Okay, so it may only be November, but with less than 50 days until the big day, you know we’re all buzzing with Christmas spirit and cheer. ‘Tis truly the season folks… The season to cling on to the edge of an ice rink for dear life – and I know that to be true, because one of London’s most iconic ice rinks has returned and flung open its doors for the festive season.
Skate at Somerset House has made its grand return to the capital city this month, and is ready to serve up another season of festive fun and frolics. Each and every year, the beloved London landmark delivers an unparalleled winter experience. But this time, the festivities will be bigger and better than ever, as they mark the end of Somerset House’s 25th birthday year.
Skate at Somerset House
Visitors of all ages can skate (or stumble) around the historic courtyard, in front of the unbeatable backdrop of Somerset House and its gorgeous 40-foot Christmas tree. The setting is – as usual – fit for the scene of a festive flick, offering the perfect spot for some seasonal socialising.
As with previous years, there are plenty of events and activities to get stuck into throughout the season. We’re talking Skate Lates sessions ,which offer after-hours access to the rink with a soundtrack supplied by some of London’s hottest DJs. There are also chilled out sessions on offer (with reduced capacity and quieter music), a kids Skate Club, and the ever-so popular Skate School. This year, there is also a Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, which gives visitors the chance to enjoy some seasonal drinks, special sessions, and a wonderful view of the rink.
Pop-up legend, Jimmy Garcia, has also returned with his cosy restaurant, The Chalet. The Alpine-inspired spot provides skaters with some warming winter grub to help them refuel after a skating sesh.
For any Christmas shopping needs, the Shelter Boutique pop-up is the place to go. With special guest takeovers from the likes of AllSaints, Nobody’s Child, Oliver Bonas, and Topshop; visitors can browse a selection of clothing and gifts. And all money raised here will go towards Shelter’s vital services towards tackling the housing crisis.
To celebrate the venue’s 25th birthday, Skate at Somerset House is also hosting a rather ambitious art installation, too. The ice rink will become a communal canvas, courtesy of artist Harold Offeh, and skaters can unleash their own creativity by making playful movements and dynamic drawings on the ice.
Visiting Skate at Somerset House
Skate at Somerset House is open from November 12, 2025 – January 11, 2026. Tickets are available on their website. Being one of London’s most popular festive events, the tickets do tend to sell out rather quickly – so we’d recommend getting a skate on if you’d like to attend. See what I did there?