Unless you’re a C-List celebrity looking to revive your career and earn some extra cash with an appearance on “Dancing on Ice”, it rarely seems like a good idea for anyone to hit up the local ice rink.
This all changes at Christmas though. Everyone’s down there, delighting in Yuletide novelty by clinging with their nails to the edges while “Ice Wardens” and a couple of cocky regulars (who have their own skates and have clearly been waiting for this all year) glide nonchalantly past at the speed of light. Backwards.
But, like buying presents for other people, ice-skating’s just one of those Christmas “traditions” you have to do. And if you have to do it, and you’re in London, you may as well do it in the amazing surroundings of Somerset House.
Owen Harvey
Skate at Somerset House returns from 13th November, open all day and late into the evening, until mid-January. Thanks to the grand, courtyard setting; the magical lighting; the 40ft Christmas tree and the romantic riverside location for a post-skate stroll; it’s long been one of the most popular pop-up ice rinks in London… which means you’ll need to pounce on tickets when they go on sale from 2nd October.
When not skating you can enjoy the view of the 18th century courtyard, bop to the rinkside DJs, browse the Shelter Boutique and enjoy a glass or two of everyone’s favourite winter drink – rosé – at the Whispering Angel bar. Plus, the indefatigable ‘pop-up king’, Jimmy Garcia, is back with a Swiss chalet restaurant serving fondue, confit duck buns, and some classic Swiss Älpermagronen – a bubbling hotpot of cheese, pasta, potatoes and fried onions which sounds absolutely delicious.
If you can manage to order it.
NOTE: Skate at Somerset House runs from 13th November 2024 – 12th January 2025. Tickets cost £15-26.50 for adults and £10-15 for kids (+ booking fee) – you can find out more, and book, HERE.
Skate at Somerset House | Strand, London WC2R 1LA
Feeling festive? Take a peek at these winter light trails in London