Top 8 places to go ice skating in London in winter

Skate right in front of one of London’s most iconic museums, as it’s transformed for winter with twinkling fairy lights and a magnificent Christmas tree. The ice-skating rink at the Natural History Museum is one of the top places to visit at Christmas in London. Indulge in hot chocolate in the museum's cosy cafe, accompanied by acoustic sessions from emerging UK artists.

Glide along the ice at one of London’s most picture-pretty locations with Skate at Somerset House. Spin around the neoclassical courtyard with its giant Christmas tree, before warming up in the upscale alpine lodge from Fortnum & Mason or browsing for gifts in Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade. Choose a daytime skating session or make the most of Skate Lates club nights, with DJ soundtracks playing under the stars.

Drop by Hampton Court Palace for a quick spin on the ice, or make a day of it with friends after exploring the former home of King Henry VIII. The Hampton Court Palace ice-skating rink is set against the palace's spectacular Tudor facade, which lights up with beautiful colours as darkness falls. After skating, quench your thirst with a warming drink at the ice rink’s bar. 

Head to the Tower of London’s ice rink, one of the top things to do in London at Christmas. This gleaming central London ice-skating rink boasts a unique medieval backdrop. Visit in the evening and you’ll find the castle walls illuminated by hundreds of snowflake lights. 

Get your skates on at the biggest outdoor ice rink in the UK at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Glide around a Victorian bandstand, beneath a canopy of fairy lights, and enjoy the sounds of a live band on Winter Wonderland’s ice rink. Afterwards, explore the bustling Christmas markets, enjoy the fairground and tuck into seasonal food. 

Enjoy a magical ice-skating experience under sparkling lights at Ice Rink Canary Wharf. Flanked by some of London’s tallest skyscrapers, the rink stays open far later than most London ice rinks. Once your session has ended, head to the rink-side bar for a drink or check out the many buzzing restaurants and bars nearby.

Skate in style at rooftop ice rink Skylight London, found atop a former warehouse at Tobacco Dock. Sweeping views of London’s skyline are the main draw here, but you’ll also find heated après skate bars serving cocktails, warming drinks and tasty street food, as well as cosy igloos providing the perfect place for a post-skating break.

Venture to Clapham Common to take to the ice rink at Winterville, London’s alternative festive experience. As well as its huge ice rink, this pop-up wonderland hosts a cinema, fairground and roller disco. Enjoy street food, craft beer and vodka shots from the nearby bars and food trucks.