The coolest ice skating rinks in London

Ready to twirl on ice? This winter, test your skills while soaking up the festive atmosphere at some of London’s most recognizable locations, from the grand facade of Somerset House to the unmistakable architecture of Battersea Power Station. The capital’s many ice rinks boast a buzzy après-skate scene as well, so don’t head home before sampling a few tried and true festive refreshments (hello, mulled wine and mince pies) or perhaps even a multi-course meal at a pop-up restaurant. Read on for our list of the coolest ice skating rinks in London.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has been a festive favorite since its launch in 2007. Come for the U.K.’s largest ice rink, stay for the Christmas markets, fairground rides, ice bar, Bavarian Village, Zippos Christmas Circus, live music, ice sculpting workshops, cozy lodges, carousel bar, and more. In fact, there’s so much to do at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland you might need to visit more than once.

For what is arguably the fanciest London ice skating experience, head to Somerset House Ice Rink. Besides being one of the most atmospheric places to skate in the city thanks to the neoclassical architecture and a resplendent 40-foot Christmas tree, this rink also boasts live DJ sets, a champagne and cocktail lounge sponsored by Moët & Chandon, and gourmet dining pop-ups. This year, book a table at Chalet Suisse by Jimmy Garcia, an alpine-inspired restaurant serving up Swiss-themed dishes like älplermagronen (macaroni in Swiss cheese sauce) and several types of fondue from vegan to winter black truffle.

Glide at Battersea Power Station is a brand-new addition to the festive ice skating scene in London and, as the only rink set right on the River Thames, it’s set to become an instant classic. After taking your turn on the ice, check out the vintage fairground rides, food and drink vendors (mulled wine is a must), and live music, plus bingo and pub quiz nights on Tuesdays hosted by the Good Time Gals trivia hosts.

Thought rooftop bars were a summer-only activity? Think again, because Skylight Tobacco Dock has launched an elevated rink with unparalleled views of the London skyline. After a 45-minute skate session on what bills itself as Europe’s first rooftop rink, grab a seat at the après-skate bar for a warming boozy tipple and a burger. Skylight also has heated igloos available to rent—perfect for cozying up with your favorite people to celebrate the holiday season.

A 40-minute drive from central London, Henry VIII’s sixteenth-century palace makes an impressive backdrop for a skate session, especially after dark when its grand facade is softly illuminated. After gliding around the Hampton Court Palace ice rink, make a beeline for Miss Polly’s Café to warm up with a decadent hot chocolate and a flaky sausage roll (meat or vegan).

Situated amid the shiny skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, this covered ice rink is open for 18 weeks, welcoming skaters until late February. The rink’s giant disco ball comes into its own on Wednesdays, when a DJ and saxophonist duo play live during evening sessions. Once you’ve finished on the ice, head to Off Piste Bar for drinks.

The ice skating rink at “Ally Pally” is technically open all year round for skating sessions, lessons, and ice hockey games, but a visit during the festive season is special, with the holiday skate season running through January 1, 2023. Be on the lookout for Christmas ice disco nights, when DJs will be spinning classic holiday tunes. Afterwards, head to East Court Café for a Baileys hot chocolate and other indulgent treats.