Has anybody been ice skating at Bristol zoo?

[TooTickyDoves]

Just wondering what it's like, whether it's worth the money, how crowded, what age it's best suited for....

We went on Boxing Day!

It isn't a very big rink but obviously the maximum number of people per session takes account of that. We went after dark and the lights failed 3 times which was a PITA. Most people there were teens and adults (up to age 60s) but there were 2 families with little tiny children who actually got in everyone's way (mainly because grandad on the side was getting them to pose for photos on the ice).

They do special sessions for under 6s IIRC and I would expect more children in the daytime.

We really enjoyed it

Thanks. Am considering going. If my mum was able to come and look after dd2 (2) do you think I could cope with dd1(11), ds1 (8) and ds2 (6) - none of whom have skated before...? Am I mad to attempt it?

I'm also a bit concerned that the 40 minutes includes changing into skates - can see us losing half a session here.

No the 40 minutes doesn't include changing. They ask you to get there 20 mins before your session, so you get your skates on before they open the rink for your session.

I don't think I'd want to take 3 kids by myself if none of you have done it before, but I expect your older 2 will soon find their feet and be whizzing round while you and the younger one are clinging to the side

Oh really? That's better. I have skated before btw, but not for...cripes, 15 years

Thinking of going today, to the zoo, not sure if brave enough to try ice skating.Can any one advise on value for money/ enjoyment with two daughters aged 3&5. Wondering if @Bristol would be fun? Any one been to both/ either?

The sciency bit of @Bristol has lots to do and is great fun. But be warned, it is hot in there and the vending machines are full of fruit shoots.
The animal bit (Wildwalk is it?) we didn't enjoy nearly so much. The display cases are awkwardly placed so you will constantly be lifting your 3yo up or she won't see a thing. Lots of tiny little cases with lizards and snakes and things. Somehow, it just wasn't enjoyable. We also didn't enjoy seeing a baby mouse being fed to a snake.