From the Middle Ages to the present day the River Thames has been the place to go for winter ice-skating. For many centuries the river froze over sufficiently during the winter months to allow energetic frolics on the ice with thousands of London's inhabitants stepping out onto the frozen waters.
Although the Thames no longer freezes over, winter ice-skating is a well-established tradition in London. Temporary ice-rinks are located at a number of Thames-side locations including the EDF Energy London Eye, Hampton Court Palace, Somerset House and the Tower of London.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
Canary Wharf is one of the capital's most important business districts. A temporary ice rink is set up in Canada Square Park overlooked by some of the UK's tallest buildings. The rink will be open from 12th November 2011 to 19th February 2012 and sessions can be booked at the ice rink, by telephoning + 44 (0)844 847 1707, or online at Canary Wharf Ice Rink Tickets.
- Location: Canada Square Park, London E14 5HQ
EDF Energy London Eye – the Perfect Christmas Experience
This is the second year that the EDF Energy London Eye has been the setting for an open-air ice rink. Tickets for a flight on the Eye, taking in some of London's finest panoramic views coupled with a visit to the rink could be the perfect Christmas gift. The ice rink will be open daily from 19th November 2011 until 6th January 2012. This is one of London's most popular skating venues, therefore advance booking is essential. Sessions can be booked at the ice rink, by telephoning +44 (0)871 781 3000, or online at EDF Energy London Eye.
- Location: County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB
Hampton Court Palace
The ice rink at Hampton Court is open from 26th November 2011 to 8th January 2012. The rink is located on the forecourt of Henry VIII’s magnificent Tudor palace which will be open for a wide range of Christmas activities. A session on the ice, followed by Tudor cookery in the Palace kitchens makes a superb family outing. Skating sessions can be booked at the rink, by telephoning See on +44 (0)844 871 8815 or Ticketmaster on +44 (0)844 248 5044, or online at Hampton Court Ice Rink.
- Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU.
Tower of London Ice Rink
The rink at the Tower of London will be open from 19th November 2011 to 8th January 2012 in the grounds of William the Conqueror's medieval fortress. You might even finding yourself skating with Beefeaters, the Yeoman Warders of the Tower! Sessions can be booked online at Ice at the Tower, or by telephoning 0844 482 7799 (from the UK) or +44 (0)20 3166 6000 (from outside the UK). Text phone users: Please dial 18001 before the above number
- Location: HM Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB.
Somerset House
Somerset House has hosted an outdoor ice rink for many years and this season the rink will be open from 22nd November 2011 to 22nd January 2012. It is certain to be as popular as always as Somerset House has again organised several DJ nights. This year's programme includes Ministry of Sound, The Loose Cannons, Joey Negro, Lovebox and Snowbombing. Sessions can be booked at the ice rink or online at Skate at Somerset House, or by telephoning +44 (0)844 847 1520 (booking with Ticketmaster).
- Location: Strand London WC2R 1LA, London.
Important Advice to Skaters
Please arrive at least twenty minutes before your session to allow for skate hire and fitting. Outdoor ice rinks are affected by the weather and ground conditions so check first and wear appropriate clothing. Enjoy!
Frances Spiegel - Frances Spiegel, B.A. Hons. (Open)., Dip.Eur.Hum., read Art History/European Modern History at the Open University.
