I found that pulling myself round the rink until I could glide helpful but be careful doing this because if you buckle and someone's behind you you're going to get hurt. Go with a load of mates. If you become a super-skater there are loads of competitions you can enter. Ally Pally is home to Haringey's ice hockey team the Greyhounds. The hockey league starts in September and carries on over the cold season.
Ice hockey is a fast and furious game and a pleasure to watch.
The toilets are cold, wet and all steel. My advise is to hold it. Also there's a special Youth Summer Explosion sponsored by this here youth rag on Friday 18 July to celebrate the end of term. Tickets are 6. Pally Skating rink activities and opening hours call 0181-365 2121.