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Discovering the 12 best ice rinks in the UK for 2024 unveils a dazzling array of winter wonderlands. These enchanting Christmas ice rinks, nestled amidst picturesque locations, offer the perfect stage for having fun with your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned ice skater or a complete novice, these UK ice rinks for winter are a place for laughter and soaking up the Christmas vibes. In this blog, we'll highlight the best winter ice rinks across the UK to make sure every ice-skating fan is catered to.
Click the links below to find an ice rink near you:
- The best ice rinks in London
- The best ice rinks in South East England
- The best ice rinks in Birmingham
- The best ice rinks in North England
- The best ice rinks in Scotland
- The best ice rinks in Wales
Why You Should Go Ice Skating in the UK this Christmas
Ice skating in the UK during Christmas is a great excuse to explore different areas of our amazing country, creating the perfect winter staycation. It gets you out of the house, bonding with loved ones, and provides a unique opportunity to take in the beauty of iconic British landmarks adorned in incredible Christmas decorations.
Plus, ice skating at Christmas is universally loved! Whether you're:
- Hand-in-hand with your partner
- Assisting your youngsters in their first ice skating experience
- Sharing laughs with friends,
These ice rinks in the UK offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all. And when you're ready for a break, unwind in a rinkside café with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine, warming both your body and soul.
Now that we've convinced you to put ice skating on your Christmas activities bucket list (along with exploring the UK's best Christmas markets), let's dive into the 14 best ice rinks in the UK.
The 14 Best Ice Rinks in The UK
The Best Ice Rinks in London For Christmas 2024
1. Somerset House Ice Rink, London
Open: November 16 - January 14, 2025
Location: Somerset House, London
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £14.50, Children from £8.50
Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Somerset House Ice Rink invites you to skate against the backdrop of London's neoclassical elegance. This iconic UK ice rink offers more than just ice skating. After your enchanting glide, explore the Christmas Arcade with boutique shopping and festive food and drinks.
2. Natural History Museum Ice Rink, London
Open: October 19 - January 8, 2025
Location: Natural History Museum, London
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £14.00, Children from £8.00
Located within the enchanting ambience of South Kensington, the Natural History Museum Ice Rink invites you to embrace the holiday spirit. While ice skating under the grand shadow of one of the UK's best museums is a true delight, the surrounding area offers even more festivities to enjoy. After your skate, explore the charming boutiques and museums in South Kensington. Admire the unique architecture, adorned with festive decorations, or take a leisurely stroll through nearby Hyde Park. Additionally, indulging in a festive afternoon tea at one of the nearby cafés is a must.
3. Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Hyde Park, London
Open: November 17 - January 1, 2025
Location: Hyde Park, London
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £12.50, Children from £9.00
Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland transforms into a magical wonderland, and at the heart of it all is one of the largest ice rinks in the UK. Open from November 17 to January 1, 2025, this London Christmas ice rink offers a complete winter extravaganza.
In addition to ice skating, explore the fairground rides, stroll through charming Christmas markets, and be entertained by a fantastic circus. Taste traditional seasonal delights and sip on warming mulled wine as you immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
4. Streatham Ice Rink, London
Open: November 1 - January 7, 2025
Location: Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre, London
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £11.50, Children from £8.00
For a local favourite, head to Streatham Ice Rink. This top London ice rink offers a vibrant skating experience in South London with a community-focused atmosphere. Enjoy regular public sessions and take advantage of their various skating programs and events.
5. Ice Rink Canary Wharf, London
Open: November 8 - January 7, 2025
Location: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £14.50, Children from £10.00
Discover the sleek, modern setting of Ice Rink Canary Wharf. Set in one of London’s most dynamic business districts, this rink offers a stylish skating experience with fantastic views of the city’s skyline.
The Best Ice Rinks in South East England
6. The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton
Open: November 11 - January 22, 2025
Location: Royal Pavilion, Brighton
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £15.00, Children from £10.00
With its dramatic Royal Pavilion in the background, Brighton’s iconic ice-skating rink is straight out of a Christmas card. Powered entirely by green energy, the rink is romantic, child-friendly and known to have one of the most beautiful settings in the UK. If you’re planning to visit after dusk, you’ll be treated to floodlit washes of purples and blues, accompanied by sparkly reflections on ice.
The main ice rink offers plenty of space for confident skaters, with a neighbouring section for beginners. For those looking to skip the skates and soak up the atmosphere, you can indulge in some food and drink from the Bar & Kitchen. If you’re thinking of a short stay in Brighton, the Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel is a 20-minute walk away.
7. Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink, Hampshire
Open: November 25 - January 7, 2025
Location: Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices:Adults from £13.50, Children from £8.50
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink promises a magical winter memory in the shadow of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral. This enchanting UK ice rink adds an extra layer of festive charm to an already captivating location.
While the Winchester Christmas ice rink is the star of the show, your visit to Winchester Cathedral offers much more. Explore the city's Christmas market with an array of handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and mulled wine to keep you warm. The cathedral itself becomes a radiant centrepiece, adorned with beautiful lights and decorations. After your ice skate, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Winchester. Explore charming boutiques and enjoy the city's rich history and culture. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in traditional seasonal fare at one of the nearby eateries.
8. The North Pole, Cambridge
Open: November 16 - January 8, 2025
Location: Parker's Piece, Cambridge
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £13.00, Children from £9.00
The North Pole Ice Rink in Cambridge invites you to experience the charm of ice skating in this historic British city. Nestled on Parker's Piece, this rink offers a delightful escape into the heart of the holiday season.
While the ice rink is the star attraction, Cambridge has much more to offer during this festive time of year. After your skating session, explore the historic streets of Cambridge, where centuries of academia and culture merge seamlessly. Admire the stunning architecture of the colleges adorned with traditional Christmas decorations.
The Best Ice Rinks in North England
9. York Ice Trail, Yorkshire
Open: November 18 - January 8, 2025
Location: York City Centre, Yorkshire
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £13.00, Children from £9.00
The York Ice Trail, winding through the city's historic streets, offers an idyllic ice-skating experience. Skating on the glistening ice, with the iconic York Minster as a backdrop, is nothing short of magical. At Christmas, the Minster is beautifully lit, adding to the magical feel of your ice skating experience But the adventure doesn't end on the ice. After your skating session, take a leisurely stroll through York's charming streets. York's historic architecture, adorned with festive decorations, creates an enchanting atmosphere that's perfect for immersing yourself in the holiday spirit.
10. Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Malvern
Open: November 22 - December 31, 2024
Location: Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire
Opening Hours: Sessions start every hour from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £10.00, Children from £9.00
Experience the festive magic at Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ice Rink at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern. This indoor rink offers a cosy escape from the winter weather with Christmas decorations and a festive atmosphere.
11. Millennium Square Ice Rink, Bristol
Open: November 4 - January 7, 2025
Location: Millennium Square, Bristol
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £12.00, Children from £8.00
Millennium Square Ice Rink is the beating heart of Bristol's festive celebrations. Nestled in the heart of the city, it offers a delightful skating experience amidst historic architecture and a lively atmosphere. But ice skating at Millennium Square is just the beginning of your winter adventure. After your time on the ice, immerse yourself in Bristol's vibrant culture. Explore the nearby harbour side attractions, including M Shed and We The Curious, where interactive exhibits and fascinating displays await. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront or visit the bustling Christmas markets nearby, where you can find unique gifts and mouthwatering seasonal treats. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine at one of the cosy rink side cafes.
The Best Ice Rinks in Scotland
12. Edinburgh's Christmas Ice Rink, Scotland
Open: November 18 - January 5, 2025
Location: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £14.50, Children from £9.00
Next on our list of the best UK ice rinks is in Edinburgh. The Scottish capital’s magnificent Alpine rink is worthy of a full day’s outing. In addition to the skating activities, the city also stages a range of seasonal events in conjunction with the Edinburgh Christmas ice rink. Whether you’re in the mood to check out the popular Christmas market for gifts, indulge in some hot chocolate on East Princes Street Gardens or visit Santa’s Grotto, the rink is a treat for people of all ages. If you’re looking for a traditional Scottish stay at an Edinburgh hotel, book a room at The Scotsman, right next door.
13. Dundee Winterfest, Scotland
Open: November 25 - January 7, 2025
Location: Dundee Ice Arena, Dundee
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £12.00, Children from £8.50
Dundee Winterfest features a traditional ice skating experience at the Dundee Ice Arena, open to both beginners and seasoned skaters. This Scottish ice rink offers a perfect setting to glide gracefully on ice, surrounded by the holiday spirit. But the magic doesn't stop at the ice rink. Once you've had your fill of ice skating, Dundee has a host of festive activities to offer. Don't miss the chance to visit the V&A Dundee, Scotland's design museum, which showcases a fascinating range of exhibitions. The McManus Galleries also offer a journey through the city's history, art, and culture. For those with a keen interest in science, the Dundee Science Centre provides interactive exhibits and educational fun.
The Best Ice Rinks in Wales
14. Cardiff's Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Wales
Open: November 10 - January 7, 2025
Location: Cardiff City Hall, Cardiff
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £12.50, Children from £9.00
For a lively ice skating session in the heart of the Welsh capital, head to the Cardiff ice-skating rink just outside Cardiff's City Hall and university buildings. The special event is family-friendly, complete with music performances and a rink side cafe to rest your weary feet after a long day on the ice. If you’re looking for a side of Christmas shopping, visit the city centre’s Victorian Arcade, a few minutes away from the rink. Once you’ve taken in the views from the ground, head up to the sky, with a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel. If you’re pressed for time, stay at the Jury’s Inn Cardiff — a 6-minute walk from the rink.
15. Ice Skate Birmingham, West Midlands
Open: November 16 - January 7, 2025
Location: Eastside Green, Birmingham
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Prices: Adults from £12.00, Children from £8.00
When looking for ice skating in Birmingham, prepare to be enchanted as Birmingham's Eastside Green transforms into a winter wonderland, hosting an ice-skating extravaganza. This captivating ice rink in Birmingham welcomes you to immerse yourself in the festive spirit right in the heart of the West Midlands. Birmingham has a treasure trove of seasonal delights to offer. After gliding on the ice, explore the nearby German Christmas Market, where you can unearth unique gifts, indulge in traditional German treats, and sip on comforting mulled wine.
Which of these UK ice rinks will you choose?
Whether you're a seasoned skater or a novice, these 12 best UK ice rinks for Christmas provide the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories with loved ones. So, make this Christmas truly special by embracing the joy of ice skating across the UK and letting the holiday spirit envelop you in a winter staycation like no other.
FAQs About Winter Ice Skating in the UK
Where to go ice skating in London at Christmas?
For a truly magical Christmas ice skating experience in London, you can visit several iconic Christmas ice rinks. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a favourite, featuring the largest open-air ice rink in the UK along with festive rides and markets. Somerset House Ice Rink and the Natural History Museum Ice Rink also offer beautiful settings for skating and are centrally located in London.
What should I wear for ice skating?
Dress warmly for your winter ice skating adventure! Wear layers to keep comfortable, including a warm coat, gloves, and a hat. Make sure you wear warm socks, and avoid wearing large or bulky clothing that might restrict your movement.
Can I bring my own skates?
At most ice rinks, you can bring your own skates, but they must be checked for suitability. Some rinks, like Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, provide skates as part of the ticket price, but you can bring your own for a suitability check.
Are ice rinks in the UK accessible for everyone?
Yes, many UK ice rinks are accessible to all. Rinks like Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland have ramps for wheelchairs and offer skate aids for beginners. Always check the specific rink’s accessibility features before you go.
Give The Best Travel Gift Card This Christmas with Flightgit
If you're getting organised for your Christmas presents, there's one Christmas gift that can make this Christmas truly exceptional - a travel gift card. Imagine sharing the joy of these enchanting UK ice rinks with your loved ones from across the globe, allowing them to experience the magic for themselves. With a flight voucher, you can turn this dream into a reality.
With over 400 airlines, spanning more than 980 destinations in over 70 countries, the world truly becomes their oyster. So, why not surprise your loved ones with the best Christmas gift for travel?
How To Gift a Flight:
- Select the Amount: Choose the value of the gift card, giving your loved ones the flexibility to plan their dream trip.
- Personalise the Travel Gift: Add a heartfelt message to make the best Christmas gift for travel even more special.
- Send the Travel Gift Card: Your loved ones will receive the travel gift card via email, instantly unlocking a world of travel possibilities.
- Plan Their Adventure: They can use the travel gift card to book flights within the UK or any other destination of their choice, making every moment of their journey truly magical.
So, give the best Christmas gift for travel with Flightgift and let your loved ones embark on their own unforgettable adventures. Whether they're discovering the best ice rinks in the UK or exploring new horizons, the world is waiting to be explored, one destination at a time.
