From stunning historic locations to modern surroundings, check out London's best outdoor ice-skating rinks. Temporary ice rinks pop up in iconic settings throughout the city and are among the top attractions over Christmas and New Year.
Last year, the locations listed below hosted some of the top ice-skating rinks in London. Most ice rinks begin to pop up in November – check back later in the year for confirmed locations and details of London's best ice rinks in 2020.
Natural History Museum ice rink
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 or mulled wine in the museum's cosy cafe, while enjoying a bird's eye view of the skaters.
Somerset House ice skating
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 during a daytime skating session or make the most of late-night skates, with DJ soundtracks playing under the stars. Afterwards, warm up in the upscale alpine lodge from Fortnum & Mason or browsing for gifts in Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade.
Hampton Court Palace ice rink
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.
Ice skating at the Tower of London
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 twinkling lights. Finish your evening with a tasty winter treat at the Ice Rink Cafe Bar.
Winter Wonderland ice skating
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.
Skylight London ice rink
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.
Queen's House ice rink
There were no temporary ice-skating rinks at the London Eye, Westfield London or Canary Wharf last year, though there are always plenty of festive activities to enjoy in these locations.
Find more top things to do at Christmas in London.
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