This article was updated by the Great British Content team on 15 December 2021
It is traditional for us Brits to take to the ice during the winter months so we’ve shortlisted the best places to go ice skating in the UK for you to try out.
The experience is magical whether you decide to skate or not because there is so much to do and see. For one thing, seeing what people are wearing can be entertaining in itself! And don’t worry if you’ve never ice skated before either because you will definitely not be the only person hanging onto the railings for dear life.
Almost every town and city will erect an ice rink at this time of year. To find one nearest to you check out the interactive map here. Click on your region and it will suggest the nearest rinks. Many of them will offer lessons if you want a professional to show you the ropes.
Whilst you are sure to find an ice rink near you, there are a few that are very special and are well worth a visit – here are our favourites:
Brighton Royal Pavilion – Sussex, England
The ice rink at the Royal Pavilion is certainly one of the most beautiful in the country. The Palace mixes Regency grandeur with the visual style of India and China and was built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV.
Dates: Open until 9th January 2022
Cost: Starting at £13 (with Student ID)
Cardiff Winter Wonderland – Cardiff, Wales
Split across two locations, the grounds of Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn have been transformed into an ice kingdom – complete with an ice bar, a fun fair, an ice rink and amazing ice sculptures.
Dates: Open until 2 Jan 2022
Cost: Starting at £10 (with Student ID)
Somerset House – London, England
The ice rink at Somerset house is one of the most beautiful in the country. By day, you can skate whilst taking in the stunning surrounding courtyard that will transport you to a bygone era. After dark, you could be in a swanky night club as a host of international DJs pump out the coolest sounds.
Dates: Open until 16 Jan 2022
Cost: Starting at £11
Hampton Court Palace – London, England
It can’t get better than skating the iconic grounds of Henry VIII’s house. This outdoor rink has stunning views of the historic Tudor palace, whilst the night-sky here lights up with stars. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, treat yourself to some festive mince-pies in the ice-rink cafe and bar.
Dates: Open until 16 January 2022
Cost: From £16.00
Eden Project – Cornwall, England
The Eden Project is well known for housing plants from around the world under ginormous dome like greenhouses. Whatever the weather is like outside, visitors can bask in the warm eco-system, but once a year things get a bit nippy with the arrival of the ice rink. This is a great ice rink to visit because when you have had enough of being cold you can pop into one of the domes to warm up!
Dates: Open until February 2022
Cost: Starting at £8
