As winter approaches, London Ice Skating becomes a festive playground filled with twinkling lights, markets, and some of the best seasonal ice rinks in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, family outing, or a fun day with friends, London’s temporary ice rinks offer a magical experience.
This guide provides everything you need to know about London ice skating rinks in 2025, including opening dates, ticket links, prices, and session details—all in one place.
Quick Glance: London Ice Rink 2025 Opening Dates
| Ice Rink | Dates Open | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Alexandra Palace | 11 Dec 2025 – 5 Jan 2026 | North London |
| Canary Wharf | 25 Oct 2025 – 22 Feb 2026 | East London |
| Somerset House | 12 Nov 2025 – 11 Jan 2026 | Central London |
| Glide at Battersea | 7 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 | South West London |
| Hampton Court Palace | 21 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 | Richmond Upon Thames |
| Hyde Park Winter Wonderland | 14 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026 | Central London |
1. Alexandra Palace Ice Rink (Festive Skate)
Dates: 11 December 2025 – 5 January 2026
Location: Alexandra Palace, North London
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- 90-minute sessions
- Prices: Adults from £11–£12, Children from £10–£11
- Skate aids (penguins/seals) available from £7.50
- Spectator tickets available
- Advance booking highly recommended
The Alexandra Palace rink is indoor, so you don’t have to worry about the weather. A festive café and beautiful views from the palace grounds make this a full-day destination.
2. Ice Rink Canary Wharf
Dates: 25 October 2025 – 22 February 2026
Location: Canada Square, Canary Wharf
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- One of London’s longest-running seasonal rinks
- Covered by a clear roof for all-weather skating
- Family tickets and off-peak discounts available
- Sessions ~45 minutes
Skate under London’s skyline in one of the city’s most stylish business districts, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby.
3. Skate at Somerset House
Dates: 12 November 2025 – 11 January 2026
Location: Somerset House, Strand, WC2
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- Iconic rink in the heart of London
- Tickets from £11 to £26.50 depending on time/day
- Skate hire included
- Features “Skate Lates” with DJ nights and winter pop-ups
This is one of the most famous ice skating experiences in London, set in a historic neoclassical courtyard that lights up beautifully after dark.
4. Glide at Battersea Power Station
Dates: 7 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Battersea Power Station, SW11
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- Three interconnected rinks beside the Thames
- Skate beneath the restored chimneys of Battersea Power Station
- Shopping, restaurants, and festive markets on-site
- Booking details and pricing TBC (based on previous years, prices start from ~£12)
Glide is a modern rink with a retro vibe, perfect for photos and a full-day winter outing.
5. Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Dates: 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Hampton Court Palace, KT8
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- Outdoor rink with stunning palace backdrop
- Popular with families and history lovers
- Skate sessions typically 45–60 minutes
- Ticket prices and times to be confirmed
Skate in front of King Henry VIII’s former home for a truly regal winter experience.
6. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Dates: 14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Location: Hyde Park, Central London
Tickets: Book here
Details:
- Part of the massive Winter Wonderland fair
- UK’s largest outdoor rink, set around the Victorian bandstand
- Sessions run from 10am to 10pm daily
- Skate hire included
This is the most visited rink in London each winter. Go early in the day to avoid queues or enjoy the magical evening atmosphere with lights and music.
Tips for Skating in London 2025
- Book early: Popular dates (especially weekends and school holidays) sell out fast.
- Arrive early: Get there at least 30 minutes before your session to collect skates and prepare.
- Check what’s included: Some ticket prices include skate hire; others charge extra.
- Dress warm: Gloves, thick socks, and layered clothing are essential.
- Look out for off-peak discounts: Weekday mornings or early slots are usually cheaper.
Final Thoughts
London’s festive ice rinks are more than just skating—they’re a core part of the city’s winter charm. From iconic landmarks like Somerset House to riverside experiences at Battersea, there’s something for everyone.
Make the most of the 2025 ice skating season in London by booking early and planning your visit with the help of this complete guide. Whether you’re skating under the stars or taking a spin by palace walls, it’s time to embrace the magic of winter.
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