Ice Skating and Ice Rinks 2008 / 2009

Somerset House, The Strand, London, WC1R 1LA (Tube: Temple (not Sundays), Charing Cross, Holborn or Covent Garden)
London's original and most beautiful open-air ice rink returns to the courtyard at Somerset House, located just off The Strand within easy reach of Covent Garden and 'Theatreland'. Whether you're an able skater or an absolute beginner The Skate At Somerset House Ice Rink is the essential winter experience. During the daytime you skate in the spectacular setting of the 18th century courtyard then, as darkness falls, the rink is transformed with flaming torches and architectural lighting to become London's most glamourous night-time destination. Both skaters and non-skaters are welcome at the Ice Bar. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Hyde Park, London (Underground: Marble Arch)
Set between Hyde Park Corner and the Serpentine in Hyde Park, The Winter Wonderland Ice Skating Rink promises to be the ultimate Christmas experience for family and friends. The Winter Wonderland site will feature London's largest outdoor ice rink, numerous cafes and bars, and an incredible giant observation wheel - with a full 360° panoramic view 200 feet above Hyde Park, the Winter Wonderland Wheel offers the chance to view Hyde Park and London from a very different perspective. Up to six people will be able to fit into each of the wheel's 40 pods for the approximately 13 minute ride. In addition the Haunted House promises to offer even more frights than last year, whilst the toboggan run is set to be longer and faster, so hang onto your hats! There will be well loved traditional rides for children such carousels and a helter skelter, as well as attractions for more adventurous youngsters such as the Reindeer Express, Cups and Saucers and the Wonderland Ride. Added to this are an enormous Wave Swinger, a Sleigh Ride, simulators and numerous more which will offer festive thrills for everyone. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy tickets online

Once again The Natural History Museum is set to open London's most spectacular winter attraction this year - a stunning outdoor Ice Rink and traditional Christmas Fair. The 1,000 square metre outdoor ice skating rink, with 75,000 Christmas lights in the surrounding trees, is sure to be one of the most impressive outdoor rink in London. Overlooking the Ice Rink will be a spectacular two-tier viewing area with a cafe bar. The cafe bar will serve a delicious winter menu and give spectators and skaters a chance to unwind in the fully licensed bar. The Christmas Fair, Cafe Bar and viewing platform are open to non-skaters and do not require a ticket. Please Note: The Christmas Fair is open from 20 November 2007 until 6 January 2008 and is closed on Mondays and open on Christmas Eve. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Nearly 940 years after William the Conqueror founded the building, the Tower of London will be host to a magnificent open-air real-ice rink situated in the dry moat beneath the North wall of the Tower of London. Sure to be an amzing experience - don't miss out. Overlooking the Tower of London rink will be theCafé Ice which will be offering a seasonal selection of 'winter warmers' including mulled wine and hot chocolate for those wanting to relax after their skate or watch others take to the ice. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London (Tube: Canary Wharf, Docklands Light Railway: Canary Wharf Tower)
The Canary Wharf Ice Rink will be located in Canada Square Park, which is surrounded by Canary Wharf's famous towers. This season will boast a larger rink and an Alpine Café with an "Eisbar". Yes a cool contemporary bar made out of ice! Brand new sharpened skates are included in the price. Come and enjoy an office outing with friends or a family get together. The offering will be complete with festive food and drink to cater to your every need. Access is easy on the Jubilee Line Canary Wharf Station. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

The London Piazza at The O2, Greenwich, London, SE10 0DX (Underground: North Greenwich)
Visitors to The Slopes at The O2 will be able to ski, snowboard or snow tube at The O2, making it THE London winter attraction. Please note that this is a SKING event, NOT ice skating! The twin slopes, both 45 metres in length will bring the whole skiing experience even closer to the people of London. Not only will visitors be able to learn to ski or snowboard but The Slopes will be open to experienced skiers to warm up their ski/snowboard legs before heading to the mountains. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, the more adventurous mountain person will be able to try out the snow tubes. These inflatable sledges are perfect for everyone whether you like spinning, sliding or just sledging. With the whole of the London Piazza themed like a winter resort, The Slopes, along with real snow covered trees and chalet will help create the perfect day out this winter. A trip to The Slopes could also be combined with a visit to one of The O2’s 26 bars and restaurants, a show in The O2 arena or indigO2, or to see a film at the 11 screen Vue cinema. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Set within the magical grounds of the Temperate House, Kew Gardens welcomes friends and family to experience the fun and exhilaration of outdoor skating. With spectacular views and a truly magical atmosphere, skating at Kew has become a 'must do' Christmas treat for all. The Café Ice, overlooking the rink, will be serving a festive selection of 'winter warmers'. From luxurious hot chocolates to warming mulled wine - there will be something for everyone to enjoy! To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU (Train: Hampton Court, from London Waterloo or Wimbledon)
For a spectacular Christmas experience, skate at Hampton Court Palace. Grab a hat, gloves and scarf as ice skating returns! The real ice rink will be located on the banks of the River Thames with the truly splendid backdrop of Hampton Court Palace. The Ice Café alongside the rink will be serving warming drinks and festive snacks for those wanting to take it easy and relax after their skate or to watch family, friends and colleagues. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Southampton City Ice Rink, Civic Centre, Southampton, SO14 7LY
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Civic Centre in the heart of the city, the Southampton City Ice Rink will provide an opportunity for people to glide on a real ice rink this winter and will form the centrepiece of the city's Christmas celebrations. The 20 x 30 metre ice rink has a capacity of 200 skaters at any one time. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online

Royal Dublin Society, Merion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, Ireland
Skate on the huge Covered Outdoor Ice Rink – one of the biggest in Europe! After skating why not enjoy a relaxing time in the Cosy Café with tasty treats and hot beverages. This year there is also an expanded viewing area for those who prefer to sit back and relax. To book: Telephone 0844 847 1722 or click here to buy online