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Whether you're an experienced skater or resemble Bambi on ice, London has a lot to offer when it comes to enchanting winter rinks. From historic surroundings to more modern settings, the capital is a hotspot (or rather a quite chilly spot) for enjoying seasonal shenanigans.
1. Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
You might struggle to picture Henry VIII taking to the ice, but that doesn't stop thousands heading to his sixteenth-century backyard to enjoy the festivities and the 900-square-metre outdoor rink. Set against a regal backdrop and even more impressive come nightfall, Hampton Court Palace is a must-do for budding Torvills and Deans.
Open: Friday 25 November - Sunday 8 January 2017, 11am-late.
Tickets: http://www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk
Prices: Adults (16+) from £12.15
2. Canary Wharf Ice Rink
If contemporary settings are more your thing, Canary Wharf's lofty glass towers soar above the rink during the festive period, whilst the 8,000 LED lights tie in to this year's theme of LuminoCity. Afterwards, get warm in the pop-up restaurant with real ales, cheese fondue and hot buttered rum.
Open: Friday 4 November 2016 - Friday 25February 2017, 10am-10pm
Tickets: https://www.icerinktickets.co.uk/canary-wharf/
Prices: Adults (13+) from £9.95
3. Natural History Museum Ice Rink
With a stunning backdrop of the Victorian Gothic Revival building that is the Natural History Museum, this ice rink is wonderful for festivity-seeking families. The museum will be kitted out with 1,000 square metres of ice, as well as an adjacent rink specially for little ones. The twinkling lights draped over the surrounding trees make this spot extra special. Meanwhile, live music and traditional fairground rides will set the mood for Christmas fun. Why not explore the museum in the morning and spend the afternoon gliding around on the ice?
Open: Thursday 27 October - Sunday 8 January 2017, 11am-9pm
Tickets: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/
Prices: Adults from £12.65
4. Skate at Somerset House
Self-dubbed as ‘the perfect winter day out', Somerset House offers an ideal milieu for skating, seasonal shopping and general Christmastime indulgence. The eighteenth-century courtyard has been transformed into a glistening floor of ice, as live music and DJ sets create ideal conditions for an enchanting afternoon. Extend your stay with one of the Fortnum's Lodge packages: choose from champagne, afternoon tea and private dining add-ons.
Open: Thursday 17 November - Sunday 15 January 2017, 10am-10pm
Tickets: https://www.somersethouse.org.uk
Prices: Adults from £12.35
5. Westfield London Ice Rink
If it all gets a little too chilly, head down to Shepherd's Bush where you can slide and glide underneath pretty Christmas lights to the rhythm of live music and DJ sets. Why not warm up afterwards with a spot of shopping and a bite to eat at one of the Westfield's many eateries?
Opening: Thursday 24 November - Sunday 8 January 2017, various opening times
Tickets: https://uk.westfield.com/london/entertainment/ice-rink
Prices: Adults from £10.50
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