HostelBloggers

Snow Storm in Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes comes high on the list for many things, but as a destination for skiers and snowboarders? Surely not…

Well, OK, you’re probably not going to book a week’s skiing holiday in the city, but as a place to head to for a day’s snow-bound fun, it’s actually one of the best options in the UK.

The massive Xscape complex on the edge of the city center includes, among other things, a 170m purpose-built artificial slope, complete with genuine snow, a beginners’ area, and even an ice-slide. HostelBloggers gave it a bash over the weekend as a bit of a team outing, and found it to be as much fun, as, well, bombing down a slope on a couple of planks of wood…

Getting There: The train from London (Euston) only takes about 40 minutes and costs just under £15; having arrived, it’s another five minute bus ride to the Dome.

Facilities: Along with the SNO!Zone facility itself, the complex includes a bowling alley, rock climbing walls, a cinema and a bunch of assorted snow-wear shops such as Quicksilver, Rossignol and Animal.

Skiing/Boarding: The snow at SNO!Zone is genuinely impressive (or so the experienced ones amongst us claimed!). It’s soft and completely natural - not at all like the gritty ’snow-cannoned’ snow you sometimes get out on the busy open-air slopes.

A two hour pass costs £31, including equipment hire. Lessons are a little more costly - £27 for an hour, or £72 for three hours.

There are also regular ‘freestyle’ sessions where the slope is decked out with kicker and rail combinations for the more accomplished boarder.

Apres Ski: In true ‘piste’ style, SNO!Zone caters for those looking to indulge in post-exertion fun. The stylish SNO!Bar is a good place to retreat to after a few runs on the slopes (or a good place to start if you need to steady the nerves). Come Friday night, the bar turns into a real dancehouse, with a DJ spinning tunes while you ski or chat the night away. A ski pass on these nights is £35 for 4 hours (7pm - 11pm). And for those content to just prop up the bar and watch everyone else break their necks, entrance is free.

So, the verdict? SNO!Zone in Milton Keynes is a well-run place with lots going on and helpful, friendly staff. The slope is ideal for beginner or newly intermediate skiers/borders - anyone of a higher level should make sure they go during ‘freestyle’ hours to maximize their fun.

But part of the appeal is the good vibe - it’s essentially just about the ideal place to spend a few hours or so mucking around with your mates.