With seasonal indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks cropping up all over London and the south west each year, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the best locations. Read more about our top picks, and how to get to each rink on South Western Railway’s network.
*Please note: all prices presented represent the minimum cost during off-peak hours.
If you’re looking for Cheap ice skating in London, Somerset House is one of the more reasonably priced. This picture-perfect ice skating rink is nestled into the courtyard of one of the south west’s best stately homes and has plenty to offer. From skating lessons with Skate School and Chilled Out sessions to trailblazing DJs on the rink-side decks for Skate Lates, there's something for everyone. There will also be exclusive evenings hosted by Virgin Atlantic Holidays, op-up restaurants and bars – gourmet dining at The Chalet and festive shopping from Shelter Boutique - a selection of pre-loved clothing, homewares and gifts.
How to get there: Somerset House is a leisurely 15-minute stroll from London Waterloo.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH
As one of the best ice rinks in London, Winter Wonderland’s ice skating should be on your London bucket list. Grab your skates and soar around a Victorian Bandstand under a canopy of sparkling fairy lights to truly live life out of a romance novel. In fact, with its Christmas markets, whimsical fairground, delicious snacks and more, Winter Wonderland is one of the top romantic things to do in London this Christmas.
How to get there: There are many tube stations near Hyde Park, including Green Park, Knightsbridge, Lancaster Gate, Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner.
From London Waterloo, we recommend catching the Jubilee tube eastbound. Get off at Green Park, then walk for around eight minutes to Winter Wonderland.
As Henry VIII’s former residence, Hampton Court Palace is a marvellous and majestic setting to practice your skating. This historic Tudor palace is the perfect spot for some festive photos, providing a beautiful lit-up backdrop as you skate. Once you’re skated out, grab a warming drink from the bar and bask in the beauty of your surroundings. There is also a Festive Fayre at weekends on 6-8 and 13-15 December.
How to get there:Hampton Court station is just a five-minute walk from the Palace.
Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, Glide at Battersea Power Station offers unrivalled views of the Thames as you skate around three interconnecting rinks surrounded by twinkling lights and a spectacular 30ft Christmas tree. Skaters are able to carry on the good vibes in The Glass House to warm up with a hot choc or something a bit stronger.
How to get there: Catch the train to either Queenstown Road (Battersea) or Vauxhall and enjoy a scenic stroll down the River Thames path to get to the Power Station or from Waterloo catch the Northern line tube to Battersea Power Station.
For a fun day with family, friends or your partner, pay a trip to Canary Wharf’s ice skating rink. Surrounded by the area’s signature skyscrapers, you’d be hard-pressed to find an ice skating rink like it. With over 1,000 glittering fairylights creating a romantic feel perfect for a date night, thos roof-covered rink holds out in all weathers. Plus, there are plenty of bustling bars and restaurants nearby, so the fun doesn’t have to stop once your skate is over.
How to get there: You can get from London Waterloo to Canary Wharf’s ice skating rink in 16 minutes. Take the Jubilee line westbound, get off at Canary Wharf, then walk for four minutes.
Located in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens, SKATE Bournemouth’s real ice rink promises plenty of festive fun. Wear yourself out with a session on the ice, then make a pit stop at Moguls Alpine Barto enjoy some winter warmers and sweet treats. Visiting with kids who’ve never skated before? Not to worry—the centre provides ice skating aids to help little ones find their feet!
How to get there: From Bournemouth station, your journey should take around eight minutes. Get on the 4 or 5a bus towards Bournemouth and ride until you reach Bournemouth Pier, then walk for just one minute.
Want the grand London ice skating experience without heading into the big city? At Portsmouth’s Guildhall Square, open-air ice skating has never been more beautiful. Set in the bustling centre of Portsmouth with the stunning town hall as the backdrop, this canopied ice skating rink makes for a great day out, no matter the weather. After you’ve hung up your skates, follow your nose to the nearby festive food stalls to replenish your energy.
How to get there: Guildhall Square is just a few minutes’ walk from Portsmouth & Southsea.
For a magical evening, grab your skates and glide around the historical Alexandra Gardens in Windsor. A perfect date night activity or day out with the kids, Windsor on Ice offers a fully-covered ice rink, viewing area serving delicious snacks and a bar and grill serving up all your festive favourites. After you’ve hung up your skates, why not pay a visit to Windor’s shopping centre? At just a five-minute walk away, there’s plenty to get up to, from Christmas shopping to enjoying Christmas movies on the indoor big screen.
With many great Christmas spots to visit over the festive period, be sure to plan your journey ahead. Book your train tickets in advance to secure the best prices, and explore a range of ticket types to suit your needs.
Top Christmas shopping spots in London and the South West
Shopping at Christmas can be a magical experience with festive lights and dazzling window displays at the top spots. Read our guide here. Travel with South Western Railway.
