//East

//East

Plymouth Ski Centre

Commanding an impressive position above the Plym valley, Plymouth Snowsports Centre is the premier snowsports destination for Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.

As the home of the longest artificial slope in the South West, this facility is a year-round hub for both recreational skiers and those seeking a thrill.

The centre is famous for its Permasnow surface, which is designed to mimic the friction and “edge-hold” of real snow more closely than traditional matting.

Whether you are looking for professional racing development, a family day out on the 650m toboggan run, or a high-speed descent on the “Viper Drop,” Plymouth provides a comprehensive alpine experience.

Beyond the slopes, the centre operates as a versatile venue for weddings and corporate events, supported by the Alpine Bar & Kitchen which offers panoramic views of the valley and the River Plym.

It is an ideal spot for improving technique before heading to the mountains or simply enjoying outdoor family fun.

KEY INFORMATION

GETTING THERE

The centre is conveniently located at Marsh Mills, just off the A38, making it highly accessible for visitors traveling across the West Country. It is approximately a 10-minute drive from Plymouth city centre and offers a large free car park for all guests.

SLOPE DETAILS

The facility offers 0.3 km of technical runs with a total lift capacity of 1,940 passengers per hour.

  • Main Slope: 140m (0.1 km), An intermediate/advanced run featuring the technical Permasnow surface.
  • Intermediate Slope: 50m, Designed for those transitioning from the nursery area to steeper terrain.
  • Nursery Slope (Easy): 0.2 km, A dedicated gentle zone for Levels 1–4.
  • Features: Night skiing is offered throughout the winter season.

LIFTS

  • 2 x J-Bar/Platter Lifts: Main lifts serving the intermediate and advanced runs.
  • 1 x Rope Tow: A low-rope baby lift specifically for the nursery area to aid beginners.

SNOW / SURFACE

The centre features Permasnow, a high-performance artificial surface. Unlike older diamond-pattern matting, Permasnow is designed to be softer and more responsive, allowing for tighter turns and a smoother glide that feels remarkably similar to groomed mountain snow.

FEATURES & FACILITIES

On-Slope

  • Toboggan Run: A massive 650m twisting track, one of the longest in the UK.
  • Viper Drop: An exhilarating, high-speed tube slide for adrenaline seekers.
  • Snow-Tubing: Dedicated lanes for inflatable ring fun.
  • Racing Club: Local clubs meet regularly for slalom and technical training.

Off-Slope (Alpine Bar & Kitchen)

  • The Restaurant: One of the few in the South West serving a true Alpine Fondue.
  • The Bar: Fully licensed with panoramic views over the River Plym and Valley.
  • Functions: Specialized in 18th and 21st Birthday parties, Christmas parties, and Weddings for up to 140 guests.

OPENING TIMES (SUMMER 2026)

Slope Activities

  • Mon – Fri: 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Sat – Sun: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
  • (Winter Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily)

Alpine Bar (Drinks Only)

  • Term Time: Thu & Fri (5pm – 9pm), Sat & Sun (10am – 5pm)
  • School Holidays: Mon-Wed (10am-5pm), Thu-Fri (10am-9pm), Sat-Sun (10am-5pm)

Alpine Restaurant (Food)

  • Term Time: Sat & Sun (11am – 4pm)
  • School Holidays: Mon – Sun (11am – 4pm)

2026 PRICE LIST

Prices include equipment hire (skis/boots/helmets).

Session / Lesson Type Adult (16+) Junior (8-15) Tots (4-7)
Level 1 (60 mins) £39.00 £30.00 £22.50 (45m)
Levels 2-7 (90 mins) £50.00 £38.00 £26.00 (Lv 5)
3 x 90 min Lesson Deal £135.00 £99.00 —
4 x Group Lesson Deal £169.00 £124.00 —
5 x 45 min Tots Deal — — £97.50
Private Lesson (1hr) From £55.00 — —


Open Practice: Available for experienced skiers (Level 4+ competency) to hone skills without an instructor.

LESSONS & COURSES

Plymouth uses a structured 7-Level system to track progress:

  • Level 1 (Developing Snowplough): Focuses on the Snowplough glide and brake to control speed and stop on the nursery slope.
  • Tots Group Lessons: Fun-based learning for ages 4–7.
  • Adult & Junior Group: Flexible learning for ages 8+ to progress through technical levels at your own pace.
  • Private Tuition: Tailored one-to-one coaching for rapid progress.
  • Snowboarding: Available for children from age 9 and up.

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

  • Booking: Pre-booking is highly recommended online via jnlplymouth.co.uk.
  • Competency: To use the main slope for open practice, you must be able to link turns, control speed, and use the tow lift safely.
  • Clothing: You must wear long sleeves, long trousers, and gloves. Waterproof jackets are advised if the weather is inclement.

FAQs

What is the minimum age for skiing/snowboarding?
Children can start skiing at age 4. Snowboarding lessons are available for children from age 9 and up.

Do I need to wear a helmet?
Helmets are mandatory for everyone aged 16 and under. They are also required for any adult participating in freestyle sessions or race training.

Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, but the centre recommends using their rental kit (included in price) because dry slopes increase wear and tear on your gear.

Can I teach my family and friends?
No. Only the official snowsports school instructors are permitted to teach on the slopes to ensure safety and consistent standards.

What is the “Viper Drop”?
It is a high-speed, exhilarating tube slide located alongside the toboggan run for those seeking an extra adrenaline rush.

COMPARISON LINE

Compared to other dry slopes in the South West, Plymouth offers a significantly longer run and a more diverse range of gravity attractions, making it more of an “alpine activity park” than a standard ski hill.

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LAST UPDATED: May 8, 2026