings and sells nothing. Session times and prices change often, so check them on the operator's own website before you go.