The Best Ice Skating in London

Ice Skating in London – Our Pick of the Christmas Ice Skating Rinks

As the holiday season draws near, there is no shortage of festive activities to enjoy in London.

London has an impressive selection of outdoor festive ice rinks; here is our pick of the best ice skating in London.

The Natural History Museum, South Kensington

This Christmas, in the foreground of the iconic Natural History Museum building, this impressive 1000 square metre ice rink will be open until 7 January 2018.

Thousands of fairy lights make for a magical skating experience, before a well-earned break in the Café Bar – warm up over a mulled wine, hot chocolate or one of the many festive themed refreshments.

There is also plenty on offer for children, from a junior rink for younger skaters to a beautiful fairground carousel next to the rink.

Somerset House, The Strand

The annual ice skating rink returned to the grand courtyard at Somerset House on 15 November 2017 and will continue until 14 January 2018.

New for 2017/2018 are Skate Lates, a specially curated programme of music nights throughout the season – the perfect start to your weekend.

Add a touch of glamour to your evening with several luxury skate extras on offer, including Champagne and Truffles or a Cream Tea in Fortnum’s Lodge.

Skaters can also indulge in a little late night shopping at The Christmas Arcade pop-up version of Fortnum & Mason.

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

Open from 17 November 2017 until 1 January 2018, the ice skating rink at Winter Wonderland is set around the Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights.

After your session on the ice there is no shortage of festive activities on offer with the Magical Ice Kingdom, Zippos Christmas Circus, Santa land and a giant observation wheel.

Hampton Court Palace

The ice skating rink at Hampton Court Palace is back from 24 November 2017 until 7 January 2018.

The magnificent Tudor West front of the Palace provides a stunning backdrop for the ice rink, which is illuminated after dark.

Ice Rink, Canary Wharf

The Ice Rink, located in the heart of Canary Wharf, is open from 4 November 2017 until 24 February 2018.

This ice skating venue features London’s first skate path, leading skaters under trees twinkling with fairy lights and back to the main ice rink.

Ice Skating at Tower of London

Located in the Tower’s dry moat, the Tower of London ice rink is open from 17 November 2017 until 2 January 2018 offering a grand historical setting for seasonal skating sessions.

This year, skaters can enjoy a drink by The Pie Man of Chelsea Green, will be serving a selection of delicious drinks and simple seasonal food including homemade sausage rolls, party pies, the famous Pie Man’s sausages, tasty vegetarian options and homemade cakes.