Christmas is around the corner, so how about some ice skating to put you in a lively mood this festive season? Imagine it with twinkling lights, cheerful music, and a glorious backdrop all around you. To make it even more delightful, you can warm up with some mulled wine and finish off with delicious treats.
Here are eight of our favorite Christmas ice rinks in Britain.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink, London
25 October 2018 – 20 January 2019
The museum building in the background lends itself well to a festive ice skating experience. Set aglow by fairy lights at night, the ice rink is an enchanting place to be this time of the year and will definitely put you in a merry mood.
Afterwards, visit the indoor Café Bar to cosy up with hot drinks, wines, and yummy pastries as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of the skaters twirling in the rink.
Somerset House Ice Rink, London
Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum Mason – credit David Jensen
14 November 2018 – 13 January 2019
Set in a stunning 18th-century courtyard and decorated with a giant Christmas tree, the rink will guarantee you a unique skating experience this season.
The cherry on the cake is having the coolest DJs playing the best music as you spin.
Tower of London
23 November 2018 – 6 January 2019
Based at the 1,000-year-old Tower of London, this ice rink would be one of the most picturesque that your eyes have ever seen.
You can come in the morning, but it’s best enjoyed at night when the lights are illuminating the walls of the castle creating a beautiful backdrop.
Hampton Court Palace, London
23 November 2018 – 6 January 2019
Head to the 16th-century red brick Hampton Court Palace for a romantic skating experience by the river Thames. This larger than usual 1040 meter squared rink has something to offer everyone: skating sessions throughout the day, a cafe and bar, and the palace’s world-famous maze.
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton, south-east England
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink – credit Brighton Pictures
3rd November 2018 – 13th January 2019
Stunningly inspired by Indian architecture and lit at night throughout the festive season, the magical Royal Pavilion is only an hour from London and definitely a must-visit. For post skating, make sure to indulge yourself with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate to stay warm.
Bath on Ice, south-west England
16th November 2018 – 6th January 2019
If you are going South West, then get your skates on and head to the Bath on Ice event at the Royal Victoria Park. Grab your golf club or rent on the spot, then head over to the glow-in-the-dark mini golf course to add more fun. After so much energy spent, you will probably need to hop on over to the cafe and bar for a well-deserved meal and drink.
Celtic Manor Resort’s Rooftop Garden ice rink, south-east Wales
Celtic Manor rink – credit www.fotowales.com
23rd November 2018 – 6th January 2019
Heading to Wales? At the Celtic Manor Resort’s Rooftop Garden, you will be able to skate and spoil yourself with spectacular views, shimmering lights, and festive soundtracks. There is also a bar offering tasty delights and drinks for visitors to enjoy.
Edinburgh’s Christmas ice rink, Scotland
16 November 2018 to 5th January 2019
Edinburgh is a gorgeous old city up north in Scotland. If you missed the city’s famous fringe festival this summer, there is still lots to enjoy this Christmas season. For example, the oval ice rink is back this year at St Andrew Square! So get your skates on and twirl all the way around the Melville Monument for an unforgettable experience. Make sure you walk (not skate!) up and down the city’s famous Golden Mile street at least once before you leave.
