Giles Guide: London's Winter Ice Skating 2024/25

Ready to glide into the festive season? London's stunning ice rinks offer magical experiences against some of the city's most iconic backdrops. From historic palaces to modern landmarks, here's your guide to the capital's most enchanting skating venues!

Historic Settings

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

Skate against the magnificent backdrop of Henry VIII's Tudor palace, which transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours as darkness falls. Complete your royal skating experience with seasonal refreshments from the Ice Café and Bar, where you can warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, KT8 9AU

Dates: 22nd November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: Various sessions from 10am-9pm

Price: £16-£19 (adults), £11-£14 (children)

Website: Hampton Court Palace

Somerset House Ice Rink

Glide across the ice in one of London's most picturesque settings, complete with a towering Christmas tree and neoclassical architecture. After skating, warm up at the Chalet Suisse with Alpine winter favourites and raclette, or enjoy cocktails under the stars at the Skate Lounge.

Location: Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA

Dates: 15th November 2024 – 14th January 2025

Time: Various sessions from 10am-10:30pm

Price: From £10

Website: Somerset House

Modern Marvels

Battersea Power Station Glide Ice Rink

Experience London's first and only riverside ice rink at the iconic Battersea Power Station. This magnificent open-air venue features three interconnected rinks centered around a spectacular 30-foot Christmas tree, complete with vintage fairground rides and live entertainment.

Location: Battersea Power Station, SW8 5BN

Dates: 8th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: Various sessions available

Price: £16 (adults), £10.50 (children 12 and under)

Website: Battersea Power Station

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

Skate under sparkling lights surrounded by London's tallest skyscrapers at this extended-season rink. Try your hand at curling, enjoy the rink-side bar, or explore the many restaurants and bars nearby for post-skating refreshments.

Location: Canada Square Park, E14 5AB

Dates: 26th October 2024 – 23rd February 2025

Time: Various sessions available

Price: £13.95 for adult and children with an option for family tickets

Website: Ice Rink Canary Wharf

The Ice Rink at Westfield London

Combine shopping with skating at one of Europe's largest shopping centres. This impressive rink features one of the capital's largest ice rinks with a magnificent 65-foot Christmas tree as its centrepiece.

Location: Westfield London, Ariel Way, W12 7GF

Dates: 15th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Time: Various sessions available

Price: £16.66 (adult), £13.65 (children)

Website: Westfield London

Skating Tips

• Book sessions in advance, especially for weekend and evening slots

• Arrive 20 minutes before your session to collect skates

• Wear warm socks and gloves

• Most rinks offer skate aids for children and beginners

• Consider weekday sessions for quieter skating experiences

• Many rinks offer special packages including food and drink

Getting There

A stay at St Giles London Hotel perfectly positions our guests to access many of London's ice rinks. Be sure to book your holiday stay with us today by clicking here. Our friendly staff can help you plan the best routes and book your skating sessions.

For direct routes we recommend:

• Somerset House – 19 minutes by the Northern Line

• Canary Wharf - 22 minutes by Elizabeth Line

• Battersea Power Station – 27 minutes by Northern Line