Artificial Ski Slopes

You've bought the kit; you've booked your holiday - so what next? 

There is no doubt that spending a few hours getting acquainted with the basics of skiing or boarding before you leave will give you a head start for when you finally hit the slopes!  While there's still nothing quite like the 'real thing', here in the UK we have a variety of locations offering some serious slope time for beginners, improvers and freestylers alike!  Gone are the days of the stereotypical plastic dry ski slope - artificial slopes now range from high-tech, lubricated surfaces made from plastic bristles (a bit like fake grass used in garden centres) to synthetic 'real snow' in indoor complexes.  Most ski slopes have racing clubs and there is even a UK National Dry Slope Championship.

If you're a complete beginner it's well worth investing in a couple of lessons before you go and there are often 'pre-holiday taster packages' on offer to teach you basic technique, snow sports etiquette or just give you a little confidence for day one of your holiday.  All locations have facilities to hire equipment, and often sell or hire clothing as well - just make sure you take thick socks and a pair of good gloves along with you.  Session costs will vary depending on the size of the facilities but many are also open in the evenings, allowing you to pop down after work for a quick fix!  Check out local listings for artificial dry slopes, or visit the new indoor 'real snow facilities - The Chill Factore in Manchester, The Snowdome, Tamworth, or the Xscape facilities in Castleford, Milton Keynes and Glasgow.

For more tips and advice on learning to ski: Teaching yourself to ski | Ski clinics | Group ski lessons | Private ski lessons