The holiday season has arrived. Christmas decorations are illuminating our main streets, German holiday markets have bratwurst and mulled wine ready to go, and the John Lewis commercial has been launched. What better way to get into the Christmas mood than spending an evening in the best outdoor ice skating rinks in the UK before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate?
This Christmas Try Ice Skating in UK – Know Why
Ice skating around the UK during the Christmas season provides a great chance to explore different parts of the wonderful country, making for the ideal winter stay-at-home vacation. It gets you out of the house, bonding with loved ones, and gives you a unique opportunity to take in the beauty of iconic British landmarks decorated with incredible Christmas ornaments. Some locations host Winter Wonderland events that feature not just ice skating but also other festive activities like Christmas markets, carol singing, and seasonal food and drinks. This creates a complete holiday experience. The festive time of year is known for its delicious seasonal treats. After a session of ice skating, you can indulge in hot chocolate, mulled wine, and other winter delights that are often available at or near the rinks.
UK’s Top Ice Skating Rinks to Try this Christmas
The most enchanting Christmas memories are created from ice and snow. So bundle your cherished ones up and go ice skating at these best places for ice skating in the UK.
Eden Project, Cornwall
Though not technically outside, this ice skating rink is located beneath the well-known Biomes at the Eden Project, making it a one-of-a-kind activity. Encompassed by seasonal plants and decorated with festive illuminations, it provides the feel of outdoor ice skating without the frigid English climate. For skaters who are less assured on the ice, the Eden Project provides ice skating lessons at certain times on the weekends.
Somerset House, London- The city sparkles with ice skating rinks during the holiday season. The most enchanting one is at Somerset House, where a skating school with time slots for kids over 8 and wheelchair sessions makes skating available to everyone. Indulge yourself after skating with the Skate Extras at the Chalet Suisse in Somerset House’s West Wing, including a gourmet sharing of hot chocolate and chocolate fondues. Ice skating in London cannot get better.
City Hall Lawn, Cardiff
Cardiff’s new ice skating attraction is expected to draw thousands of people this year. In addition to the city’s existing ice rink, which can hold 300 people, Cardiff is launching the longest outdoor Alpine Ice Trail in the UK. One of the latest ice skating rinks in the UK will feature Gorsedd Gardens decorated with a massive Christmas tree, a Ferris Wheel, and a two-story alpine-themed bar – all the essentials for a festive atmosphere!
The Christmas Market- For residents of Nottingham, the square is the centre of the city, and it becomes even livelier during the annual installation of the ice rink. The temporary rink is encircled by a charming German-style market, full of mulled wines and warm snacks as a treat for skating around on the ice. In short, it is among the finest winter places to visit in UK.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London
A massive ice rink, one of the biggest in the United Kingdom, sits underneath a canopy of shimmering fairy lights extending out from the Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park. The Winter Wonderland ice rink provides a romantic atmosphere. While the UK boasts many ice skating rinks, the magical setting and variety of things to do in Hyde Park Winter Wonderland make it a must-visit winter destination. Nearby, a plethora of exhilarating amusement rides contends with a circus, ice ballet, and Santa’s village for your focus. A Christmas bazaar and numerous food and beverage establishments round out the experience. Once in London, also try some underrated things to do in London for something unique and a little unconventional to explore.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink- Enjoy the wonder of winter at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. Skate smoothly around the beautiful outdoor rink, with the impressive Tudor palace as a scenic backdrop. Whether with family or someone special, it will be a charming experience. Put on your skates and create lasting memories in this ageless place.
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton
Brighton’s iconic ice skating rink, with the dramatic Royal Pavilion as its backdrop, looks like it is straight from a Christmas card. The rink, which runs on green energy, is romantic, fun for kids, and said to have one of the most stunning settings in the UK. If you visit after dark, you will see the ice bathed in purples and blues from the floodlights, with sparkling reflections.
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink, Hampshire
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink offers an unforgettable wintertime experience with its location next to the impressive Winchester Cathedral. This charming British ice rink provides an extra feeling of holiday enchantment in an already fascinating place. Although the ice rink is the main attraction, your visit to Winchester Cathedral has much more in store. Wander through the city’s Christmas market filled with artisanal gifts, tasty food, and mulled wine to keep you cozy.
Dundee Winterfest, Scotland
Image Credit: dundee.comDundee Winterfest provides an old-fashioned ice skating event at Dundee Ice Arena, welcoming novices and experienced skaters alike. The arena gives an ideal backdrop to elegantly slide across the ice, enveloped by festive cheer. However, the enchantment does not conclude at the skating rink. Dundee has numerous celebratory activities available after you have enjoyed enough time on the ice. Take an unhurried walk through the city’s lively roads, bedecked with shimmering illuminations and festooned with Christmas ornaments. The ambience is magical.
York Ice Trail, Yorkshire- The York Ice Trail, meandering through the historic roads of the city, provides a picturesque ice skating adventure. Gliding across the sparkling ice, with the renowned York Minster Cathedral as a scenic backdrop, is simply spellbinding. However, the excitement does not conclude after skating. Following your skating, take an easygoing walk through the charming streets of the city. York’s historic buildings, embellished with festive ornaments, generate an enchanting mood that is ideal for absorbing yourself in the holiday cheer.
Millennium Square Ice Rink, Bristol
The focal point of the joyous festivities is the Millennium Square Ice Rink in Bristol. Located in the center of the city, it provides a fun skating experience surrounded by a vibrant ambiance and historic buildings. However, Millennium Square’s ice skating is only the start of your wintertime journey. Experience the lively culture of Bristol after your time on the ice. Discover the neighboring harborside attractions, such as M Shed and We the Curious, which include engaging displays and interactive exhibits. Visit the busy Christmas markets nearby, where you can discover delicious seasonal foods and one-of-a-kind Christmas presents, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine at one of the little eateries along the rink to stay warm.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, Molesey
The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is a lovely place to experience winter. As you glide around its 26-foot Christmas tree centerpiece, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the illuminated Tudor palace as you return to the gardens of Henry VIII’s historic house. You can enjoy festive food and beverages at the Rink Cafe and Bar following your 45-minute lesson. It promises to be a magical journey, whether you are traveling with loved ones or family. Put on your skates and create memories in this classic location.
Battersea Power Station, London
Enjoy skating at Battersea Power Station, which features three connected rinks surrounded by dazzling lights and a big, thirty-foot Christmas tree at this Instagram-perfect rink. Visitors to the rink can enjoy breathtaking views of the Thames. Following your skate, have hot chocolate or something stronger at The Glass House while taking in the spectacle of skaters against one of the most recognizable structures in the city.
Somerset House Ice Rink, London
The Somerset House Ice Rink, located in the center of London City, is a great place to spend time. Skating in front of famous neoclassical structures that are associated with London creates an incredibly unique atmosphere. In addition to ice skating, this iconic UK ice rink offers delicious Christmas events, such as evenings hosted by Virgin Atlantic Holidays, dining at pop-up restaurants and bars, live DJs on the rink, and Christmas shopping at Shelter Boutique, where you can purchase gently used apparel, home goods, and presents.
Wrapping Up
Embrace the delight of ice skating across the United Kingdom from the biggest outdoor to the biggest indoor ice rink in UK and allow the holiday cheer to surround you as you make memories amid the magic of the season, all while relishing a wintery staycation like no other. Put on some skates this Christmas and create some memories sliding across the ice in the UK.