What’s Christmas without an ice-skating experience in one of London’s legendary rinks? Be it skating around a grand neoclassical courtyard or children’s skating sessions with little dolphin and penguin skates, here are some of the most incredible ice-skating rinks in the capital, that you and your kids are sure to love!
Ice Skating at Somerset House
One of London’s favourite winter experiences and the longest-running Christmas ice rink in the city, the Somerset House ice rink is a must-visit. You’ll find this grand ice rink, set in the grand courtyard with a 40ft dazzling Christmas tree, adding the final touch. Enjoy an unparalleled ice-skating experience with contemporary music playing in the backdrop.
If you’re travelling with kids, this iconic ice rink hosts skating lessons with Skate School on selected weekends. In fact, for kids aged eight and above, there are single lessons and courses, taught by instructors from National Ice-skating Association, for all levels. So, sip in some wine with the ultimate rink-side view at the lounge, and test your skating skills, as the kids have a great time learning something new and fun at the Kids Skate Club here!
With your exquisite stay at The Montcalm Royal London House, some of the best ice-skating adventures in the city will be right at your doorstep! Make sure to add the Somerset House ice rink to your list of winter adventures. It is open from 15th November until 14th January’24, and the early session times start from 9 a.m., so make sure to pre-book one for you and the kids.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
You’ll also find the highly awaited and vibrant Winter Wonderland Christmas market, set around the royal Hyde Park’s Victorian bandstand. Easily accessible from the luxurious Montcalm London City, here you will find a dream-like ice-rink skating experience, perfect for families with kids. With lights sparkling above the huge rink, listen to some great live music as you swirl and twirl around the ice! For both adults and kids, you can book Ice Guides that help you learn and find your way through the ice like a pro.
Moreover, double-bladed bob skates are available here for free for young skaters, perfectly fitting over children’s shoes. If you and the kids are feeling more adventurous, you can also hire the fascinating penguin skate aids, available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re planning a visit, the Winter Wonderland ice rink runs from 17th November ’23 to 1st January’24. Each session lasts for 50 minutes, and the rink opens at 10 a.m. So, arrive early!
Ice Rink Canary Wharf
Running successfully for consecutively 18 weeks in the year 2022, the Ice Rink Canary Wharf is back in 2023! As one of the covered ice rinks, this one is an amazing option if the London weather isn’t on your side. Prep yourself for the most memorable family day out, as you see the lights glistening on cold nights, plus the view of the sparkling Canary Wharf skyscrapers, in the background. This ice rink is open until 24th February’24 and the long session times at this ice rink mean ample time for you and the kids to learn and enjoy ice skating.
Find some time to indulge in some shopping at the Canary Wharf shopping centre, right next to the Canary Wharf Tube station. It is best recommended to arrive at the venue at least 25 minutes before the start of a session. Also, the minimum age to skate is four years. Treat yourself and the kids to some delectable drinks, snacks, and of course some indulgent hot chocolate at the in-house bar, here.
Westfield London Winter Village Ice Rink
Did you know Westfield London’s Winter Village ice rink, includes sessions for children with special needs as part of its seven-week run? Not only this but you’ll find a 65ft Christmas tree at this 1000 metre square rink and several other spectacular festive family events. You and the kids are sure to love the Meet Santa experience that you can enjoy after the first hourly skating sessions. These sessions are specially designed for neurodiverse kids with quieter music, static lighting, reduced capacity, and bob skates available for younger skaters as well. The ice rink is open from 10th November to 7th January’24, and the session will take place from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
There’s no doubt that ice skating is seriously popular in London. So, book your stay with one of the opulent hotels on Old Street London and make sure to pick off-peak ice-skating times for the best experience.
