New Wheel of Light gondola makes city's iconic attraction accessible

Introduced for the event’s opening, the specially designed carriage is being used for the first time in Leeds as the 33-metre-tall Wheel of Light, a favourite at Ice Cube for nearly a decade, continues to delight crowds with panoramic views of the city skyline, particularly when illuminated after dark.

The new gondola, delivered through a collaboration between International Funfairs, Leeds City Council, and wheel owner John Noyce, can accommodate one wheelchair user and two accompanying guests.

Designed to be accessible for most wheelchairs, it provides a 1m x 1.3m platform and supports a maximum weight of 450kg per pod.

Its addition fulfils a long-standing accessibility request from the council, ensuring that one of the city’s most popular festive attractions can be enjoyed by even more residents and visitors.

Roger Tuby of International Funfairs said: “Creating a welcoming and accessible experience for everyone is a key priority for us. We’re delighted to debut this new gondola in Leeds and thrilled to see guests already benefiting from it.”

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “Christmas is a magical time in Leeds, with so many people coming together to enjoy our incredible events programme each and every year.

“It’s wonderful to hear that this year, our attractions will be more accessible than ever over what will be a memorable festive season.”

The commitment to accessibility extends across Ice Cube at Christmas. Another key attraction, the long-established outdoor covered ice rink on Millennium Square, is fully accessible to wheelchair users and other disabled visitors.

They are welcome at all public skating sessions, with dedicated accessible sessions every Thursday at 10:15am providing a calmer environment for those who may prefer extra space or support on the ice.

The Wheel of Light and ice rink are joined by a host of Christmas market stalls and festive rides across Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street, creating a vibrant and bustling festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

Ice Cube at Christmas runs until December 31 (except on Christmas Day and Boxing Day), and runs alongside Leeds Christmas Market, which takes over City Square until Sunday 21 December 2025. Further information can be found on the Visit Leeds website. #LeedsChristmas

For further event and attraction details and ice rink booking information including skating session times please visit: www.icecubeleeds.co.uk.

ENDS