Christmas means London’s outdoor skating rinks are back and full of festive feels. Whether you’re an expert skater or spend most of the time gripping the sides for dear life, it’s a fun way to spend an hour. There’s one problem with this great idea though - it can be seriously spenny. But, if you’re willing to swerve the more popular times, you can skate for half the price paid by less well-informed Londoners. Here's our Cheapo guide to London skating over the festive season. Quick tips to save money at London's outdoor skate rinks Look for off-peak slots and early-bird options, often found on morning sessions on weekdays. While fixed price spots may not seem great, they can work out cheaper on peak times than places with varied prices, so keep that in mind if you want to skate closer to Christmas. Of course, students and children generally get in cheaper and family tickets are available to help save too. As annoying as booking fees are, with such a popular pastime it’s better to book ahead than risk your chosen session being sold out (yes, even at 9 am). If you're looking for more festive feels or romcom-worthy date ideas, we've rounded up the best Christmas Markets for you; or, for a bit of sparkle, follow our walking tour of central London's Christmas lights and check out our top picks for London Winter Illuminations this year. Skate at Somerset House The grand dame of London’s outdoor skating rinks, amid the neoclassical splendour of Somerset House’s courtyard, this is also one of the most popular. It's about as picturesque as it gets, and that's without the huge 40ft Christmas tree. Prices start at for adults and for children, with concessions available for recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, NHS staff, full-time students and disabled visitors claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP); you will need to add a £2.95 transaction fee per order. There are Skate Lates again this year, which combine DJ performances with evening skating. To nab the cheaper prices go earlier in the day if you can and opt for off-peak dates. For a little after-skate treat, celebrate with a signature Aperol Spritz from the VW Campervan and a warming raclette at The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia. Glide at Battersea Power Station Glide at Battersea Power Station features three interconnecting rinks set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic buildings, with a spectacular 30ft Christmas tree in the centre and a brand new skate trail for 2025. Tickets start from for adults, for children or for a family ticket (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children), but there are lots of other packages to choose from. Once you're done on the ice, there is plenty to do: fairground rides, pub quizzes, a wide range of big-name food & drink options plus more shopping than Santa could handle. Canary Wharf The Canary Wharf skating rink stays open until 22nd February 2026, so it’s worth bearing in mind long after festive shenanigans are over. Boasting a 1200sqm rink, Canary Wharf is a great spot for some winter skating. There's Off Piste, a rink-side bar for the observers, a roof lit by over 1,000 fairy lights so you can skate whatever the weather and plenty of shopping to be had nearby. The sessions last for 45 minutes and include skate-hire; tickets start from for adults or for a family ticket Hampton Court Palace Does it get more festive than skating at a Tudor palace? Possibly not. Adult tickets are from , with tickets for children up to 12 years old from . Family tickets offer some discounts and a booking fee applies to online purchases. The peak prices are among the most affordable in the list and the setting is dramatically gorgeous. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland The Christmas extravaganza is back in Hyde Park, with its gigantic wheel, circus and entertainment shows, places to eat and drink and, of course, a skating rink. For more details, check out our guide to Winter Wonderland. The bandstand provides live music and the chance to skate is pretty consistent, running from 10am-9pm with sessions lasting 45 minutes. Skate rental is included and it's suggested your arrive 20 minutes early to get your skates and be ready to go. Off-peak tickets cost from for adults and for children, with family tickets from and concessions from . The Queen’s House Ice Rink Set within the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rink offers the dramatic backdrop of The Queen’s House and stunning views of the London skyline. There is a viewing area next to the Zero Degrees Café, where you can kick back and warm up after your skate, plus a pit lane where you can take a breather mid-session. Prices start at for adults and for children but there are several concessions and discounted packages available. Skate Leicester Square Take a spin on the ice around the circular rink at Leicester Square in the heart of the West End, next to their winter market. After your skate, cosy up with a steaming hot chocolate, a mulled tipple, or something sparkling at the seasonal bar. Festive Skate at Alexandra Palace Skate around a huge Christmas tree to all your favourite festive tunes amidst the twinkling lights, then warm yourself up with a Baileys hot chocolate or mulled wine and mince pie. Yep, that's pretty much all the rom-com boxes ticked. Tickets are from for adults and for kids, with spectator-only tickets at . On Ice at Brent Cross On Ice is back at Brent Cross, transforming the John Lewis car park into a winter wonderland. Suitable for everyone from beginners and those with small children to skating experts, it’s your new one-stop shop for dates, mates and after work outings for the festive season. Warm up afterwards with a trip to the food court and a wander round some of the 120+ shops in the centre. Tickets are from for adults and for kids, with family tickets available. While we do our best to ensure it's correct, information is subject to change. This article was originally published in November 2017. Last updated on 16 November 2025.
A Cheapo's guide to London
A Cheapo's guide to London
A Cheapo's guide to London