It may be November but from tonight you can step into a world of Christmas magic at Bluewater.

For the first time an outdoor ice skating is opening at the shopping centre, next to the lakes near the entrance for House of Fraser and the West Village.

It is covered to protect skaters from the rain, but with a chill in the air, a Christmas tree and a canopy of lights, it gives you all those festive feelings.

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There are alpine cabins to buy hot food, drinks and snacks, as well as a licensed bar.

Plus a photographer to catch your moment on the ice.

Skaters from Silver Blades in Gillingham wowed crowds yesterday, with a demonstration ahead of the public opening.

With an Alice in Wonderland meets Christmas theme, Zachary Martin, 13; Katie Evans, 11; Jodie Russell, 18; Aaron Freeman, 19; Courtney Wagon, 14; James Foyster, 13; Maya Foyster, 11, put on a sterling performance.

It came ahead of their own show based on the Lewis Carroll novel, which is running at 6pm on Wednesday, December 21, at the rink in Gillingham Business Park.

To check prices and book tickets click here.

Pupils from Bean primary school who have done well this year were also invited down to test Bluewater's ice before anyone else.

Tonight kmfm’s Andy Walker will officially open the rink from 6pm and then will DJing live there on Friday nights.

It will stay open until Monday, January 2, and tickets can be bought here for one hour sessions.

Suitable for beginners or experienced skaters, there are also skating lessons available.

Prices range from £9 - £11 and £34 for a family ticket.

Next door to the rink is The Grotto.

From Thursday, November 24, Father Christmas will be in his traditional toy workshop ready to meet good boys and girls.

Bubbles the Elf will be greeting guests at the door and guide you through the workshop - but along the way you need to help him look out for the missing keys to Santa’s door, and special guest Paddington™ Bear.

Each Grotto experience lasts about 40 minutes and children receive a luxury plush toy at the end.

It will be open until Christmas Eve, when Santa has real work to do.

Admission is £10 per child.