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The 12 Ice Rinks of Christmas: Where to go ice skating in London this winter

On the twelfth rink of Christmas, my true love gave to me… a sweet hot chocolate and slightly wobbly knees.

London’s skating season is officially here— and this year, there are twelve dazzling rinks to explore in the capital, from royal palaces to riverside views, twinkling markets to covered city squares, our round-up has all the best spots in London to slip, slide and sparkle your way through winter. So lace up, grab a mulled wine, and let’s glide into Christmas.

Two children joyfully skating on ice while using penguin-shaped supports for balance, smiling and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Queen’s House Ice Rink, located on the North Lawns

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

Skate beneath Canary Wharf’s glittering skyline at this covered rink — London’s longest-running season. The mirrored roof keeps you dry, while the Oasis Bar & Terrace offers cocktails and nibbles with a view.
When: 25 October 2025 – 23 February 2026
Where: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf
How much: Child £16.95. Adult £21.95


ON ICE Brent Cross

Brent Cross’s family-friendly rink brings festive cheer to North London, with storytime sessions, Christmas tunes and food spots just steps away. Perfect for a weekend glide with little ones.
When: 31 October 2025 – 4 January 2026
Where: John Lewis Car Park at Brent Cross Shopping Centre
How much: From: £12.00

Skate Leicester Square

The West End’s rink is back, sparkling at the heart of Leicester Square’s Christmas market. Expect fairy lights, street food and enough festive energy to power the entire Square.
When: 1 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Where: Leicester Square
How much: From £14.50


Glide at Battersea Power Station

A trio of interlinked rinks surrounds a giant Christmas tree with the Thames glinting alongside. Battersea’s eateries, bars and fairground rides make it a full festive day out.
When: 7 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Where: Battersea Power Station
How much: From £11.50


Skate at Somerset House

London’s most iconic rink takes over Somerset House’s neoclassical courtyard once again. Expect a towering tree, Skate Lates DJ nights and festive photo ops galore.
When: 12 November 2025 – 11 January 2026
Where: Somerset House, Strand
How much: From £15

The Winter Gardens, Lewisham

South London’s first indoor rink lands inside the brand-new Winter Gardens at Beckenham Place Park. There’s a circus, mini golf, markets and more — a whole winter world under one roof.
When: 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Where: Beckenham Place Park, Lewisham
How much: From £10


Westfield London Ice Rink

An open-air rink for all levels, complete with fake snow showers every 15 minutes. Skate, shop, sip — repeat. The cafés and restaurants nearby make warming up easy.
When: Mid-November 2025 – Early January 2026 (TBC)
Where: Westfield White City, Shepherd’s Bush
How much: From £12


Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink

The UK’s biggest rink curves around a Victorian bandstand, sparkling under thousands of lights. Pair your session with the rides, markets and mulled wine of Winter Wonderland.
When: 14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Where: Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland
How much: From £11.30

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

Glide beside Henry VIII’s Tudor palace façade at one of London’s most romantic rinks. Hot chocolate and mulled wine await in the festive Ice Café & Bar.
When: 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Where: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey
How much: From £13.50


Rooftop Ice Rink in Peckham

A brand new roof-top ice rink is set to open this season in Peckham, and it will be London’s highest! Offering breathtaking views of the London skyline from five floors up, this exciting ice rink will give Londoners the incredible opportunity to skate while surrounded by the stunning sights of the city.
When: 17 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Where: Bussey Rooftop Bar, Peckham
How much: From £9


Winter Funland at Olympia

An indoor Christmas carnival with rides, performances and its own ice rink — all under a glittering roof. Ideal for little ones (and anyone avoiding the cold).
When: December 2025 – January 2026
Where: Winter Funland, Olympia London
How much: Included in Winter Funland £37.00 ticket.

Alexandra Palace Ice Rink

Ally Pally’s year-round rink gets a festive makeover with fairy lights, themed sessions and unbeatable skyline views. The classic London skating fix.
When: Open year-round
Where: Alexandra Palace, Muswell Hill
How much: From £11

A promotional sign for the Skate Leicester Square ice skating rink, featuring festive illustrations, details about the dates and activities like bars and Christmas markets.

Whether you’re a seasoned spinner or a cautious clinger-to-the-rail, these twelve ice rinks promise a season of sparkle across the capital.

Keep up to date with more family-friendly fun by following us on Instagram. For more ideas of things to do with the kids in London, visit our events and activities area which provides details of free and ticketed events and special offers from London’s finest venues.