As we enter December Christmas is fast approaching. For both beginners and experienced skaters alike, gliding across one of the many ice skating rinks located in London is surely one of the best ways to take a break away from the chaos of Christmas shopping and get into the festive spirit.
Located in Alexandra Park, a short train ride from Kings Cross, is Alexandra Palace, home to a permanent Victorian Ice Rink. One of the biggest in London with a capacity of over 1,000, this is an indoor rink so there’s no need to worry about the weather, whilst the rinkside bar is a great place to source refreshments after skating. It’s also worth taking some time to explore the park itself, and it’d be hard to find a view of London better than the one from the palace.
Located in the heart of the City of London, Broadgate ice rink is the longest running outdoor rink in London. The ice rink is close to many shops, bars and restaurants, not to mention Spitalfields Market, so is a great opportunity for those hoping to take a break from Christmas Shopping. A new pop-up bar and restaurant by the side of the rink serves smoked dishes, craft beer and winter warmers, with an outdoor terrace giving a great view of skaters gliding across the ice.
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Set amongst the instantly recognisable towers of Canary Wharf, this is an ice rink which stands out from the rest. The rink features a unique skate path which leads skaters off the main rink and underneath trees decorated with fairy lights, before they glide back out onto the main area. After skating, there is a bar serving both food and drink which also features a viewing terrace, providing a perfect chance to relax and soak up the festive atmosphere whilst watching skaters on the ice.
The Eyeskate rink is set in Jubilee Gardens in the festively decorated South Bank, with the lights of the famous London Eye providing a breath-taking backdrop for the rink which is located just in front of it. Skaters can even purchase tickets which allow both skating and a trip on the London Eye, which offers great views over London. This unique setting makes Eyeskate one of the most atmospheric places to go ice skating in the city and is surely worth visiting.
While visiting the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than skating around the Victorian grandstand, which is set in the middle of the rink. Those coming after dark will be treated to an even more spectacular scene, as the rink is lit up by thousands of glittering lights. What’s more, there is plenty to do in the Winter Wonderland when finished skating, from Christmas markets and rides to circus shows and an ice bar.
Here, skaters have the chance to glide across the ice beneath the famous arch of Wembley Stadium on a rink which is also next to the London Designer Outlet. The open air rink offers great views and there is plenty more to do once finished skating, with plenty of restaurants nearby, not to mention an all-weather playpark for families. There’s also a Christmas market, a great chance to find unique hand-made gifts and other festive items. Finally, as if that wasn’t enough, all skaters are offered a free hot chocolate.
Located in South Kensington, the lights of the Natural History Museum make for an enchanting winter scene as you skate around the giant Christmas tree in the centre of the rink. The festive atmosphere makes sure that this is one of the best places to go ice skating in London, with both a main rink and a smaller one for children and beginners, whilst the café bar is a great place to take a break, warm up and watch the skaters below.
This huge outdoor ice rink is set in the centre of Somerset House’s majestic courtyard, which creates a scene sure to produce an enchanting experience for skaters. What’s more, exclusive club nights are held here whilst live Christmas-themed entertainment is also offered every Tuesday. As well as this skaters can pay a visit to The Christmas Arcade which is located in Somerset House’s West Wing, providing a good opportunity to find festive gifts and enjoy the view, which looks out over the rink.
Ice Skate Vauxhall is the first event of its kind in Vauxhall’s Pleasure Gardens. The rink is set amongst trees beautifully decorated with fairy lights, helping to create a unique and festive atmosphere not just for skaters, but throughout the Pleasure Gardens. The rink is surrounded by a variety of pop up restaurants which are a great way to refuel after skating, whilst there are also plenty of other attractions to keep you entertained, such as the Christmas Tree Maze.
Set in the heart of the Shepherd’s Bush Westfield Shopping Centre, the atrium is transformed into a huge ice rink. Skaters can revel in live music which is played several days a week, providing great entertainment and atmosphere, ensuring that this is one of the best places in the capital to go ice skating. Skating aids in the shape of penguins and seals are also available for children who are just learning, ensuring that everyone enjoys their skating experience.
