Contemporary art gallery Firstsite, clad in golden copper and aluminium, is cheering up Essex with an outdoor ice-skating rink now open until 23 December 2020. Groups of up to six can skate for 45 mins on the temporary rink. If you’re like me and fall over a lot, you might want to slink off and refuel at the festive pop-up bar and snack stalls or browse the handmade Christmas gifts.

Skates are provided, specially designed for the synthetic rink, and are included in the cost: adults £12, under 14s £6. Book by calling 01206 713 700; lines open 9am – 9pm daily or fill in the online form where you’ll also find Covid-related safety measures in place and general guidelines.

Until the rules change, the gallery continues to run a variety of online events, films and features including Super Black festival, celebrating black African and Caribbean history and culture and Art is Where the Home is, a free-to-download, online activity pack.

 * Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, Essex.