Atmospheric, exhilarating and highly entertaining – top three open-air ice rinks in London.

With the winter rapidly ascending on the capital, Londoners and visitors alike may be thinking of activities to keep their families entertained through the long winter months. Ice skating has had a long tradition in London, where as far back as the 30s, skaters were pictured skating around Hampstead Heath’s Whitestone Pond on a chilly January morning.

For an entertaining winter’s day – or night – of letting your hair down, getting some great exercise and putting a smile on all the family’s face, check out three of the best open-air ice rinks in London in 2012 and 2013. 

Tower of London Ice Rink

From November 17 2012 until January 6, 2013, the Tower of London Ice Rink will be open to the public. Located in the moat of the London Tower overlooking the compelling fortress battlements, this highly popular ice rink is one of the most dramatic open-air ice rinks in London.

Being spectacularly lit up after dark, the Tower of London Ice Rink really comes alive when the sun goes down on the capital.

Somerset House Ice Rink

From November 16 2012 until January 6, 2013, the Somerset House Ice Rink will be once again opening its icy doors to a more than accepting public.

This annual outdoor ice rink proves to be a firm favourite for London skaters year after year, with more than a million visitors choosing to skate in the atmospheric eighteenth century Somerset House Ice Rink each year.

For an even more memorable skating experience, visit Somerset House after dark when it surrounds its ice rink with flaming torches and cosy lighting, while equally atmospheric music lifts the spirits of the skaters and audience alike. 

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

From November 3 2012, Canada Square Park will be transformed into scenic winter wonderland, with the opening of a huge ice rink. Skating in the shadows of the iconic Canary Wharf towers, this temporary ice rink will provide an exhilarating day out for all the family every day of the week.

As skating can be a thirsty affair, next to the rink will be the Moose Bar, providing warm and heartening drinks and refreshments, including some mouth-watering mulled cider.

And skating can wear you out too! Why not recover with a stay at the Luxury hotel in Chelsea, The Wyndham Grand? Call 020 7823 3000 to make your reservation today.