The best ski resorts in the UK and Europe revealed
Between November 2022 and November 2023, approximately 291,000 people participated in winter sports in England alone, proving their undeniable popularity.¹ Additionally, the winter sporting goods market generated around £803 million in 2024, further highlighting the interest in activities like skiing, skating, and snowboarding in the UK.²
While winter sports are steadily growing in the UK, several European countries are well known for their world-renowned winter sports resorts. These destinations attract seasoned enthusiasts and dedicated athletes seeking the best slopes to practice.
You may wonder where in the UK and Europe the best places are to gear up in your skiwear and base layers for these activities. The experts at Blacks have analysed data to reveal the best UK regions for winter sports, the best ski slopes in the UK, and the best ice rinks in the UK. We have also researched which country in Europe is best for winter sports and which ski resorts are must-visit destinations.
Jump to:
Scotland dominates as the UK's best region for winter sports
Europe’s Top Winter Sports Nations Revealed: Italy freezes out the competition
Scotland’s slopes reign supreme: Nevis Range tops UK ski rankings
Europe's best ski resort revealed: Les 3 Vallées, France
Scottish ice rink skates to the top spot in the UK
Prepping for your ski holiday
Methodology
Scotland dominates as the UK's best region for winter sports
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Scotland
Winter sports score: 10.00/10
The best UK region to participate in winter sports is Scotland, which has a perfect 10 out of 10 score. This high ranking should come as little surprise as Scotland is home to some of the UK’s only natural outdoor ski resorts, such as the Nevis Range, Cairngorm, and Glenshee.
Scotland also has 173 indoor and outdoor ski slopes, far surpassing the rest of the UK; the Glenshee Ski Centre has the highest number, with 38 slopes. It is also the most snow-reliable region, with an average of 21.4 days per year with snow on the ground. Lastly, it has the most ice rinks among the regions, with 16, including the Dumfries Ice Bowl and Dundee Ice Arena, which rank in our top three best ice rinks in the UK.
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South East
Winter sports score: 9.64/10
In second place is the South East of England, which scored 9.64 out of 10. The region has one of the highest number of slopes in the UK, with a total of 18, placing it within the top five among the other regions. Among those slopes are the three at Snowzone Milton Keynes, the longest of which is 175 metres.It is also the region with the second-highest number of ice rinks, at 11, including Slough Ice Arena, which has a 4.2 out of five review score on Google and is open more than 115 hours a week, where people can attend public ice skating lessons for just £10 per session.
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North West
Winter sports score: 9.10/10
The North West of England rounds out the top three regions in the UK for winter sports, with a score of 9.1 out of 10. The region benefits from an average of 11.5 days of snow on the ground and 20 slopes. One such ski slope in the region is Chill Factore in Manchester, which has the longest indoor ski slope in the UK at 180 metres in length.
Europe’s Top Winter Sports Nations Revealed: Italy freezes out the competition
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Italy
Winter sports score: 9.63/10
Italy is the top European country for winter sports, scoring 9.63 out of 10. Home to the Dolomites, Italy has a range of skiing locations, such as the Dolomiti Superski, a huge ski area with around 1,200 kilometres of slopes.
Italy ranked highly across each of the factors we looked at, finishing in the top four at the very least on each. The country has 272 ski resorts and an average test score of 2.8 out of five. Among those are Madonna di Campiglio and Alta Badia in the Dolomites, both of which have test report scores of 4.7 and 4.3, respectively. It also has an average snowboarding score of 7.2 out of 10, the joint-second highest, on par with Switzerland.
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France
Winter sports score: 9.42/10
In second place for the best European countries to partake in winter sports is France. With many of the resorts in this country straddling country borders, it is a great destination for those who might want to tackle the slopes at resorts in a few different countries in one trip.
France has the largest ski slope network in Europe, with 9,113 kilometres of slopes. The Les 3 Vallées resort, including the ski towns of Val Thorens, Les Menuires, Méribel, and Courchevel, has 600 kilometres of slopes alone. It also has the highest number of ski lifts across its many resorts, at 2,829, ensuring a high level of accessibility in world-renowned ski resorts such as Val d’lsére in Tignes, in the French Alps.
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Switzerland
Winter sports score: 9.32/10
Switzerland—a well-known destination for skiing, especially where luxury experiences are concerned—takes third place with a score of 9.32 out of 10. It is also home to one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, Zermatt, which gives skiers a view of the Matterhorn. Additionally, these higher altitude resorts tend to experience longer ski seasons as the snow sits on the surface longer. It’s also noteworthy that many of Switzerland’s ski resorts are accessible by train, often taking you right to the base of the resort.
The country ranked top for the most ski resorts in Europe, with 345. These range from the extremely luxurious resort of St. Moritz to Verbier, with its challenging off-piste terrain. Alongside Italy, it also has an average snowboarding score of 7.2 out of 10 due to many resorts having freeride terrain, such as the aforementioned Verbier and Engelberg, which has one of the highest snowfall rates in the Alps.
Scotland’s slopes reign supreme: Nevis Range tops UK ski rankings
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Nevis Range
Ski slope score: 9.86/10
Located at Ben Nevis and one of the UK’s few completely natural outdoor ski slopes, the Nevis Range resort is the UK’s number one ski slope. The Nevis Range ranked second for the slope with the longest main run, at 2,400 metres and for its number of slopes, which are 36 in total. It also has the second-highest number of ski lifts, making it one of the most accessible ski slopes in the UK. On Google, it has a review score of 4.6 out of five, for which it ranks joint-third, and despite being among the best ski slopes in the country, a lesson costs £50, falling below the average price of £54.69 across all slopes we looked at.
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Cairngorm Mountain (Cairngorm Ski Area)
Ski slope score: 9.66/10
Known for its stunning views and varied ski terrain, Cairngorm Ski Area takes second place, with a score of 9.66 out of 10. Located in the Cairngorm National Park near Aviemore, this resort has been welcoming skiers as early as the 1890s, making it one of the oldest ski areas in Scotland. The area also has the highest restaurant in the UK, The Ptarmigan Restaurant, located at the end of the mountain’s Funicular Railway. It has the longest main run slope length in the UK at around 3,000 metres. It also ranked in the top three for resorts with the most slopes, with a total of 35 and came in third for resorts with the most ski lifts at 11 total. Its Google review score of 4.6 out of 5 further solidifies it as one of the best ski slopes the UK has to offer.
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Glenshee Ski Centre
Ski slope score: 9.62/10
The Glenshee Ski Centre, located near the village of Ballater, Aberdeenshire, takes the final spot among the top three ski slopes in the UK. This is Scotland's biggest ski resort, covering four mountains and three valleys and has the infamous “tiger” run. It has one of the longest main slopes in the UK at a total length of 2,000 metres and the most lifts with 23. Out of the top three, it is also open the most hours per week at 59 hours and 30 minutes. Additionally, adult ski lessons at the resort cost as little as £35 per session, which is the cheapest of the top three resorts.
Europe's best ski resort revealed: Les 3 Vallées, France
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Les 3 Vallées – Val Thorens/Les Menuires/Méribel/Courchevel
Ski resort score: 9.74/10
The largest ski resort in the world, France’s Les 3 Vallées takes the top spot for best ski resort in Europe. This huge ski area encompasses the villages of Val Thorens, Les Menuires, Méribel, and Courchevel.
With 156 lifts ensuring seamless access to its vast terrain, this French Alps giant caters to all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to steep, high-altitude descents. Its snowboarding facilities are rated a perfect 10 out of 10, thanks to extensive freestyle parks and deep powder areas. While its average snowfall (31mm per winter month) is lower than its competitors, its high-altitude slopes ensure reliable snow cover. This, combined with a stellar test report score (4.6 out of five) and the highest overall ski resort score of 9.74 out of 10, makes Les 3 Vallées the ultimate European ski destination.
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St. Anton/St. Christoph/Stuben/Lech/Zürs/Warth/Schröcken – Ski Arlberg
Ski resort score: 9.40/10
Ski Arlberg, covering resorts like St. Anton, Lech, and Zürs, is Austria’s premier ski destination and the second-best resort in Europe. Known for its deep powder, challenging terrain, and luxury après-ski scene, it boasts 299.7 kilometres of slopes, but what truly sets it apart is its incredible snowfall (150mm per winter month)—the highest on this list. This guarantees pristine conditions for skiers and snowboarders alike. The resort’s 85 lifts efficiently connect the varied terrain, from family-friendly runs in Lech to legendary off-piste areas like Valluga. A near-perfect test report score (4.8 out of five) reflects its outstanding facilities, while its 9.40 out of 10 resort rating cements its place as one of the best in Europe.
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4 Vallées – Verbier/La Tzoumaz/Nendaz/Veysonnaz/Thyon
Ski resort score: 9.36/10
In third place is the 4 Vallées, home to Verbier, La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, and Thyon, with a ski resort score of 9.36 out of 10. A freeride mecca famous for its steep slopes, extensive backcountry, and world-class snowparks, with 412 km of runs and 68 lifts, it offers a mix of challenging descents and wide-open pistes. Snowboarders, in particular, will appreciate the resort as it has a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for snowboarding. While its average snowfall (36mm per winter month) is comparatively lower, its high-altitude slopes maintain consistent snow cover. Its prestigious off-piste areas, including the legendary Bec des Rosses—home to the Freeride World Tour—make it a top choice for advanced skiers.
Scottish ice rink skates to the top spot in the UK
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Dumfries Ice Bowl
Ice rink score: 9.87/10
Dumfries Ice Bowl takes the top spot for the best ice rink in the UK, with an outstanding 9.87 out of 10 rating. Its long opening hours of 112 per week make it one of the most available in the UK. Additionally, the pricing (£7.50 for public skating, £7.80 for lessons) falls below the averages of £14.28 and £10.09, as well as strong Google reviews (4.5 out of five from 499 reviews), both contributing to its overall score. Located in Scotland, this rink is a hub for both casual skaters and competitive ice sports, hosting ice hockey, curling, and figure skating events. Excellent facilities, alongside its free parking, make it an ideal destination for skating enthusiasts.
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Dundee Ice Arena
Ice rink score: 9.58/10
Dundee Ice Arena secures the third spot with a 9.58 out of 10 rating. It is praised for its excellent reputation (4.5 out of five from 872 Google reviews) and the skating costs (£7.50 public sessions, £8.50 lessons), which fall below the average cost. Though it operates for just 18 hours per week for public skating, due to it being home to the Dundee Stars Elite League Ice Hockey team, its strong community presence and high-quality ice surface make it a favourite for both amateur and professional skaters. Like the others, it offers free parking, adding to its appeal.
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Ice Sheffield
Ice rink score: 9.29/10
Finishing off the top three with an impressive 9.29/10 rating, we have Ice Sheffield. Offering 133 hours of operation per week, it is one of the most accessible venues for skaters. Despite having a slightly lower Google review score (4.4 out of five from 2,052 reviews) compared to the top three, it firmly remains the joint-second highest user-rated ice skating rink in the UK. While the £12.00 skating lesson fee is higher than other top-ranked rinks, it remains considerably cheaper than other options in the UK. Additionally, the £9.95 public skating session provides a great experience for casual visitors. With free parking and a reputation for hosting major skating events, Ice Sheffield is a standout venue for ice sports in Yorkshire and beyond.
Prepping for your ski holiday
Need equipment or clothing in preparation for your visit to one of our index locations? Here at Blacks, we have a huge range available - :
Ski Jackets - men’s / women’s - essential for keeping the body protected from the colder slope conditions, utilising insulation to trap warmth easily.
Salopettes/Trousers - men’s / women’s - waterproof and fitted with practical features for snowsports, these pieces are made for total lower body protection.
Ski Goggles & Helmets - men's / women's - keep the head safe from bumps/knocks and the eyes shielded from UV rays.
Ski Gloves - men's / women's - offering exceptional grip for your equipment whilst providing protective qualities from the cold.
Methodology
Section 1: UK regions for winter sports
We created a list of ski slopes in the UK using Ski Club, recording the number of slopes in each UK region.
We recorded the number of ice rinks in each UK region using iceskating.org
We took the average number of days with snow on the ground by UK region using data from Snow Chain Shop. Average snowfall (data is an average of 2013 - 2017). In the case of Scotland, as it is broken into three sub-regions, we calculated the average of those regions to record data for the whole of Scotland.
We then combined these factors into a single score and rank, using the percentrank function, to reveal the best UK regions for winter sports. The factors were weighted as follows:
-Number of slopes: 1.5
-Number of ice rinks: 1.5
-Average number of days with snow on the ground: 0.5
All data was collected on 21/01/2025.
Section 2: Best European countries for winter sports
We recorded the number of ski resorts in each European country using Ski Resort.
Note: We did not include resorts with blank pages or insufficient information. Additionally, we removed Finland, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia due to discrepancies in the data. This data was collected on 11/02/2025.
We recorded each resort's overall test report score out of five using Ski Resort and calculated the average score per country. We calculated the total number of lifts and total length of ski slopes for each country. This data was collected on 11/02/2025.
Using We Ski, we calculated the average snowboarding score for each European country. This data was collected on 28/01/2025.
We then combined these factors into a single score using the percentrank function, with each factor given equal weighting, to reveal the European countries for snowsports.
Section 3: Best UK winter sports resorts (indoor and outdoor)
Using the Ski Club's list of ski and snowboarding slopes in the UK, we collected the Google review score for each location, removing any with fewer than 50 reviews. We then took the top 40 highest-rated from these.
We collected the following data for the list of 40:
-The number of slopes.
-The main slope length.
-The number of lifts & tows.
-The weekly opening hours.
-The provision of a racing Club.
-Disabled provision.
-The adult lesson price.
-The slope material and whether the slopes were indoor or outdoor.
All data was collected using Ski Club, except the adult lesson price, sourced from each slope website. All data was sourced on 27/01/2025.
We combined these factors into a single score, using the percentrank function, to reveal the best UK ski locations. The factors were weighted as follows:
-Indoor or outdoor slope (2)
-Number of slopes (1.5)
-Google review score (1)
-Main slope length (1)
-Number of lifts and tows (1)
-Number of hours open per week (1)
-Racing club (0.5)
-Disabled accessibility (0.5)
-Slope material (2)
-Adult lesson price (0.5)
Note: the factors indoor or outdoor slope, disabled provision and provision of a racing club were scored either a 1 (for yes or outdoor) or a 0 (for no or indoor). For the slope material - we scored them 1 to 7, with 1 being the most synthetic material and 7 being the most natural.
Section 4: Best European winter sports resorts
Using the list of resorts collected in Section two, we sorted them by overall review score, taking the top 50 reviewed resorts as our seed list. For each resort, we collected the following data:
-Total slope length (km), sourced from Ski Resort (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-The number of lifts sourced from Ski Resort (data collected on 28/01/2025).
-The test report score, sourced from Ski Resort (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-The snowboarding score, sourced from We Ski (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-The average snowfall for the nearest city or airport in December, January, and February, sourced from Weatherspark (data collected on 05/02/2025).
Combining these factors, we allocated each resort a single score and rank using the percent rank function to reveal the best European ski resorts. The factors were weighted in the ranking as follows:
-Test report score (1.5)
-Number of lifts (1)
-Snowboarding score (1.5)
-Average snowfall winter (0.5)
Section 5: Best UK ice rinks
We created a list of UK ice rinks sourced from British Ice Skating. For each rink, we collected the following data:
-Google review score (data collected on 23/01/2025).
-The cost of a single skating lesson, sourced from the rink website (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-The cost of a single “free”/”public” skating session, sourced from the rink website (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-Opening hours per week, sourced from the rink website (data collected on 24/01/2025).
-Parking cost (free / paid / none), sourced from the rink website (data collected on 24/01/2025).
We then combined all factors into a single score, and ranked to reveal the best UK ice rinks, using the percentrank function. The factors within the ranking were weighted accordingly:
-Google review score (1.5)
-Cost of a single skating lesson (1)
-Cost of a "free"/"public" skating session (1)
-Hours open per week (1)
-Parking cost (0.5)
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