There’s nothing more festive than ice skating a pop-up rink in London to get you in the Christmas spirit.
With endless options of Christmasfied ice rinks to pick from in the capitol, it’s overwhelming and difficult to choose which one to glide your skates along.
With Christmas being a time to give, one option is Somerset House– where as a charity, they use the income from their ice skating to support their cultural programmes throughout the year.
As the home of cultural innovators, Somerset House connects creativity and the arts with wider society, bringing worlds and minds together to intensify creativity and multiply opportunity.
Somerset House is an entirely-self funded charity.
They do not receive any regular public funding and so rely on charitable donations and income, with ice skating being a top runner.
This year, Somerset House has partnered with Switzerland Tourism to transform the 16th century house’s courtyard into a Swiss winter wonderland.
Upon entering the courtyard visitors are transported into what would seem like a christmas movie.
A picture perfect forty foot christmas tree draws attention away from the stunning architecture of Somerset House- a task one may think is impossible, however easily achieved with thanks to Swiss International Air Lines.
Somerset House’s ice rink is one of elegance with stunning 360 views promising a perfect background to your group skating pictures.
From views of the house to a forty foot christmas tree and a Skate Lounge transformed by Whispering Angel the rink doesn’t disappoint.
Festive activities are also available on and off the ice, including coaching sessions with National Ice Skate Association instructors, known as Skate School.
There is also a Kids Club session running for children aged 6-10, allowing them to take their first glide on the ice in a safe, fun and friendly environment supported by skate stabilisers and experienced skate marshals.
Groups of 4-15 people are able to book sessions with a Skate Mate to provide support and guidance on the ice.
The rink is also open to wheelchair users across all ice skating sessions.
Those looking to stay on non-slippy land can unwind in chic apres-skate heaven – the Skate Lounge, which this year has been transformed in a pink hue by Whispering Angel.
Visitors can enjoy a warming glass of Mulled Angel Rose as well as a new twist on classic cocktails, including Angels Margarita and Rose Negroni.
For those in search of a last minute gift Somerset House have you covered.
Shelter Boutique brought to you by HSBC UK will be hosting a pop-up store on site until Christmas Eve.
The store hosts an array of handpicked pre-loved vintage, designer and quality high street clothing brands and gifts. All profits support Shelters work to build a fairer housing system.
Skate ticket prices range from £10-£25 for adults and £8-£13 for children, last skating day is 14th January 2024.
Bookings can be done through their website.
