The 10 Best Ice Skating Rinks in London
If you’re planning a festive outing over the next few weeks, ice skating is one of those traditions that never gets old. Whether you want skyline views, somewhere magical for the kids, or just an excuse for a hot chocolate afterwards, these are the rinks worth booking.
1. Skate at Somerset House
12 November 2025 – 11 January 2026
The closest thing London has to a Christmas postcard. The neoclassical courtyard turns into a glittering rink with DJ nights, rink-side drinks and Chalet-style comfort food. If you’ve never been, make this the year.
Nearest Tube: Temple / Charing Cross
Location: Strand
Best for: Peak London festive atmosphere
2. Glide at Battersea Power Station
7 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Three linked rinks circling a giant tree, the Thames on one side and Battersea’s iconic towers on the other. It’s brilliant for families — plenty of space, lights, rides and restaurants for when the skating enthusiasm fades.
Nearest Tube: Battersea Power Station (Northern line)
Location: Battersea
Best for: A full day out with riverside views
3. Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
If you want magic, this is it. Skating beneath a Tudor palace lit up at dusk feels like stepping into a storybook. Finish with hot chocolate and mulled wine at the café and call it a perfect December evening.
Nearest Station: Hampton Court (National Rail from Waterloo)
Location: East Molesey
Best for: Family Days Out
4. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Yes, it’s busy but skating around the Victorian bandstand under a canopy of lights at the UK’s largest open air ice rink is worth it. Ideal if you want skating wrapped into a bigger day of rides, food and markets.
Nearest Tube: Hyde Park Corner / Marble Arch
Location: Hyde Park
Best for: High-energy festive fun
5. Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Festive Skates: 11 December 2025 – 5 January 2026
Open all year, but especially lovely at Christmas. Glide around the rink beneath a towering Christmas tree, surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music, and even a sprinkle of falling snow.
Nearest Station: Alexandra Palace (rail) or Wood Green (Tube + bus)
Location: Alexandra Palace
Best for: North Londoners avoiding the crowds
6. the Queen’s House Ice Rink, Greenwich
21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this one feels calm and scenic — no blaring speakers, just beautiful surroundings and space to actually skate. There’s even a “pit lane” for mid-session hot chocolate breaks.
Nearest Station: Cutty Sark (DLR)
Location: Greenwich
Best for: Peaceful festive plans with atmosphere
7. Skate Leicester Square
1 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Right in the centre of the West End and new for this year. Sessions start every 15 minutes, which makes it easy to slot in before dinner or a show. Expect lights, buzz and great people-watching.
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square / Piccadilly Circus
Location: Leicester Square
Best for: Pre-theatre gliding
8. Bussey Rooftop Bar Ice Rink, Peckham
17 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
A rooftop rink with London skyline views and a heated bar serving spiked hot chocolate and pizza. DJs play on Fridays and Saturdays — think more grown-up skating, less penguin aids.
Nearest Station: Peckham Rye (Overground + rail)
Location: Peckham
Best for: Festive nights out with friends
9. Ice Rink Canary Wharf
19 October 2025 – Until 22 February 2026
A long-standing city favourite with a fairy-lit roof and skyscraper views. Ideal if you want festive atmosphere without the West End chaos, plus the covered roof means you are not reliant on the weather.
Nearest Station: Canary Wharf (Elizabeth Line / Jubilee Line)
Location: Canary Wharf
Best for: City sparkle, easy post-work or weekend plans
10. Winter Funland at Olympia
12 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
A giant indoor rink included in an all-access ticket with rides and a circus show. If you’ve got small children and limited stamina, this might just be the easiest win.
Nearest Station: Kensington Olympia
Location: Olympia
Best for: Everything under one roof
Planning a Trip?
A few things to note wherever you skate:
Most rinks recommend booking ahead (even weekdays).
Children’s skate aids vary by venue.
Wheelchair access is available at several sites
Twilight sessions are the most atmospheric and therefore likely to be the busiest.