Indulging in ice skating during the Christmas season is a cherished festive activity, offering an enchanting blend of romance, festivity, and pure fun. London, with its winter charm, becomes a magical backdrop for this delightful pursuit. The city boasts a myriad of incredible ice skating venues during the festive period, each imbued with its unique charm and often featuring exciting additions like disco nights or themed sessions.
As the city is adorned in winter splendor, ice skating emerges as one of the most delightful winter activities in London. The challenge, however, lies in choosing the perfect venue from the multitude of options available. To assist in this decision-making process, a curated list of the finest ice rinks in London for this winter is presented below. Embark on this journey and immerse yourself in the seasonal festivities!
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, a cherished Christmas festival in the heart of London, captivates visitors with its enchanting festivities. From 10 am to 10 pm, this popular event transforms Hyde Park into a Winter Wonderland, drawing crowds from near and far. To ensure a seamless experience amidst the festive fervor, it is strongly advised to secure bookings well in advance due to the event’s remarkable demand.
Located conveniently within reach of Westminster and central London’s iconic landmarks, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a spectacle to behold. The park undergoes a dazzling transformation, unveiling an outdoor ice rink that wraps around the illuminated Victorian bandstand, setting the stage for a magical experience.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the breathtaking sight of a magnificent Christmas tree at the center of the ice rink, adorned with over 10,000 twinkling lights. This radiant canopy creates a mesmerizing ambiance, making it the largest outdoor ice rink in the UK. The combination of the splendid surroundings and the joyous activity of ice skating guarantees an unparalleled Christmas experience.
Planning ahead and securing your booking is crucial to fully relishing this festive extravaganza. Given the Winter Wonderland’s immense popularity, early arrangements will allow you to immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere and make the most of the festive season in London. The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland promises not only a celebration of Christmas but also an opportunity to create cherished memories amid the magical charm of this seasonal spectacle.
SKATE at Somerset House
Nestled within the opulent surroundings of an 18th-century palace, Somerset House’s outdoor ice rink transforms the historic venue into a winter wonderland. The picturesque setting is accentuated by the towering presence of a majestic Christmas tree, creating an idyllic atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in the joy of ice skating. This year, Somerset House’s allure is heightened as Switzerland Tourism adds an exquisite Swiss touch, infusing the rink with an extra layer of delight.
Beyond the enchanting skating sessions, guests are invited to explore the Christmas Arcade, a festive collection of pop-up shops nestled in the West Wing of Somerset House. This seasonal addition provides a unique shopping experience amid the historic ambiance of the palace, allowing visitors to discover a variety of holiday treasures and gifts.
For those seeking relaxation and a taste of the festive spirit, the pop-up alpine restaurant, Chalet Suisse, offers a cozy retreat. Guests can unwind with a cup of hot chocolate or indulge in delectable fare, adding a culinary dimension to their visit.
Recognized as one of London’s premier ice rinks, Somerset House not only boasts a stunning backdrop but also offers a diverse calendar of events. From special club nights that infuse the ice with lively beats to spirited discos, the venue ensures a multifaceted and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Somerset House stands as a must-visit destination during the festive season, promising a harmonious blend of winter magic, cultural richness, and joyful celebrations.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Nestled beneath the majestic grandeur of Henry VIII’s palace, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink beckons visitors into an enchanting royal setting. As the sun sets and the cloak of darkness descends, the palace comes alive with a mesmerizing illumination, transforming the surroundings into a fairytale-like ambiance that serves as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable skating experience.
More than just a stunning setting, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is designed to cater to visitors of all ages. For aspiring young skaters, the rink offers specialized skating lessons, ensuring that children can learn and enjoy the experience in a safe and supportive environment. This commitment to inclusivity enhances the appeal of the venue, making it a destination for families seeking both excitement and skill development on the ice.
Adding to the charm, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink boasts a rink-side bar and café, providing a welcoming space for skaters to take a break and immerse themselves in the festive spirit. Winter drinks and festive treats are on offer, allowing visitors to indulge in delightful refreshments while soaking in the magical atmosphere.
In essence, the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink goes beyond being a mere recreational facility; it is a captivating destination that combines history, regal elegance, and the joy of winter activities. Its commitment to creating a diverse and enjoyable experience makes it one of the most spectacular venues for ice skating in London, offering a unique blend of tradition and festive cheer against the backdrop of a historic palace.
Ice Rink Canary Wharf
Situated amidst the urban elegance of Canada Square Park, the Canary Wharf ice rink emerges as a distinctive gem, surrounded by the sleek facades of towering skyscrapers and the bustling complex of shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. The juxtaposition of the icy expanse against the contemporary cityscape creates a unique and visually stunning experience for visitors.
Illuminated by the soft glow of fairy-lit trees, the Canary Wharf ice rink radiates a magical ambiance, especially as daylight begins to wane. The play of light against the surrounding modern architecture adds a touch of enchantment to the urban setting, making it a captivating destination for those seeking a winter escape in the heart of the city.
What sets the Canary Wharf ice rink apart is not only its alluring surroundings but also the inclusion of a luxurious on-site restaurant and bar. This adds an element of sophistication to the overall experience, allowing visitors to indulge in fine dining and enjoy a variety of beverages in a chic and contemporary setting. The combination of exceptional skating and upscale amenities positions the Canary Wharf ice rink as one of the trendiest destinations for winter activities in London.
Adding to its uniqueness, the Canary Wharf ice rink features London’s only skate path, offering skaters a novel and exhilarating experience. The skate path introduces an element of variety, allowing both seasoned skaters and beginners to enjoy the rink in their preferred style.
In essence, the Canary Wharf ice rink is not just a seasonal attraction; it is a dynamic and trendy destination that seamlessly blends the thrill of ice skating with the sophistication of urban living. Its location within the vibrant Canary Wharf district, combined with its luxurious offerings and distinctive features, cements its status as one of the most captivating ice rinks in the city.
Skylight Rooftop at Tobacco Dock
Perched atop a converted multi-storey car park, Skylight at Tobacco Dock has earned acclaim as “London’s most imaginative rooftop bar.” This innovative venue offers patrons breathtaking views of some of the city center’s most iconic structures, making it a distinctive destination for those seeking a memorable and panoramic experience. The rooftop boasts a vibrant wooden bar and an array of delectable street food stalls, creating an atmosphere that is both cool and lively.
As winter descends upon the city, Skylight takes its cool factor up a notch with the return of its remarkable ice rink, proudly recognized as London’s first and only rooftop ice rink. The juxtaposition of the icy expanse against the backdrop of the city lights adds a touch of magic to the urban setting, making it a sought-after winter destination for those looking to combine the thrill of skating with unparalleled views.
For those seeking an extra touch of comfort amid the brisk winter air, Skylight offers the option to reserve igloos and covered heated booths. Equipped with ample blankets, these cozy spaces allow guests to immerse themselves in the 360° vistas of London’s incredible skyline while enjoying the winter festivities in a warm and inviting setting.
The combination of the rooftop ice rink, stunning views, and unique seating options makes Skylight at Tobacco Dock a standout winter destination. Its commitment to providing a cool and lively experience in the heart of the city, coupled with the allure of its panoramic rooftop setting, establishes Skylight as a must-visit venue for those looking to embrace the winter season with style and flair.
In the midst of these splendid options, London invites you to embrace the winter season with open arms and lace-up your skates for an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s the historic charm of Somerset House, the regal allure of Hampton Court Palace, or the trendy sophistication of Canary Wharf and Skylight, each ice rink promises a unique and magical journey into the heart of London’s festive spirit.
