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Christmas might be a fair few weeks away, but most of London’s festive ice rinks are already in full swing! Every Christmas, London embraces the festive season, with ice rinks in or around pretty much every main London landmark. So, choose your favourite and book your ice skating tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss out!
Battersea Power Station (10th Nov – 7th Jan)
Opening last year, Glide at Battersea Power Station is London’s first and only riverside ice rink. Featuring three interconnecting rinks with a magical 30ft Christmas tree as its centrepiece, Glide is set against the backdrop of one of the most iconic buildings in the capital. Off the ice, skaters can also enjoy vintage-style fairground rides, live entertainment, a fun photo booth and a spectacular selection of food and drink inside the Grade II* listed Power Station.
Skylight Tobacco Dock (10th Nov – 31st Dec)
Europe’s only rooftop ice rink, Skylight Tobacco Dock is the perfect spot for ice skating this winter. Enjoy spectacular views of London’s skyline as well as après-skate cocktails and mulled wine at the bar and a selection of delicious food.
Somerset House (15th Nov – 14th Jan)
Originally built as a Tudor Palace, Somerset House with Moët & Chandon is transforming itself once again into a snowy oasis. From Skating lessons to the late-night DJ series Skate Lates, there is something for everyone.
It’s clear to see why Somerset House is often thought of as London’s best ice rink, with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree and many options for eating and drinking. Make sure you stop off in the Chalet Suisse by Jimmy Garcia at the pop-up alpine restaurant for the perfect post-skate treat.
Serving indulgent roasted pork belly, Suisse fondue, Winter Swiss Mess and festive tipples including mulled wine, hot chocolate, Moët & Chandon cocktails and salted caramel espresso martinis, this is the place to be for a truly indulgent festive experience. Also, don’t forget to head over to Hotel Chocolat’s pop-ups to pick up some festive gifts.
Winter Wonderland (17th Nov – 1st Jan)
Set around a Victorian bandstand and below a canopy of twinkling fairy lights, the open-air ice rink in Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is the UK’s largest. Kick off the festivities with toe looping and flipping before following your nose as the smells of mulled wine and German sausages lead you to the huge selection of delicious food and drink. The rink is also surrounded by vintage fairground rides, roller coasters, circus shows and Christmas market stalls. Pre-book early as it gets extremely busy close to Christmas!
Canary Wharf (21st Oct – 24th Feb)
Glide beneath the towering and iconic skyscrapers of Canary Wharf in one of the most enchanting ice rinks. With no chance of rain cancelling plans, the Ice Rink Canary Wharf is set under a spectacular glass roof and lit up by over 1,000 sparkling fairy lights. After your ice skating session, head over to the Off Piste Bar for rink-side drinks and festive bites. It undoubtedly makes for the perfect wintery day out.
Hampton Court Palace (17th Nov – 7th Jan)
Looking for a regal rink? Then head to Hampton Court Palace this Christmas to skate around King Henry VIII’s 16th century palace. The fabulous outdoor ice rink offers something for everyone and makes for a magical day out with family or friends. Post-skate, why not warm up with a festive beverage and enjoy indulgent sweet or savoury treats at the café.
The Queen’s House (18th Nov – 9th Jan)
Set in the heart of Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Queen’s House Ice Rink is South London’s only outdoor ice rink. Slip and slide across the rink this festive period surrounded by impressive architecture. You’ll also enjoy spectacular views of Greenwich Park and the lights of Canary Wharf.
Fun Fact! King James I gifted the manor to his wife Anne as an apology for losing his temper. Anne had accidentally shot one of his favourite dogs while hunting…
Check out our entire range of Christmas activities here.
Will you be skating this Christmas?
Tag us in your magical skating pictures @goldentoursuk!
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