“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.
The Queen’s House ice rink in Greenwich
With 11 skating daily in the stunning surroundings of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning views of the river, any skating experience here feels truly special.
When: 18 November 2026 – 3 January 2027 (no skating on Christmas day)
Where: The Queen’s Ice Rink
How much: From £15
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: 31 October 2026 – 3 January 2027
Where: Leicester Square
How much: From £15
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: until 3 January 2027
Where: Brent Cross Shopping Centre
How much: From: £13.00
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: 6 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Where: Battersea Power Station
How much: From £12.66
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: 11 November 2026 – 10 January 2027
Where: Somerset House, Strand
How much: From £13
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: 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027
Where: Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland
How much: From £14.65
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: 20 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Where: Hampton Court Palace
How much: From £13.50
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 £11.75
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.
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