Despite attracting visitors from 50-60 miles away, for residents and families in Cheshire and the Liverpool City Region, skiing might not be the first sport that comes to mind when you think of things to do in Runcorn. But nestled in the beautiful greenery of Palacefields Park lies the Runcorn Ski Centre—a community treasure where visitors have enjoyed the thrill of dry slope skiing for over four decades.
And what it lacks in crisp mountain air, snowy landscapes and overall alpine environment it makes up for in affordability, convenience and charm – this all-year round facility welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing 362 days a year.
With 85m, 45m and 25m floodlit slopes, these 3 lift-accessible runs allow skiing at all times of the day and offers something for everyone – whether a beginner or an experienced skier – the range of lessons, activities and slopes cater for complete novices learning the basics to seasoned thrill-seekers honing techniques.
To use the slope on your own during open session, participants must be able to stop, link turns, and use the lift. But beginners can book some flexible, cost-effective and fun lessons with one of the ski school’s 5 instructors.
OFF PISTE FUN
In the post war boom of new towns, ski slopes were seen as exciting, unique recreational facilities that could attract residents to these developing urban areas as well as encouraging active, healthy lifestyle and Runcorn Ski Centre has introduced generations of families to the excitement of alpine sports right on their doorstep just like it did for Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards who first learned to ski on a dry slope near his home.
With the introduction of indoor artificial snow attraction where you can ski on ‘snow’ and the rise of low-cost flights to ski destinations, the dry ski slopes got overshadowed. However, they are rising in popularity once again! Runcorn Ski Centre is seeing a surge in demand as ski resorts worldwide are facing significant challenges due to the climate change. Rising global temperatures are affecting snowfall levels and the ski season with Tourists opting for higher altitude resorts, combine that with price hikes in flights, accommodation and ski passes, the annual ski trip is once again becoming an expensive holiday. Plus, the cost to make artificial snow is increasing as well as using higher levels of energy to power the process, the dry ski slope is proving a top choice all round. Another advantage to dry slopes is they enable more ‘runs’ during a session and allow skiers to be more controlled.
At Runcorn Ski Centre, fun and safety are at the heart of every experience. Under the guidance of trained instructors, skiers and snowboarders can learn foundational techniques or refine their skills, while younger adventurers can enjoy the exhilaration of tubing. This unique activity involves sliding down the slope in inflatable tubes—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults looking for a fun day out and maybe even inspiring future competitive athletes.
The Centre’s charm has even reached the comedy circuit, with famed Liverpudlian comedian John Bishop giving a nod to the local spot in his stand-up routines. Runcorn Ski Centre isn’t just a place for sport; it’s a source of local pride and a testament to the enduring appeal of bringing the mountains to the masses.
Runcorn Ski Centre Owner, John Doyle, said, “We’re incredibly proud to be part of the community here in Runcorn. For nearly 40 years, we’ve been providing an accessible, fun, and affordable way for families to experience skiing right in their backyard. We love seeing the smiles on people’s faces as they come down the slope, whether on skis, snowboards, or in one of our tubes—it’s something special.”
With convenient access from Liverpool and neighbouring areas, Runcorn Ski Centre is poised to become a year-round go-to destination for families, school trips, and groups seeking a wallet-friendly active day out for all ages and skill levels.
The Runcorn Ski Centre doesn’t offer online booking because they take an individual approach, so they encourage anyone interested in trying something new or simply rediscovering a Runcorn classic, to give them a call and they can help with lessons, equipment rentals, activities and a welcoming community ready to make your next outdoor adventure one to remember.
For more information, visit https://visithalton.co.uk/runcorn-ski-centre/ or to book a session call 01928 701965