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Chill Factore begins a new era as The Snow Centre in Trafford

Chill Factore begins a new era as The Snow Centre in Trafford
Illustrative image: Pexels

For years, Chill Factore has been the place where Greater Manchester learned to ski. In 2025 the indoor snow venue at Trafford City began a new chapter, with the announcement in August that it would be renamed The Snow Centre Manchester.

The change brings the Manchester site under one identity with its sister venue in Hemel Hempstead. Snow Centres Ltd had acquired the whole Manchester complex, including the ski slope, in a deal that closed in March 2021, and the shared name now makes that family connection clear.

Managing director Ian Brown said the move was more than a name change for Chill Factore and a logo refresh for Hemel. The new look draws on alpine imagery, and new signage was planned for the Manchester building so that it can be seen from the M60.

What makes the venue special has not changed. It has two indoor real snow slopes: a 180-metre main slope, the longest indoor slope in the UK, and a 40-metre lesson slope where beginners can take their first turns in a controlled setting.

There is more to it than skiing and snowboarding. A designated fun zone gives families space for sledging and snow play, making it a popular choice for children who simply want to enjoy real snow, whatever the weather is doing outside.

Being indoors is a big part of the appeal. Skiers can practise all year round, and many people use the slopes to build confidence before a winter holiday or to keep their skills sharp between trips to the mountains.

The venue also brings the snow sports community together. In October 2025 it hosted the second Northern Snow Show over two days, a free event that gave visitors the chance to explore the world of winter sports.

Getting there is straightforward. The centre sits next door to the Trafford Centre, and the Trafford Park Metrolink stop is close by, so a day on the snow does not need to involve the car.

Lessons, slope sessions and snow play can be booked online through the venue's website. Booking ahead is wise, especially during school holidays.