Strap on your skates because there are plenty of places to get gliding this winter! From the riverside to rooftops, we’ve tracked down London’s best ice skating rinks.
SOMERSET HOUSE
Hailed as one of the capital’s favourite winter experiences, the neoclassical courtyard at Somerset House has been transformed into the ultimate skating destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree covered in specially curated decorations from Moët & Chandon. Adult skate tickets range from £10 – £22 and child prices range from £7.50 – £11.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE
A frozen winter wonderland is coming to the grounds of Henry VIII’s former residence this November, with the return of the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the historic Tudor Palace, this open-air ice rink provides the perfect festive setting. Tickets for children aged 3-12 start from £13 and for anyone over 13 tickets start from £17.50.
WINTER WONDERLAND
There’s room for everyone at Winter Wonderland, where you’ll find the UK’s largest open-air ice rink. Set around Hyde Park’s charming Victorian bandstand, this skating experience is perfect for all ages and abilities, with penguin skating aids on-hand to support any little ones. Tickets start from £10.50 for adults and £7.50 for children.
BATTERSEA POWER STATION
The recently opened Battersea Power Station is now home to Glide, London‘s only riverside ice rink, set against the backdrop of one of the capital’s most iconic buildings. Tickets start from £8 for children and £12 for anyone over 13, group and family booking options are also available.
glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk
TOBACCO DOCK
This winter, Skylight Tobacco Dock will be home to Europe’s first rooftop ice-skating rink, and it’s the perfect place to cosy up under a blanket and sip on some mulled wine once the skates are off. Sessions cost £15 per person for 45 minutes.
ALEXANDRA PALACE
Skating may be a year-round activity at Ally Pally but there’s just something special about the rink at Christmas. This year the palace will be running a special program of festive skating sessions until the 15th of January. Ticket prices vary depending on events and timings.