If you’ve recently moved house or are right now in the process of it, then it’s more important than ever to take the time to relax. And what could be more relaxing and Christmassy than gliding on skates over an ice rink? The feeling is one of jubilant freedom and relief from care and worry. Even novices can fall in love with the thrilling feeling of grace and lightness that comes over you when you’re losing yourself in this wonderful and wintry pastime. In London, there are several options for doing it outside, which is preferable to the comparative soullessness of an indoor venue. In the open air, the feeling of dancing on ice is pure magic. Here are some of our tips for places for great winter skating in London:
Canary Wharf Ice Rink – The sky-scrapers stretching up to the heavens create a dramatic scene in which to don your skates and let go. This year, there’s an ice-covered side-path that allows skaters to leave the main area and then wheel around on their skates beneath trees covered with fairy lights. There’ll also be a restaurant and licensed pop-up bar.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – Come here for the largest outdoor rink in the entire country. Not only will you have all the other attractions of Winter Wonderland at your disposal, you’ll be able to enjoy the lamination provided by the thousand and thousands of lights. If you’re bringing offspring, it’s worth knowing that the smallest skates for hire are children’s size 9.
Broadgate Ice Rink – This long-standing rink, with a history going back three decades, recently moved from Broadgate Circle to Exchange Square. Lessons are available for the uninitiated and there will be special events (to be announced) as the festivities proceed.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink – For really stunning surroundings, this rink is hard to beat. Trees gleaming with fairy lights and beautiful architecture come together to make seasonal magic. There’s an adjacent mini-rink where children can glide in a slightly less frenzied environment.
Somerset House – Who doesn’t fall in love with this formidable 18th-century courtyard? It’s got a delightful, festive vibe that rubs off on all-comers. There’s 900 square-feet for skating, with options for afternoon tea, dining and champagne, plus club nights with taste-making DJs from the capital.
