Ice Skating in London 2024-2025

London's historical and modern landmarks make this traditional winter activity into a truly beautiful experience

Best time: mid-November–early January

In addition to the plenty of ice rinks that operate throughout the year, London offers a few seasonal venues that run only around Christmas time. Each winter, London fills up with pop-up rinks, from legendary venues like Somerset House to exciting new ones like Glide at Battersea Power Station.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (November 21, 2024–January 5, 2025)

The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink is the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, set around a charming Victorian bandstand and illuminated by twinkling lights. This fan-favorite attraction invites visitors to trade their shoes for skates and enjoy the magic of winter in the heart of London’s Hyde Park. Conveniently located near Victoria, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, and Knightsbridge stations, the rink is easily accessible. Don't miss live performances by Lu Velvet on select dates in November and December from 2:20 pm to 9:30 pm.

Hours & Tickets

The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, with 45-minute sessions starting every hour. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of day, with adults priced between £11.50 (off-peak) and £16.50 (peak hours), children between £8.50 and £11.50, and families ranging from £34 to £46. Concessions are available from £10.50 to £15.50. Skates are included in the ticket price, with sizes ranging from children's size 8 to adult's size 13, though you are welcome to bring your own. For those seeking extra guidance, trained Ice Guides are available for £35 per session. Pre-book your tickets to secure the best prices.

Somerset House Ice Rink (November 13, 2024–January 12, 2025)

Somerset House offers one of London’s most enchanting ice skating experiences. Set in the 18th-century Edmond J. Safra Fountain courtyard, the rink provides a picturesque backdrop for skating by day or night, accompanied by festive holiday music. Visitors can enjoy contemporary music, exclusive DJ evenings, pop-up bars and restaurants, and Skate Lates with Rock Angel. After skating, unwind at Fortnum’s Lodge with delicious drinks and snacks, or indulge in festive shopping. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an extraordinary event featuring The Bitten Peach, the UK’s first queer Pan-Asian performance collective. Enjoy a night filled with ice skating, cabaret, DJs, and a breathtaking view of the Mayor of London’s iconic fireworks over the Thames.

Hours & Tickets

Somerset House’s ice rink is open daily from 9 am to 10:45 pm, with seasonal session times occasionally shortened. Ticket prices for adults range from £15 to £26.50, while children aged 12 and under are priced between £10 and £15. Families can enjoy a 10% discount on group orders of up to four or eight. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transport, as parking is unavailable.

Alexandra Palace Ice Rink Holiday Season(December 12, 2024–January 5, 2025)

Open year-round, Alexandra Palace Ice Rink transforms into a festive wonderland at the Ally Pally Ice Rink during the holiday season. Skate beneath a towering Christmas tree surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music, and occasional snow flurries. Highlights include Christmas Ice Discos with dazzling lights and holiday classics, Santa’s Grotto, and the "Horrible Histories" Christmas show at Alexandra Palace Theatre. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal treats like mince pies, mulled wine, and Bailey's hot chocolate at the East Court Café. Ice skating courses are available for all ages, featuring fast-track options during the holidays, term-time programs, and drop-in classes.

Hours & Tickets

During the holiday season, Alexandra Palace Ice Rink is open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 9 pm and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm. Sessions last a minimum of 1.5 hours, and it is recommended to purchase tickets online to secure your spot. Ticket prices are £16 for standard admission, £13 for under-16s, accessible tickets, over-65s, and essential companions, and £11 for children under 5. Spectators can join for £3.50.

Battersea Power Station

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

Those who prefer modern cityscapes and fewer crowds are invited to the Canary Wharf ice rink in the towering buildings of Canada Square Park.

Many people also visit the central Eyeskate rink right in the heart of London on the banks of the Thames. The Winter Wonderland's Ski Zillertal ice rink in Hyde Park and its nearby carousels are ideal for families. The Tower of London ice rink and Natural History Museum ice rink are also spectacular as well. Finally, you can take a train to the Hampton Court and skate on a rink within the famous royal castle. London's seasonal ice rinks are typically open from mid-November to early January.