I've always fancied myself a bit of a rollerskater - and by that I mean I bought a pair of skates at the height of lockdown, wobble around on them every summer when we're blessed with a spot of sun, and then confine them to the back of my cupboard until the cycle repeats.
So I was thrilled to hear that Manchester city centre was getting its very own roller rink, located inside the popular drinks and dining venue Escape to Freight Island. Skating in Manchester city centre, with food and drink on hand? It all gets a big tick from me.
So I dug my skates out (the venue also can provide them, of course), donned my pastel pink protective padding, and went to see whether Good Life Skates could live up to my 80s roller rink dreams.
The rink itself is 8,000 square feet - well enough to glide (or stumble) your way around. Escape to Freight Island, located in the old Mayfield Depot next to Warehouse Project, is also a great venue choice for the venture - it feels suitably disco-esque and hidden apart from the diners in the space, while also taking advantage of the high ceilings and slightly grungy blank canvas that the Depot provides.
As a disco lover, the music was perfect for me - although I struggle enough to be graceful on my own two feet, let alone on wheels. Still, that didn't stop me having a little boogie and sing-along as I skated my way round the rink.
Crew members made their way around alongside, helping guide less confident skaters and checking on those who took a tumble. They're all experienced skaters with impressive moves - even if you aren't so keen on skating yourself, they are fascinating to watch, and help you feel safer as you go.
Once you're all skated out, the rink is equipped with a bar where you can order the likes of Vimto and Irn Bru slushies, as well as all the usual suspects. You're also able to order from the wealth of food available at Escape to Freight Island, including Voodoo Ray's Pizza, Burgerism, and Mi & Pho.
I ended the night exhausted but happy, spirits lifted by a boogie and a skate, and full of good food and good vibes. If you fancy something a bit different this summer - and out of the inevitable Manchester rain - Good Life Skates is well worth a visit!
Good Life Skates opens to the public on Thursday 2 June.
