Where to Ice Skate in London? The Best Rinks this Season
London becomes magical in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The decorations start going up on the streets and in your favourite stores, the smell of mulled wine fills the streets, and the general vibe is just pleasant.
However, if you are still feeling a bit grinchy, nothing will pick up your holiday spirits like ice skating, and luckily, London has a ton of rinks you can explore.
In this post, we will highlight some of the best ice skating rinks in London, so get your skates and prepare to have an amazing time!
Best Ice Skating Spots in London This Season
From grand historic locations to modern riverfront scenes, we are highlighting the best spots to skate in style. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, there’s a rink for everyone.
Somerset House – Skating in History
From November 13th, you can enjoy the sweet ambiance of skating at the iconic Somerset House. Every year, during Christmas, Somerset House turns into a hub of festivities, from gourmet dining to amazing shopping experiences. Ice skating is just the cherry on top of the fun cake, and that is the entire experience.
Located in Somerset House's grand courtyard, this rink is a true London winter classic. With its impressive neoclassical architecture, Somerset House creates a stunning backdrop for an elegant, enchanting skating experience that feels straight out of a storybook.
Why You’ll Love It
Historic Ambiance: Somerset House’s grand surroundings offer a touch of old-world charm, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Festive Lights and Music: The rink sparkles with holiday lights and often has live music, creating a magical atmosphere.
Après-Skate Lodge: Warm up with festive treats, mulled wine, and other seasonal favourites at the Skate Lounge, a cozy spot to relax after gliding around the rink.
Pro Tip: Book an evening slot to see the rink at its best. The lights against the historic architecture create an unforgettable winter scene!
Alexandra Palace – Ice Skating with a View
Known by locals as the ‘Ally Pally’ this skating rink is open all year round, but gets particularly festive and exciting during Christmas. This is an indoor skating rink with unbeatable views of the London skyline. It is located atop a hill in North London, which makes it feel even more magical during winter, thanks to the incredible views.
Why You’ll Love It
Panoramic Views: The surrounding grounds provide a breathtaking panorama of London, making it a fantastic spot for a day out.
Family-Friendly Vibe: With a variety of skate sessions, including options for beginners and families, it’s a great place for skaters of all ages.
Affordable and Accessible: Compared to some central spots, Ally Pally offers a budget-friendly skate experience without sacrificing fun.
Pro Tip: Book a Christmas skate session from the 11th of December so you can enjoy your favourite holiday tunes while skating with your friends and family.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – A Must-Visit
From 21st November, Hyde Park will host thousands of people on the largest skating rink in the UK. There will be musicians performing amazing holiday tunes while you spin around in your skates, having the time of your life. The Winter Wonderland theme means you can expect a lot of icy attractions, including an ice slide and an ice kingdom, which will be a major hit for kids.
Why You’ll Love It
Enchanting Holiday Atmosphere: With twinkling lights, live music, and a holiday market, the vibe here is unmatched.
More Than Just Skating: In addition to the rink, Winter Wonderland offers rides, food stalls, and holiday shops—perfect for a full day of festive fun.
Ideal for Groups: Whether you're with family, friends, or on a date, this rink has plenty of space and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Pro Tip: Book your skating session in advance and plan extra time to explore Winter Wonderland’s other attractions—there’s so much to see and do!
Battersea Power Station – Skating by the Thames
If you have never visited the iconic London landmark that is Battersea Power Station, you should definitely go this holiday season. Open from 8th November, this ice rink was recently transformed into a dynamic riverside destination. You get to skate right by the iconic chimneys, creating a one-of-a-kind London experience.
Why You’ll Love It
Iconic Setting: The historic Battersea Power Station, with its distinctive architecture, provides an eye-catching backdrop that’s both industrial and stylish.
Perfect for Photos: With the River Thames as your scenery and the Power Station’s lights, you’ll get stunning photos, day or night.
Shops and Dining Nearby: After skating, explore the vibrant mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants in the nearby Power Station complex for a full day out.
Pro Tip: Head over in the late afternoon to enjoy a sunset skate by the river, then warm up with a meal or hot drink at one of the trendy nearby spots!
Canary Wharf Ice Rink – Skate Among the Lights
Located in the heart of London’s financial district, Canary Wharf’s ice rink is a visual treat. Hundreds of twinkling LED lights embedded in the ice create a dazzling atmosphere. Surrounded by sleek skyscrapers, this rink offers a modern and magical skating experience. This ice rink will be open for 17 weeks this season and close in February, giving you enough time to visit and have an amazing experience.
Why You’ll Love It
Light-Up Ice: The rink is illuminated with LED lights within the ice itself, giving an enchanting glow that’s especially beautiful in the evening.
City Vibes: Skating among Canary Wharf’s skyscrapers adds a fun, urban feel that’s unique to this rink.
Food and Drink Nearby: With a range of cozy bars, restaurants, and food stalls around, you’ll find plenty of spots to warm up after your skate.
Pro Tip: Visit on a Friday or Saturday night to enjoy live DJ sessions, adding a fun, upbeat energy to your evening skate!
Tips to Have a Great Ice Skating Experience in London
Book in Advance: London’s top rinks, especially during the holiday season, can fill up quickly. Booking your tickets ahead ensures you won’t miss out on a spot at your chosen time—plus, it helps you skip any long lines!
Dress Warmly (and Comfortably): Winter winds can be chilly, so layer up to stay warm, but avoid bulky coats that could limit your movement. Gloves and thick socks are a must to keep hands and feet cozy while you skate.
Pick the Right Time to Skate: If you prefer a quieter experience, opt for weekday mornings or early afternoons when the rinks are less crowded. Evening sessions are perfect if you want to enjoy the rink lights and festive atmosphere.
Don’t Forget to Warm Up: Skating uses muscles that might not get much action otherwise, so do a few stretches before getting on the ice. This will help you avoid soreness and feel more comfortable while skating.
Take Breaks and Enjoy the Surroundings: Many of London’s rinks have gorgeous views, holiday lights, or festive decorations—so take a moment to enjoy the scenery. Pause by the rink edge to snap some photos or grab a warm drink between skating sessions.
Stay Safe: If you’re a beginner, don’t hesitate to use a skate aid (many rinks offer them). And remember, if you fall, it’s all part of the fun—laugh it off and get back up!
Wrapping Up
London’s ice rinks offer a magical way to embrace the holiday season, each with its unique atmosphere and attractions. From the historic elegance of Somerset House to the sparkling city lights at Canary Wharf, there’s a rink for every kind of skater. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, these rinks combine the thrill of skating with stunning backdrops that make every glide unforgettable.
So, grab your skates, bundle up, and dive into the festive spirit. London’s winter wonderland awaits—happy skating!
A great way to easily access all the fun skating spots in London is to live in prime apartments in prestigious London neighbourhoods like Covent Garden, Canary Wharf, etc. Fortunately, you can find these luxury apartments on Student Luxe.
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