Skiing in England is made possible thanks to the hard work of some very dedicated volunteers, who run the ski clubs and maintain the hills. Most ski areas require you to join the ski club in order to ski, but membership is very reasonably priced. The lift infrastructure might be outdated and the conditions variable, but on good days, skiing at one of England’s own ski resorts is an unforgettable experience and one for the bucket list. Make sure to check conditions and opening times before making the trek, and bring a shovel to dig yourself a parking spot
The Lake District Ski Club – Raise ski area has the distinction of being nestled among some of the highest peaks in England, meaning it enjoys some of the country’s highest vertical drop. Founded in 1936, the ski area today features around ten ungroomed pistes that vary according to snow conditions. Additionally, ski touring enthusiasts will find some decent off-piste terrain in the surrounding area. Raise is situated near the former mining town of Glenridding.
With origins in the British Norwegian Ski Club founded back in the 1800’s, Allenheads Ski Resort can boast a rich history culminating in the establishment of a permanent ski area in the 1960’s. The ski area is located just outside Allenheads in the North Pennines, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Manchester, and has several semi-permanent rope tows on slopes that enjoy relatively decent snow conditions.
The Weardale Ski Club near Weardale runs a small ski area in the North Pennines with some of the longest slopes in England, depending on snow conditions. Two permanent rope tows give access to terrain that’s more challenging than other English ski areas, with natural snow park features and no shortage of off-piste terrain. This ski area is not very well suited to beginners, who will be better off at the nearby Silksworth dry slopes.
The ski area at Another World is an offshoot of the eponymous entertainment facility, but it’s worthy of a mention in its own right. Located near Halifax, it’s the site of England’s first outdoor rope tow and today it boasts several rope tows, a boardercross course, a dedicated nursery slope and even floodlit slopes for night skiing. Unlike other English ski resorts, Another World also has a heated chalet with refreshments where skiers and snowboarders can shelter from the elements.
Located in the North Pennines, Yad Moss has seen a series of renovations in recent years and now boasts top-notch piste bashers as well as the longest button tow in England. For the most part, slopes are broad and best-suited to intermediate skiers. Yad Moss is just a ten-minute drive from Alston, the highest market town in England, with stunning views over the fields which have earned it the distinction of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Born and raised in the ski paradise of Vancouver, Canada, I learned to ski before I can remember, balancing precariously on my parents’ skis as they sailed down the hill. I started snowboarding in my teens and am now delighted to be exploring everything Europe’s ski scene has to offer!
