Glide into the festive season with a trip around the ice. The arrival of the seasonal ice rinks is something Londoners look forward to each Christmas – and, with a selection of different backdrops, from the stately surroundings of Somerset House to the twinkling skyline of London, there’s a vibe to suit all tastes. So, what are you waiting for? Get your skates on!
Skate at Somerset House
One of London’s most popular ice rinks returns in 2019, once again in partnership with Fortnum & Mason (grocer to the Queen, don’t you know). Skaters can zoom around the rink between 10 am – 10.45 pm whilst admiring the glorious setting of Somerset House and the breath-taking 40 ft Christmas tree, before heading to Fortnum’s Lodge for mulled wine, chocolate fondue or even champagne.
Skate at Somerset House runs until 12th January. Tickets available from £11.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
As if there wasn’t already enough to do at the Natural History Museum, during winter the famous institution plays host to one of London’s most fabulous ice rinks. The rink itself is impressive, with a thirty-foot Christmas tree to gaze at as you glide by; but there are also a range of special events. On Thursday evenings, for example, there will be a series of free concerts – ‘Acoustic Lates’ – put on by Ticketmaster. In addition, there are skating lessons for children and special sessions for wheelchair users.
The Natural History Museum Ice Rink runs until 12th January. Tickets available from £12.65.
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is a special seasonal treat: packed with fairground rides and a Christmas market, the ice rink is the cherry on top. The largest open-air ice rink in the UK, Hyde Park’s skate sessions take place by a converted Victorian bandstand with an atmospheric canopy of lights twinkling overhead – simply magical. If you’re in the party mood afterwards, there’s plenty to do and see: there’s even a chance to do karaoke at one of the dedicated hüttes!
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park runs until 5th January. Tickets available from £9.50.
Hampton Court
Okay, so it’s not technically in London (Hampton Court is on the outskirts of Kingston upon Thames, and a short train ride from Central London), but no list of local ice rinks would be complete without a quick mention of this 500-year-old Tudor palace. Once the home of Henry VIII, Hampton Court Palace is now a wonderful place to explore – at any time of year. If you’re in the mood to skate, during the day the ice rink is great for families, whereas by night it takes on a party mood thanks to an abundance of coloured lights. There’s a well-stocked ice bar and café nearby, too.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink runs until 5th January. Tickets available from £15.00.
Queen’s House Ice Rink
What could be better than skating at the Queen’s house? And whilst we don’t actually mean Buckingham Palace, this brand-new ice rink, which is located within the gorgeous surrounds of Royal Museums Greenwich, is still pretty impressive. Set within a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Queen’s House Ice Rink offers stunning views of the River Thames and Greenwich Royal Parks: the perfect distraction whilst you attempt to master your ice skates!
The Queen’s House Ice Rink runs until 12th January. Tickets are available from £13.50.
