Rink the changes: skating in London

There's still a chance to bundle up in your winter woolies and venture out for an invigorating spin at one of these London skating rinks

Art and Design 8 Jan 2018

Skating at Skylight, in Wapping, the rooftop rink is open until 13 January
You can skate at Canary Wharf's rink until 24 February
Somerset House's ice rink is open until 14 January

Skate at Somerset House

Probably London’s most beloved ice-rink, Skate at Somerset House turns the courtyard of this historic residence into a frosty flurry of activity. New this season is a series of ‘skate lates’ with a specially curated programme of DJs providing beats to spin around the ice to. With a Fortnum’s lodge serving sharing treats – such as cheese fondue and mulled wine – to warm up afterwards, it’s clear to see why this is a firm favourite.

Open seven days per week until 14 January 2018; somersethouse.org.uk

Skylight

London’s first rooftop skating rink, Skylight sits atop Tobacco Dock in Wapping, offering a more industrial alternative to the other historic settings. There’s a large terrace with fantastic views of the city skyline, and an indoor bar area with sheepskin rugs to cosy up with. Fondue and street-food vendors are on hand to provide fuel for skating, and there’s even a mini ice-hockey pitch to hone your skills.

Open Thurs to Sun, (evenings only Thurs to Fri) until 13 January 2018; skylightlondon.com

Canary Wharf

The huge 1,300sq metre skating rink at Canary Wharf benefits from being undercover, with an enchanting igloo-style ceiling covered in fairy lights and views of the shimmering skyscrapers towering above. There is also an atmospheric outdoor lane, covered by a canopy of trees, which takes skaters on a journey through the surrounding park. With plenty of shops, bars and restaurants nearby to warm up in afterwards, it’s an experience worth heading out of town for.

Open seven days per week until 24 February 2018; icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk