Dust off your winter coats and your wooliest socks, because ’tis (very nearly) the season to cling on to the edge of an ice rink for dear life. That’s right, folks: the darker nights and the colder days can only mean one thing. Christmas is coming and along with it comes one of London’s most beloved festive activities; the Somerset House ice rink.
Skate at Somerset House will be making its grand return to the capital city on November 13, ready for another season of festive fun. Serving up an unparalleled winter experience; visitors can skate (or stumble) around the historic courtyard in front of an unbeatable backdrop of Somerset House and its whopping 40-foot Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights.
What to expect at the Somerset House ice rink
This year, Somerset House has partnered with Virgin Atlantic Holidays for the event, with further support from Whispering Angel and HSBC UK – and there will be a whole host of events taking place. The Skate Lates sessions will offer after-hours rink access with music from top London DJs, and there will also be chilled out sessions (with reduced capacity and lower music), and a kids Skate Club.
The rink-side Skate Lounge will be returning this year, courtesy of Whispering Angel, who will be on hand to prove that rosé is for life, not just for summer. The lounge will be serving up a full menu of festive rosé cocktails, from a steaming cup of mulled Whispering Angel to modern pink twists on classic cocktails.
Pop-up legend, Jimmy Garcia, is back with his cosy restaurant, the Chalet. The Alpine-inspired hangout will be providing skaters with some warming winter grub, the perfect way to refuel after a skating sesh. And this year, the Chalet will be hosting ‘Après Skate’ evenings, complete with live music and – of course – fondue.
For any last-minute Christmas shopping needs; the Shelter Boutique pop-up will be the place to go. There visitors will be able to browse a “handpicked selection of pre-loved vintage, designer and high-street clothing and gifts” – and money raised here will go towards Shelter’s vital services towards tacking the housing crisis.
Skate at Somerset House is a true highlight of London’s festive calendar, and you certainly won’t want to miss it. It’s almost time to step skate into Christmas, and I, for one, can’t wait.
Skate at Somerset House will be open from November 13, 2024 – January 12, 2025. Tickets go on sale at 10am on October 2 with prices starting at £15 for adults and £10 for kids. Find out more and book your tickets here.