4 Best Ice Skating Rinks in London

Ice skating provides a blend of physical activity and recreation, remaining a highly popular pastime throughout the year. London features a range of venues, from historic indoor arenas to impressive seasonal outdoor setups.

Whether seeking professional tuition, a public session with friends, or a family day out, this guide details the finest ice skating rinks across the capital.

1. Alexandra Palace Ice Rink

Media credits: yourallypally

Website

Contact details: +44 20 8365 4386

Operating hours:

• Monday: 11 AM - 4:30 PM
• Tuesday to Wednesday: 1 PM - 5:30 PM
• Thursday to Friday: 11 AM - 5:30 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: 11 AM - 4:30 PM

Price: $

Located inside the historic North London landmark, the Alexandra Palace Ice Rink operates as a leading year-round indoor destination. The facility houses an Olympic-sized rink hosting public sessions, professional figure skating training, and ice hockey fixtures.

Particularly popular with families, the venue provides tailored sessions for children aged three and above, alongside weekend ice discos. Skaters and spectators can purchase refreshments at the on-site cafe and bar.

Pro tip: A dedicated skating academy is operated by qualified instructors, offering both private and group lessons designed to refine technique.

2. QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl

Media credits: queens.london

Website

Contact details: +44 20 7229 0172

Operating hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 10 AM - 11:30 PM
• Friday to Saturday: 10 AM - 12 AM
• Sunday: 10 AM - 11 PM

Price: $$$

Originally opened in 1930 as the Queens Ice Club, QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl holds the title of the UK's oldest indoor ice rink. The venue features a 1,100-square-metre ice sheet open to the public throughout the year.

Equipped with modern sound and lighting systems, the venue hosts regular themed nights and public skate sessions. During the evening, the atmosphere transitions to an adults-only setting, with entry for guests under 18 restricted after 7 pm.

Pro tip: Alternative entertainment options are available, including a boutique bowling alley and a retro games arcade.

3. Ice Rink Canary Wharf

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Website

Contact details: +44 20 7418 2423

Operating hours:

• Monday to Sunday: 10 AM - 9 PM

Price: $$

Positioned in Canada Square Park, Ice Rink Canary Wharf is a well-known seasonal rink set against the backdrop of the financial district's skyscrapers. The ice sheet is sheltered by a large canopy, ensuring that sessions run in all weather conditions.

The venue offers full wheelchair accessibility and provides skating aids for young children. Public sessions last for 45 minutes, with the venue hosting regular themed music nights and seasonal festivities.

Pro tip: Spectators can watch from the heated terrace bar next to the rink, which offers winter-themed beverages and light snacks.

4. Lee Valley Ice Centre

Media credits: leevalleyicecentre

Website

Contact details: +44 300 003 0624

Operating hours:

• Monday to Friday: 6 AM - 11 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: 7 AM - 11 PM

Price: $

After a complete redevelopment programme, the Lee Valley Ice Centre reopened as a state-of-the-art facility incorporating two Olympic-sized ice rinks. It represents one of the premier venues for competitive and recreational ice sports in the South East.

The centre offers public sessions, figure skating academies, and acts as the home venue for the Lee Valley Lions ice hockey team. The building meets strict environmental standards, utilising low-carbon technologies and water recycling systems.

Pro tip: Reserving tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure entry and access early booking rates.

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