Young Olympic hopeful takes spin on Eden’s ice rink

Young British ice-skating star, Aísling Lessiter, was invited to be among the first to glide onto the Eden Project’s glittering ice rink, which made its much-anticipated return in time for the October half term and festive season.

Aísling, from Devon, started skating when just eight years old. Now 15, she has worked determinedly to achieve multiple national level qualifications, rising in skill level and is currently among the best young British competitive ice-skaters.  

In addition to her head coach Shelly Clarke – supported by Steve Vincent and Grant Howie – other coaches that Aísling has trained with include, nine-time Belgian Champion and Olympian Kevin van der Perren, Canadian Olympic choreographer Joey Russell, two-time Olympic silver medallist and World Champion Brian Orser and renowned international choreographer Benoit Richaud.  

Aísling’s wins include gold at the British Ice Skating Young Stars and recent wins at national competitions in Guildford and Sheffield.  

This year she advanced further, reaching Level 6 Advanced Novice, with just two further grades to go before reaching the highest standard. Aísling competes at Skate London this November and then has a series of competitions between January and June with the aim of qualifying for the British Championships in November 2026. Her sights are firmly set on progressing to ISU Grand Prix events and, ultimately, the 2030 Winter Olympics. 

Educational charity the Eden Project invited Aísling to perform her stunning bladed footwork to test its ice rink and share her love of the sport to encourage others to take part. 

Asked about her passion, Aísling said: “It was amazing to skate at Eden. I’ve trained and performed on a lot of rinks, but this one feels really special. This was one of the most memorable and exciting projects I have been part of. I hope it inspires people to take part in skating – it’s such an enjoyable way to stay active and challenge yourself.”  

Eden’s ice rink, which remains open throughout the winter season, including February half term, offers people in Cornwall and across the South West a special chance each year to try ice skating at a time when very few alternative local venues are available. Lessons, family-friendly and toddler play sessions can be booked to get started or to help build confidence and skill ensuring people of all ages and abilities can join in.  

Simon Townsend, Eden Project general manager, said: “It was wonderful to invite a rising star like Aísling to be one of the first to skate on our rink this season. Her dedication is inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what her future holds. Our ice rink is a place where people can come together, have fun, and try something new – all as part of an enriching day out.” 

As well as the ice rink, in the coming weeks the Eden Project will be transformed into a botanical winter wonderland with its most impressive Christmas light display to date. Twinkling displays will light up the gardens, with the Biomes resembling enormous baubles. 

Father Christmas and his team of Elves will be dropping in from the North Pole in Eden’s largest immersive Father Christmas experience ever. Expect enchantment, nostalgia and all the festive feels as well as the chance to meet Father Christmas himself.  

The Cornwall Christmas Fair also returns on November 19 and 20, with more than 60 stalls showcasing independent makers. Funds raised support local charities through the Cornwall Community Foundation, with almost £70,000 raised last year.

For more information and to book tickets see www.edenproject.com.