Ice skating is a fantastic way to embrace the Christmas spirit! It's hard to imagine anything more festive than gliding (or wobbling!) around on the ice. Whether you're a seasoned skater or prefer clinging to the edge, London offers a variety of ice rinks to enjoy during the holiday season.
Here's a guide to some of the best ice skating experiences London has to offer:
Somerset House Ice Rink
One of the most spectacular settings for a spin on the ice, Somerset House’s ice rink is opening again in its stunning courtyard. It’s also one of the poshest places to enjoy the festive season with sponsors including Whispering Angel and gourmet dining at The Chalet restaurant. You can expect fine wines, cocktails, afternoon tea, cosy winter bites and plenty of glam events. As you zoom around the rink you’ll be able to take in the stunning details of the neoclassical courtyard as well as the enormous 40ft Christmas tree. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to snap lots of festive pics as you skate!
Glide Ice Rink at Battersea Power Station
Glide Ice Rink is in a stunning spot in front of the illuminated power station on the banks of the River Thames. There are three three interconnecting rinks and a beautiful 30ft Christmas tree covered in twinkly lights. It’s the ideal experience for a festive treat in London!
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
After checking out the rides, shows, food and drink at Winter Wonderland, you simply have to pop on some skates and take to the ice! This rink is in an iconic spot, circling one of Hyde Park’s beautiful Victorian bandstands.
Read also: Winter Fun at Hamilton Ice Arena
Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around Hyde Park’s iconic Victoria bandstand. After your skate session, warm up with a gluhwein or a tasty hot chocolate at one of the German market stalls.
Here’s a summary of what you can expect at Winter Wonderland:
- Activities: Fairground rides, markets, food and drink stalls, circus shows, ice rink
- Opening Dates: Mid-November to early January (closed on 25 December)
- Admission: Free at off-peak times, £5 at standard times, £7.70 at peak times (fee refunded if you spend £25 on attractions at booking)
- Location: Hyde Park, London
Important Information:
- Ice Skating is not recommended for those aged 3 and under.
- All children aged 3-12 and under must be accompanied by a participating/skating adult aged 18 and over at all times during this attraction.
- Wheelchairs are allowed on the ice and there are ramps both in and out of the skate facility and on and off the rink.
Student Discount:
- Students can save £1 per ticket on selected attractions when you book online!
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
What could be better than wrapping up warm, gathering a group of friends for a winter treat, all while enjoying spectacular views of the historic Tudor palace. After your turn on the rink, warm up with a hot chocolate or a gluhwein.
Read also: Ice Skating in Great Neck
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
With the longest ice skating season of any of London’s seasonal experiences, Canary Wharf’s covered rink means you can enjoy a skate no matter what the weather is doing. Located right in the heart of the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, there’s an extra magic here with all of the twinkly lights. Alongside this iconic London ice skating experience is Oasis Bar & Terrace.
JW3 Ice Rink
Did you know there’s a pop-up ice rink in North West London? Head to JW3 (the Jewish Community Centre in Finchley Road) and you’ll find a covered ice rink in the centre’s Dorfman Piazza.
Ally Pally Ice Rink
While this rink is available to visit all year round, there’s a bit of festive magic at the Ally Pally rink at Christmas, making it extra special. You can book onto a special Christmas skate session or time your trip for a Christmas Club de Fromage disco.
Queens Skate and Bowl
Another option for ice skating all year round, Queens Skate and Bowl has been in this location on Queensway for a long time. I remember going as a kid! Alongside sessions on the ice rink, you can also book ice skating lessons, try curling, go bowling, play in the arcades and enjoy some naughty burgers at MEATliquor.
Price: Adults and children from £8
Read also: Ice Skating at AZ Ice Gilbert
Dates: Open all year round.
Tips for Ice Skating in London
- Pre-book your tickets: The majority of rinks recommend pre-booking to secure a slot.
- Arrive early: Arrive at the rink 20 minutes before your ice skating session.
- Dress warmly: Wear layers to keep comfortable, including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat.
- Safety first: For safety reasons, cameras and mobile phones are not allowed whilst on the ice.
Duration:
- Duration is 45 minutes.
Age restrictions:
- Anyone aged 3 - 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged 18+.
I hope this guide to London’s best ice rinks helps you choose somewhere for a festive experience.