With a chill in the air and the promise of Christmas around the corner, we’re looking for festive activities to take part in this season. So, what better way to warm up than ice skating? Whether you’re a novice on the ice or a professional skater, this fun winter pastime can be enjoyed throughout London this winter season. We’ve found some of the best pop-up rinks for a graceful glide around the ice.

Somerset House

A short stroll from The Bloomsbury sits Somerset House on the banks of the Thames. It was here where the Duke of Somerset, Edward Seymour, resided in the 1500s. Today, lit up by fairy lights and buzzing with the festive spirit, this majestic palace houses a stunning 900-square-metre outdoor ice rink every Christmas. Here you can skate day and night, watching friends fall over and family members loop countless rings around the ice. Not to be missed is Fortnum’s Lodge, where you can enjoy a drink and warming snack for that all-important post-skate recuperation. 

The Natural History Museum

This classic Christmas destination houses a glorious ice rink every year. Just north of The Kensington, The Natural History Museum hosts skating for all the family. With each session on the ice lasting 50 minutes, there’s plenty of time to drink in the merry atmosphere and practice your pirouettes. Plus, their Penguin Skate Club welcomes your little ones for skating lessons from November to January – something to keep them occupied and ignite the all-important festive feeling.

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

A stone’s throw from The Marylebone is Hyde Park where the annual Winter Wonderland is held. Packed with Christmas activities including a Magical Ice Kingdom, Santa’s grotto, fairground rides and themed bars, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the huge ice rink which is the biggest outdoor rink in the UK. Illuminated by over 100,000 lights, it wraps around the Victorian bandstand and provides the perfect location for an evening of celebrating the season. 

Alexandra Palace

This indoor skating arena, located to the north of London, is open all year-round, but the perfect time to visit is this season. With skating lessons hosted every day, including figure skating, ice hockey training and kid’s lessons, this is the place to practice gliding around backwards or nailing some fancy tricks.

The Tower of London

To the east of the city, you’ll stumble across one of London’s most famous landmarks which will house a seasonal ice rink from this month until January. Set in an incredible historic location, with views of the tower’s walls and turrets, blade around the rink to festive music with friends and family. You can retire to hot food and drink on the side-lines after a tiring session engaging in one of London’s best winter traditions.

Images from Flickr.