12 Best Ice Skating Rinks In London 2025/2026

When winter comes to London, the city gains a special sparkle as outdoor ice rinks pop up across the capital. From historic landmarks to rooftops, Londoners embrace the cold weather and head out to glide across these ice rinks. Whether you’re a skating novice or a seasoned pro, there are many excellent spots to get your fix of seasonal ice skating.

These rinks, each with its own unique charm, offer a magical blend of seasonal joy, panoramic views, and an opportunity for all, from novices to seasoned skaters, to twirl and glide in stunning surroundings. Here are some of the best ice skating rinks in London. 

 

1Glide at Battersea Power Station 

Battersea Powerstation ice skating in london

Glide Battersea Power Station 

Dates: 7 Nov 2025 to 4 Jan 2026

Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, this year Boots presents Glide at Battersea Power Station. Enjoy unrivalled views of the Thames as you spin around 3 interconnecting ice rinks surrounded by twinkling lights and a spectacular 30ft Christmas tree. Whether it’s a picture-perfect date night, a place for keen skaters to test their blades, skating lessons for beginners, or weekend family trips supported by penguin skate aids for children, the Glide at Battersea offers one of the best ice skating in London and is also London’s only riverside ice rink. After your skate session, carry on the good vibes in The Glass House bar which is the perfect setting to grab a drink whilst watching skaters glide around the rink.

 

  Discover More : glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk

 

 

2Skate Leicester Square

Skate Leicester Square

Leicester Square 

Dates: 4 Nov 2025 to 4 Jan 2026

There’s a new contender for best ice rinks in London, Skate Leicester Square, has transformed the heart of the West End into a festive wonderland. The circular ice rink sits at the centre of one of London’s famous Leicester square, offering skaters a quintessentially festive experience surrounded by the buzz of the capital’s theatre district.

Whether you’re a confident skater or finding your feet on the ice, the compact rink provides an intimate setting that captures the magic of winter in the city. Once you’ve finished your session, the venue’s seasonal bar serves everything from warming hot chocolate to mulled wine and champagne for those wanting to toast the occasion. The adjacent Christmas market completes the picture, with festive stalls selling seasonal gifts and traditional treats.

 

  Discover More : Skateleicestersquare.co.uk

 

 

 

3Somerset House 

ice skating at Somerset House london

Somerset House

Dates: 12 Nov 2025 to 1 Jan 2026

Every year around the festive season the 18th-century courtyard at the Somerset House is transformed into a wintry haven with a festive ice rink. As one of the best places to ice skate in London, this year Somerset House’s spectacular courtyard will be transformed this year into a glorious festive destination in partnership with Whispering Angel Rosé. 

Regardless of your skating ability, this enormous 900 square meters outdoor ice rink in neo-classical courtyard of the iconic building is guaranteed to get you feeling festive, along with a sparkling 40ft Christmas tree providing a picture perfect moment. This year features exclusive evenings hosted by Virgin Atlantic Holidays, on selected nights DJ’s take over the rink-side decks to party into the evening. For the ultimate rink-side seat, enjoy a glass of Provence Rosé at the Skate Lounge by Whispering Angel. From skating lessons with Skate School, gourmet dining at The Chalet to a festive pop-up store, there’s something for everyone. 

 

  Discover More : somersethouse.org.uk

 

 

4Canary Wharf Ice Rink 

best ice rinks in london canary wharf

Canary Wharf Ice Rink 

Dates: 25 October 2025 to 22 Jan 2026

London’s financial district, Canary Wharf is transformed into a magical wonderland during the festive months. A 875 square meters ice rink pops up in Canada Square in the shadow of the city’s skyscrapers as the whole square gets covered in festive lights. Offering up to 11 daily ice skating sessions, there’s no chance of rain cancelling play thanks to the clear roof, lit up by the shimmering lights of giant mirror balls, so come rain or shine, the British weather won’t stop this year’s fun winter day out.

Stay close to the action at the rink-side bar or head to one of the many restaurants Canary Wharf has to offer. For the ultimate post skate drinks head to the oasis bar, as it transforms into an alpine-themed destination with views of the ice rink from the bar and deck or Canary Wharf skyline from the terrace, with DJ every Thursday and Saturday.

 

  Discover More : icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

 

 

5Winter Wonderland At Hyde Park 

best ice skating in london winter wonderland

Hyde Park 

Dates: 14 November 2025 to 1 Jan 2026

Located in the heart of London in Hyde Park, immerse yourself in all things festive at London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. As one of the capital’s 8 Royal Parks, Hyde Park is a popular destination for Londoners and tourists throughout the year, but as winter approaches, this hot spot is transformed into a winter paradise.

London’s Winter Wonderland is home to UK’s largest outdoor ice rink and one of the best places for ice skating in London. Trade in your shoes for skates and enjoy the fan-favourite attraction, set around the charming Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park. The ice rink surrounds a canopy, where the Christmas tree stands and is draped in twinkling lights. Along with an extravaganza with ice skating in London, it offers thrilling rides, a street food stalls, festive bars, live music, Christmas markets, circus along with various shows. 

 

  Discover More : hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

 

 

 

6Alexandra Palace Ice Rink: Ice Skating @ Ally Pally

Alexandra Palace 

While ice skating is available at Ally Pally all year, it feels more festive during the Christmas season. Glide around the rink beneath a towering Christmas tree, surrounded by twinkling lights, your favourite Christmas tunes, even a sprinkle of falling snow. Feel the roar of the World Darts Championships bringing the west side of the Palace to life. In the East Court, soak up the festive atmosphere with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, festive carols (see table below), a pop-up Waterstones bookshop, and Santa’s Grotto.

 

  Discover More : alexandrapalace.com

 

 

 

7  Westfield London : The Ice Rink

Westfield ice rink

Westfield 

Dates: Yet to be released

Westfield London’s White City Winter Village is back, headlined by a towering 65-foot Christmas tree claiming the title of the tallest in Europe. The 1,000 square meter ice rink, nestled near John Lewis in Westfield Square. This year, the ice rink comes with a tropical flair, in celebration of Disney’s Moana 2. You’ll be transported to the vibrant world of Oceania as the ice rink in Westfield Square brings the spirit of the Pacific islands to life.

As one of the best ice rinks in London, it will also offer special parent and toddler sessions, as well as dedicated times for children with additional needs and their families. The skating is just part of the holiday happenings, with Westfield London promising a winter wonderland full of family-friendly fun and games for all to enjoy. Advance booking for the ice rink is highly recommended to guarantee your spot gliding across the ice, but some walk-up availability may also be open.

 

  Discover More : Icerinkatwestfieldlondon.co.uk

 

 

8Greenwich Ice Skating : Queen’s House Ice Rink 

Greenwich Ice Skating Queen's House Ice Rink 
Queen’s House Ice Rink 
Dates: 21 November 2025 to 2 Jan 2026

 

The Queen’s House Ice Rink is a magical open-air ice rink in the heart of Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of the best ice skating rinks in London, this rink is set against the backdrop of the iconic Queen’s House, an architectural gem renowned for its historical significance and stunning beauty. The Queen’s House, designed by architect Inigo Jones in the early 17th century, is a classic example of Palladian architecture and holds a significant place in British architectural history. With views of Greenwich Park to the south and the glittering lights of Canary Wharf to the north, this ice skating in London provides a backdrop of some of the best views in London.
 

  Discover More : Thequeenshouseicerink.com

 

 

9Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

Hampton Court Palace

Dates: 21 November 2025 to 4 Jan 2026

Immerse yourself in the quintessential winter experience at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Hampton Court Palace right alongside the Thames, The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is renowned for offering a unique setting for ice skating in London.

Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent royal residence with a rich history dating back to the Tudor period, creates a stunning and iconic setting for this festive activity. The rink is surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations like pine trees, creating a magical winter atmosphere. With its regal setting, Hampton Court Palace’s rink provides a scenic experience for ice skating in London.

 

  Discover More : Hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

 

 

 

10JW3 Ice Rink

JW3 Ice Rink

JW3 Ice Rink

Dates: Yet to be released

JW3 is a Jewish community centre in north London that hosts an outdoor ice rink annually during the winter months. This small but popular ice rink in London provides real ice skating with views of the JW3 building and surrounding neighbourhood. This outdoor ice rink in London comes complete with glimmering lights, vibrant music and an electric atmosphere. It stands as the sole ice rink in London available for skating on Christmas Day. This year, ice skating will be under the brand-new Dorfman Piazza, so come rain, shine, or snow – you will be able to get your skates on.

 

  Discover More : Jw3.org.uk

 

 

11Brent Cross Winter Festival Ice Rink

Dates: 31 October Nov 2025 to 5 Jan 2026

The Winter Festival at Brent Cross is home to one of the largest ice skating rinks in London. Located in the Brent Cross Shopping Centre, a spectacular standalone ice rink will take over the John Lewis car park, transforming winter days into magical moments of ice skating fun. The ice rink is adorned with holiday decorations and offering a cheerful and lively ambiance.

Regardless of whether you are a beginner or experienced skater, you can partake in the enjoyment of gliding across the ice. In addition to ice skating, the Winter Festival offers other activities like a Santa’s grotto, fairground rides and arcade games.

 

  Discover More : Brentcross.co.uk

 

 

 

12Queens Skate Dine Bowl

Queens Skate Dine Bowl has been around since the 1930’s, it home to not just one of the largest indoor ice rinks in London but also curling, bowling and arcade all under one roof. During the Christmas period, this ice rink in London transforms into a festive hub, offering a winter wonderland. Alongside the ice rink, Queens Skate Dine Bowl is home to Meat Liquor.

 

  Discover More : Queens.london

 

 

Tips For Ice Skating In London

1. Book in Advance : London’s ice rinks sell out quickly during the festive season, particularly for weekend and evening slots, so reserve your spot early to avoid disappointment.

2. Dress in Layers: Wear multiple thin layers and waterproof gloves to stay warm without overheating, as temperatures drop significantly at outdoor rinks.

3. Arrive Early for Skate Fitting : Give yourself 15-20 minutes before your session to queue for skates and ensure a proper fit that’s snug but comfortable.

4. Keep Your Belongings Secure:  Most rinks offer lockers that fill quickly, so arrive early to secure storage and bring only essentials in a small bag.

 

 

More Things To Do Christmas in London

The festive season brings London to life with countless seasonal activities and attractions. why stop at ice skating in London?  London transforms into a winter wonderland each December, offering everything from dazzling light displays to traditional Christmas markets and seasonal theatre performances. Whether you’re searching for the perfect festive afternoon tea, hunting for unique gifts at artisan markets, or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere along Oxford Street’s famous lights, the capital delivers an unforgettable seasonal experience.

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