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Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre

Situated on the edge of the scenic Cotswolds, Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre is one of the premier outdoor dry slope destinations in the UK.

Located just outside the city of Gloucester and within easy reach of Bristol and Cheltenham, this expansive facility offers a year-round alpine experience without the need for real snow.

The centre is renowned for its impressive 230-meter main slope, one of the longest in the country, providing a sustained run that is perfect for those looking to build endurance and technique.

This centre is designed for everyone, from absolute beginners taking their very first slides on the dedicated nursery slopes to advanced freestyle riders hitting the Snowflex fun park.

With specialised features like moguls and quarter pipes, it serves as a vital training ground for local racing clubs and freestyle enthusiasts alike.

Whether you are preparing for a winter holiday or looking for a consistent weekly hobby, Gloucester provides a professional, welcoming environment for all ages and skill levels to enjoy the thrill of the slopes.

KEY INFORMATION

GETTING THERE

The centre is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Gloucester city centre and is easily accessible from the M5 motorway (Junction 11A or 12). There is plenty of free on-site parking available. For those using public transport, local bus routes from Gloucester Green bus station drop passengers within walking distance of Matson Lane.

SLOPE DETAILS

Gloucester boasts a versatile layout tailored for all progression stages:

  • Main Slopes: A 230-meter primary run and a secondary 150-meter slope.
  • Nursery Slopes: Two 40-meter slopes dedicated to beginners and lessons.
  • Freestyle Area: A dedicated Snowflex fun park featuring three quarter pipes.
  • Terrain: Includes a permanent mogul run for advanced technical training.
  • Skill Level: Accommodates absolute beginners through to elite racers and freestyle pros.

LIFTS

  • 3 x Poma Tow Lifts
  • 1 x Briton Drag Lift

SNOW / SURFACE

The main slopes use Dendix, the classic diamond-patterned “brush” surface used globally for dry slope racing. The freestyle fun park utilises Snowflex, a softer, more forgiving synthetic material designed to cushion impacts during jumps and tricks.

FEATURES & FACILITIES

On Slope

  • Snowflex Fun Park & Quarter Pipes
  • Mogul run
  • Racing Club & Performance Coaching
  • Tubing sessions (available for groups and parties)
  • Disabled access and adaptive skiing options

Off Slope

  • Ski Shop: On-site retail for gear, apparel, and professional servicing.
  • The Café & Bar: Overlooking the slopes, serving food and drinks.
  • Battle Hill: An outdoor laser tag activity located on-site.
  • Leisure Facilities: Proximity to a health club and golf course.

OPENING TIMES

  • Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 – 22:00
  • Thursday: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Friday: 10:00 – 22:00
  • Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00

PRICES (Last updated May 2026)

Category Session Type Price
Open Practice 1.5 Hour Session Adults from £21 / Juniors from £17
Snowcubs (Ages 4-6) 30-Minute Group Lesson £25
Polar Bears (Ages 7-9) 1-Hour Session £40
Learn to Ski (Juniors) Full Package (4 sessions / 7 hours) £180
Learn to Ski (Adults) Full Package (4 sessions / 7 hours) £210
Private Lessons 1-Hour (1:1 to 1:4 ratios) From £95 to £235

 

LESSONS & COURSES

Gloucester offers a highly structured “Ski Pack” system to take users to a recreational standard:

  • Snowcubs (Ages 3-6): 30-minute group or 45-minute private lessons. Parental help is required on the slope.
  • Polar Bears (Ages 7-9): 1-hour weekend sessions covering levels 1-3.
  • Junior & Adult Ski Packs: A 4-part course (Ski Packs 1-4) covering basics through to pressure control and pole use.
  • Crash Courses: “Learn to Ski Days” (£175) for ages 12+ offer 5 hours of intensive coaching.
  • Holiday Ski School: 2-3 day intensive camps during Gloucestershire half-term for ages 6-16.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

  • Quiet Times: Weekdays during school hours (10:00 – 15:00) offer the most space.
  • Busy Periods: Tuesday and Wednesday evenings are popular for adult ski packs and club training; weekends (especially 10:00 – 16:00) are peak times for Snowcubs and Polar Bears.

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

  • Booking Advice: All lessons and practice sessions should be booked online. For Holiday Ski Schools and After School Clubs, it is best to call the centre directly at 01452 501438.
  • Check-in: Arrive at least 15-20 minutes early. You will need to provide your height and weight to the rental desk for the correct equipment setting.
  • Waivers: Ensure all participants have signed the relevant waivers online before arrival to save time.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Gloves: Essential for hand protection (Dendix can be abrasive).
  • Full Coverage: Long sleeves and full-length trousers are mandatory. Waterproofs are recommended in wet weather.
  • Helmets: Highly recommended for everyone; compulsory for children and freestyle park users.

HOW TO BOOK

Visit the official Gloucester Ski booking portal to select your age group and lesson level. For private lessons or complex group bookings, contact the reception team via email or phone.

WHO IT’S BEST FOR

Gloucester is a top choice for serious skiers looking for a long, technical run and freestyle fans wanting a dedicated park. It is also an industry leader for children’s progression, thanks to the specialised Snowcubs and Polar Bears pathways.

FAQs

Is this slope good for beginners?
Yes. Between the dedicated nursery slopes and the multi-level Polar Bear and Ski Pack programs, beginners are exceptionally well-supported here.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Lessons, especially the popular Junior Ski Packs and weekend Snowcubs, often sell out weeks in advance.

Is equipment hire included?
Yes. All listed lesson prices include the hire of skis/snowboards, boots, and poles.

What happens if I miss a session in a “Ski Pack” course?
Progress in the Junior and Adult Ski Packs is dependent on completing each level in sequence. If you fail to attend or complete one of the lessons, you may be required to retake that specific level at an additional cost before you can progress to the next stage.

Can I bring my own equipment?
Absolutely. While hire is included in the price, you are welcome to use your own skis or snowboard. However, for safety and to protect the Dendix surface, your equipment must be in good condition, and the centre’s technicians may check your edges or wax before you head out.

COMPARISON LINE

Compared to other UK indoor centres like Snozone, Gloucester offers a much longer run and a more traditional outdoor racing atmosphere at a generally lower price point for intensive “Learn to Ski” packages.

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Last Updated: May 10, 2026