5 ice skating rinks in the UK to visit this Christmas
As the festive season approaches, we've picked some of our favourite Yuletide ice rinks for the whole family to enjoy.
The most magical Christmas experiences are made of ice and snow. So wrap your loved ones up and hit the ice at these ice skating rinks across the UK.
1. Winter Wonderland, Cardiff, Wales
14 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Part of the city's sparkling Winter Wonderland funfair, this covered rink is see-through, allowing views of Cardiff Castle while being sheltered from the elements. For further fun on the ice, travel down the Ice Walk that extends through the grounds for 150m with a breathtaking backdrop of the Norman Keep.
2. Somerset House, London, England
13 November 2024 - 12 January 2025
The capital positively glitters with skating rinks over the festive season. The most magical is at Somerset House, where a skate school with over-8s slots and wheelchair sessions make the ice accessible to all. Treat yourself post-skating with the Skate Extras at the Chalet Suisse in the West Wing of Somerset House, including a sharing gourmet hot chocolate and chocolate fondues.
3. Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton, England
26 October 2024 - 5 January 2025
Those summer scorchers at the seaside might be a distant memory, but there's still reason to head to the coast this Christmas. Set against the city's Indo-Saracenic-style former royal residence, Brighton's green-energy ice rink has special free sessions for under-5s, and warming offers at the Rinkside Bar & Kitchen range, from hot chocolate with marshmallows to ginger wine and craft beers.
4. Edinburgh Winter Festival, Edinburgh, Scotland
15 November 2024 - 4 January 2025
When you've had your fill of the Christmas Markets along Princes Street, make your way to West George St to enjoy a glide across the ice. Fixed between Castle Street and Charlotte Square, the covered rink makes its mark with its scenic backdrop of the City Chambers.
5. Bath on Ice, Bath, England
15 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
After a stroll through Bath's Christmas Market, slip away to their uncovered ice rink that perfects the festive atmosphere with real ice and a backdrop of the glittering night sky overhead. This Winter Wonderland comes with seasonal favourites, including spiced mulled wine and cider at their heated outdoors bar.
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