Here are London's Christmas 2020 ice skating rinks. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation, there aren't as many as in previous years, but here's where you can get your skates on this year.
We will update this list as and when new festive rinks are announced, so keep checking back. Do check with organisers for the latest information, as events are liable to be cancelled or postponed at short notice, or may change due to evolving government guidelines.
Hampton Court Palace ice rink 2020
While HRP's other ice rink at Tower of London has been cancelled, the Hampton Court Palace 2020 ice rink is going ahead at time of writing.
Take to the ice against the backdrop of King Henry VIII's historic home. Choose to skate by day and enjoy views of the palace, or go at night to see its festive illuminations. Skate aids for children are available to prebook, and the Ice Rink Cafe & Bar serves up hot and cold food and drink to enjoy before or after your session.
Even better, all key workers can get discounted off-peak tickets from 4-17 January, in recognition of their hard work throughout the year. This includes NHS and emergency services workers, carers, teachers, food shop and production workers, and their families. Book online using code KEY15JAN, and take along some valid work ID or a payslip to verify your eligibility. Students can get the same discount for the same period, using code STU15JAN.
Hampton Court Palace ice rink, 5 December 2020-17 January 2021.
Queen's House Greenwich ice rink 2020
We're pleased to see last year's new addition making a return for 2020. Located right outside the beautiful Queen's House — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the rink offers views across the river towards the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.
It's a larger rink than previously to allow for distancing, and hot drinks and snacks are available from the National Maritime Museum's Parkside Cafe during museum opening hours. Alternatively, check out our guide to eating and drinking in Greenwich — though be aware that at current times, opening hours may be amended from usual, and booking may be required.
The Queen's House ice rink, 5 December 2020-24 January 2021.
London ice rinks which won't open this year
At time of writing, there are no plans for the following usual ice rinks to open this year:
- Tower of London ice rink — initially this one was going ahead this year, but in mid-October it was announced that this is no longer the case.
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland ice rink — the whole event has been cancelled for 2020.
- Skate at Somerset House isn't happening in 2020.
- Natural History Museum ice rink won't open for Christmas 2020.
- Skylight at Tobacco Dock ice rink — it's now been confirmed that Skylight will open this year, but there won't be an ice rink.
Year-round ice rinks in London
Of course, you don't have to wait until Christmas to go ice skating. London does have year-round ice rinks, though be aware that as they are indoor venues, you can currently only visit with members of your own household.