Over the past decade Ice rinks have become an increasingly popular way of welcoming in the Festive Season in London. Complete with twinkling Christmas lights, huge Christmas towering trees, ice bars, Club Nights, and even après-ski. There are even Penguin Clubs for the children and skate schools for the adults! To help you decide which one to go to this year, we’ve put together a quick rundown guide on the top ice skating rinks in London and surrounding areas this season.
Skate at Somerset House with Moët & Chandon
Arguably the most famous ice rink in London, the Somerset House rink is the perfect location for anyone in central London, providing unrivalled skating, contemporary music, the perfect gift selection from Hotel Chocolat, and delicious food and drink. The magnificent ice rink, now with bigger skate space, transforms the neoclassical courtyard into the essential winter destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree, with specially curated decorations from Moët & Chandon, providing perfect picture moments.
From skating lessons with Skate School, to the ultimate nightlife sets from trailblazing DJs on rink-side decks at Skate Lates with UNIQLO, there is something for everyone across the Skate season. Gourmet dining also returns at Chalet Suisse by Jimmy Garcia, providing the perfect post-skate treat at the pop-up alpine restaurant. For the ultimate rink-side seat, enjoy champagne and cocktails in the Skate Lounge by Moët & Chandon.
Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA (nearest tubes are Temple or Covent Garden)
Open from 16 Nov 2022 – 15 Jan 2023
Adult tickets from £10 – £22 + one-off transaction fee per order
Book online here
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
This is one for those city workers needing a break from the desk. Head down to Canada Square Park for a quick skating session on your lunch break before running back to the desk. No one will ever know you’ve been acting like a child for the past hour! Skate beneath Canary Wharf’s twinkling skyline and treat yourself to one of London’s most captivating winter experiences as Ice Rink Canary Wharf returns for 2022.
On Saturday, 22 October, they open their doors to the public for 18 magical weeks; this year promises to be the most exciting year yet, and there’s no chance of rain cancelling play with our magnificent roof, lit up by the glow of over 1,000 sparkling fairy lights, so come rain or shine, the British weather won’t stop this year’s fun winter day out.
Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AB (nearest tube is Canary Wharf)
Open from 22nd October 2022 – 25th February 2023
Adults from £17.95
Book online here
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
The Hyde Park ice rink is brilliant for children and those wanting a go on the fair ground rides in Winter Wonderland. Warm up afterwards with a beer or hot chocolate in the German market. Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink. Trade in your shoes for skates and enjoy the fan-favourite attraction, set around the charming Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park.
Set under a canopy of twinkly lights and built around the iconic Victorian bandstand, you can hit the ice from 10:00am to 10:00pm daily. Open to all ages, this ice-skating rink is the perfect festive activity to kick off your Winter Wonderland experience for first dates, play dates and best mates.
Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH (nearest tube is Marble Arch or Hyde Park Corner)
Open from 18 November 2022 and 2 January 2023
Adults from £10.50
Book online here
Westfield London Ice Skating Rink
The best choice for those wanting to be close to the shops for a Christmas shopping trip after your skating session. The brand new 1,000m² ice rink will be the perfect festive destination for friends, families, fitness or a day out.
Located on Westfield Square, the ice rink made of real ice will boast an impressive Insta-worthy setting, with Europe’s tallest Christmas tree to feature on an ice rink, measuring almost 65ft positioned in the middle of the rink, featuring spectacular illuminations and providing skaters the ultimate festive experience.
Ariel Way, London, W12 7GF (nearest tubes are Shepherd’s Bush, Wood Lane or White City)
Open 19th November 2022 – 3rd January 2023
Adults from £10.00
Book online here
Hampton Court Ice Rink
The Hampton Court Ice Rink is perfect for history and architect lovers who want to skate amongst one of the most beautiful and historically significant palaces in the country. Wrap up warm, get together with your friends or family and take in the magnificent views of Hampton Court Palace, as you glide around the stunning outdoor ice rink. Skate under the stars with your loved ones or make magical memories on a day out with the kids.
Located in front of the spectacular palace, the stunning ice rink offers something for everyone, from novices to ice skating experts. Enjoy a daytime skate, followed by a visit to the palace, or soak in the ambience of an evening session, when the historic palace is bathed in multi-coloured lights.
Hampton Court, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Open from 17th November 2022 – 8th January 2023 excluding Christmas Day
Adults from £11.50
Book online here
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Louise Walker is AGLAIA’s Editor in charge of all content creation and management. She splits her time between London and Miami, and can always be found at a swanky hotel bar sipping on a Negroni. Contact her for any questions or if you would like to become an AGLAIA Contributor: hello@aglaiamagazine.com
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