Top 5 places to go ice skating in London

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.

 

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, before warming 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.

 

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.

 

Covent Garden ice rink

Take a break from Christmas shopping with a spin on the ice in Covent Garden. This winter, the famous shopping and entertainment destination is partnering with Tiffany & Co. to bring you a New York-themed ice rink, complete with snowmen, a Central Park-inspired bridge and a 1.2-metre (4ft) Tiffany perfume bottle inside a snow globe.