Ice skating in and around London
Feature by Lizzie Guilfoyle
IF YOU enjoy ice-skating or even just watching others take to the ice, there are several ice rinks to chose from, both in and around the capital, this coming festive season.
Canary Wharf – from November 14, 2009 to February 21, 2010.
The compact 450-square-metre rink will be located in Canada Square Park which is surrounded by Canary Wharf’s famous towers. The park itself will be decked with lights; a fully licensed ice-side cafe will stock warming winter food and festive music will add to the holiday atmosphere.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink Website
Natural History Museum – from November 5, 2009 to January 17, 2010.
The new, 1050-square-metre rink is situated in the Museum’s gardens, against the magnificent backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings.
Natural History Museum Website
Somerset House – from November 17, 2009 to January 24, 2010.
Now celebrating its 10th birthday, this is London’s original outdoor ice rink. Situated in the magnificent courtyard of Somerset House, it’s presided over by a giant Christmas tree festooned with lights. A calendar of special events includes Breakfast with Tiffany, DJ nights and Penguin Club.
Somerset House Website
Tower of London – from November 21, 2009 to January 10, 2010.
Back for a fifth year, the rink is situated in the moat beneath the north wall. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available for skaters and spectators in the Moat Cafe.
Tower of London Ice Rink Website
Hampton Court – from November 28, 2009 to January 10, 2010.
Back for the seventh year, the 900-square-metre rink is located on the West Front of Henry VIII’s historical Tudor palace. The Frost Fayre Cafe serves a selection of hot refreshments, such as mulled wine and mince pies and there’s an old-fashioned carousel to add to the fun.
Hampton Court Ice Rink Website
ICExperience at Wembley Stadium – December 11, 2009 to January 3, 2010 – CANCELLED
New this year, this is London’s biggest outdoor rink. Circling the pitch at Wembly, it measures 350 metres long by 6 metres wide and can accommodate up to 700 people.
ICExperience Website
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
This indoor rink, which has a total capacity of 1,250, is open all year round and offers a range of other activities, such as ice hockey and figure skating classes.
Alexandra Palace Website
Winter Wonderland – November 21, 2009 to January 3, 2010.
Set between Hyde Park Corner and the Serpentine, Winter Wonderland will once again transform London’s Hyde Park into an exciting world of ice and festive fun that will delight not only children but adults too.
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NB: Kew Gardens Ice Rink will not be open for the 2009/2010 season.