Guests who take to the new ice rink at exclusive Eastwell Manor near Ashford this Christmas will be following in the footsteps of Queen Victoria.

The new outdoor ice rink, which is to be officially opened by former England and Arsenal footballer David Seaman and his Celebrity Dancing on Ice wife Frankie Poultney, next month, has been inspired by evidence that Queen Victoria used to skate there.

Reviving the tradition of ice skating at Eastwell Manor came about after old drawings were discovered, believed to show Queen Victoria skating on the frozen lake there almost 150 years ago.

She was a regular visitor there when the estate was the family home of her second son Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh.

It is the first time Eastwell Manor Champneys Spa Hotel near Ashford has opened an ice rink.

Champneys bought the resort last year and has carried out a major refurbishment of the historic grounds and house that dates back to the 1500s.

Along with the establishment of the rink in the hotel’s picturesque courtyard, reindeer will also be on site.

Champneys owner Stephen Purdew said: “We wanted to do something really special to mark our first year at Eastwell Manor. The historic building and ice rink will offer a fantastic festive experience, and we really look forward to welcoming people down.”

David Seaman and Frankie Poultney will open the rink on Monday, December 4.

Ice skating will be available at Eastwell Manor from Friday, December 1 until Tuesday, January 2, between noon and 7pm. Entry is £14.50, with under 12s £9.50.

For details visit eastwellmanor.co.uk or eastwellmanor.co.uk/christmas-at-eastwell-manor/ice-rink

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