The UK’s longest indoor ski slope has finally reopened at Manchester’s Trafford Quays Leisure Village – alongside a selection of its shops and dining experiences.
Whether you’re an avid skier or simply looking for an exciting day of adventure with the kids, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Chill Factore is back in operation.
From learning how to snowboard to playing in the snow, the ice-themed venue guarantees a fun-filled day out for almost anyone – with activities available on and off the slopes.
Now Chill Factore has reopened, here’s what you need to know about the types of experiences and events happening; and how to prepare for your visit to Trafford Park.
If you’re looking to style up your snow sport wardrobe, then this is a must-visit shop at the Chill Factore.
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Although jackets and trousers are readily available to rent, this stylish alternative will leave you gracing the slopes looking like a pro. Snow + Rock commit to stocking the latest designs from the world’s biggest brands, so you know you’re in trusted hands.
Dare 2b
If you’re not just limited to looking for ski wear, then Dare 2b is the place to be.
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They also stock cycling clothing, outdoor wear and activewear to have you prepped for any possible activity; offering some funky patterns and very on-trend styles.
Subvert Boardstore
If snowboarding is becoming more of a serious passion than just a hobby, then it might be time to invest in your own board.
Conveniently positioned in the centre of the Chill Factore, this store offers a massive selection of snowboards, binding and boots, meaning you’ll definitely find something that takes your fancy.
This adorable café is a must visit if you want to get your hands on some fresh food and coffee to keep you fuelled during your visit.
From their mouth-watering all-day breakfasts to scrumptious homemade cakes and desserts, Lift Up is definitely the vegan-friendly treat you need after a day on the slopes.
Paul’s Ice Cream
If you’re not too cold after spending time in the snow, you can grab a well-earned ice cream over at Paul’s.
With a selection of 40 flavours, as well as milkshakes, waffles and other hot desserts, there’s plenty of opportunity to reward yourself after hours on the slopes.
If you want to keep it classic, the Chill Factore also has a Costa Coffee, Nando’s and Wetherspoons for you to kick back with a hot drink or beer.
If you’re after a proper challenge, why not get involved in a race?
The Turris Alpine takes place on 20 September and the NSSA Race is on the 21 September – giving you a few weeks to train up before putting your skiing skills to the test against others.
If you’re still looking to improve your technique, then Chill Factore are hosting a Race Skills event every Tuesday from 5:30pm – 9:30pm. The coaches will give you guided instruction and assistance to improve your coordination, edge, pressure and rotation, making you a skilled skier in no time.
Perhaps your preparing for a ski holiday sometime in the future? Well the Chill Factore’s Terrain Challenges event helps you get a feel for the bumps and hills that you’ll experience on a real slope. They include a variety of table tops, pipes, kickers and moguls to promise a challenging yet realistic experience.
The Chill Factore is now open on weekdays from 12pm-8pm and weekends from 10am-6pm, and you can book tickets via their website.
What's On
Sportsbet.io Tour Championship 2026: Manchester welcomes some of snooker’s best
Danny Jones
This Monday marks the start of the World Snooker Tour’s 2026 Sportsbet.io Tour Championship, which is back in Manchester once again– and there are some big names on show.
Returning to our city for a third consecutive time, this year’s Tour Championships began at 1pm, with the likes of world number one Judd Trump playing some of the opening frames against Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen, along with Barry Hawkins taking on 2026 World Open winner, Thepchaiya Un-Nooh.
These are just the first two opening fixtures in what is set to be an eventful week-long tournament that will span a total of 19 matches, concluding in the final on Sunday, 5 April.
Hosted once again over at Manchester Central, this elite field of in-form players is basically only missing Ronnie O’Sullivan, who the aforementioned Thai tour start beat in last week’s final.
Only the top 12 players from this season’s highly competitive rankings earned a place in the draw, so all pretty much all the greats and the next generation are shooting for the title.
Defending champions John Higgins – a four-time world champion – will be breaking off against Mark Williams on Tuesday, 31 March.
Meanwhile, other names on the schedule of play include World Champion Zhao Xintong, Mark Selby (who Higgins beat in Manchester last year), Shaun Murphy, Neil Robertson and Mark Allen.
Put simply, this isn’t just another big sporting event landing in our city centre, but a showcase of some of the very best talent in the discipline.
With tickets starting from just £25, these games are also some of the most affordable premium sports you can enjoy in central Manchester.
Better still, it’s also worth noting that the official Fanzone over in the foyer of the venue is open to all, even without a ticket.
There’s completely free coaching for players of all ages, interactive games, and even the chance to try a proper full-sized professional table – a perfect day out for the Easter school holidays.
The event itself is being aired on Channel 5, but if you’re interested in going along to see the action up close and personal, you can grab your seats right HERE.
Featured Images — Press shot (supplied via Manchester Central)/The Manc Group
What's On
Salford’s popular women’s running race is returning for 2026
Danny Jones
The popular women’s only five-mile race in Salford is back for another year, and it’s set to be one of the biggest yet.
Returning for its 34th iteration this spring, the 2026 edition of the Swinton Ladies Race is a mix of trail, gravel and road running.
It’s also remained a great entry-level run since it began, perfect not only for all ages and experience levels, but for those looking for a step-up in ability level and challenge with the mixed terrain.
Last May saw one of the best turnouts in the event’s history, and the Swinton Running Club founders are hoping for another big showing.
Now boasting a total of 400 places, the Swinton Ladies Race has remained a long-established cult favourite among locals over the past couple of decades.
Founded back in 1991 (then under the Worsley Woods Trail Race banner), it’s only grown in reputation but has still stayed true to its community-driven roots.
A one-lap course of lasting five miles, the course itself takes you through the aforementioned woodlands, as well as sections of trail and more defined paths.
Other notable sites featured include the Old Warke Dam, parts of the Bridgewater Canal and said Woods, which help make up a good chunk of the largest conservation area in Salford.
As they put it: “Whether you’re training for a new challenge or looking for a sociable jog in the fresh countryside air, join us and enjoy a trail race through Worsley.”
In addition to promising chip times, bespoke medals for all finishers, free parking and plenty of other little perks, it’s also just super accessible and good value-for-money.
As for the race route itself, there are drinks stations at the halfway point and finish line, first aiders on hand should anyone need help, and, of course, toilet facilities; it’s just a very well-run event all-round.
The organisers – who are teaming up with run promoters SheRACES for 2026 – do advise trail shoes where possible, especially if it’s been raining in the days leading up to the starting gun, but road trainers will still do you just fine.
Road or trail shoes are suitable for the course; we would advise trail shoes if the days leading up to the race have been extremely wet.
The price for affiliated runners is just £15, while unaffiliated participants can sign up for £17 plus a booking fee of £2 entry on the day (subject to availability). It’s also worth noting, however, that this is very much first-come, first-served. You can grab your race ticket and bib for Sunday, 3 May, right HERE.
Daisy Bradbury -
28th August 2020 
