Discover London's best outdoor ice rinks this winter

Visiting London at this time of year is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. With a number of cheap London hotels it’s a great destination for a last minute holiday to enjoy some Christmas themed activities.

One of the best ways to enjoy Christmas in London is by visiting one of the capital's many ice rinks. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, skating around on the ice in front of the city's most famous attractions is sure to make for a holiday you won't forget!

So, here’s our guide to the top rinks in the capital.

Ice at the Tower

One of the most famous attractions in the city has to be the Tower of London, and while the building is home to the Queen's crown jewels, as well as some interesting historical finds, it is also the sight of the fortress itself that makes for an exciting daytrip.

So, why not head to the open-air ice rink situated outside the citadel on the tower's moat, where you can get some fantastic views of the building?

If you come here at night, you will also be able to see the fort illuminated, which is sure to make for a perfect romantic evening for those who visit with their loved ones.

Skate at Somerset House

Another brilliant place that you might want to bring a date is the ice rink at Somerset House. Here, you will be able to glide outside the famous London attraction, listening to classical music as you skate hand-in-hand with your partner.

You might even stop at the Tiffany Shop near the rink, where you can treat yourself or your loved one to a special Tiffany & Co Christmas present they will cherish forever.

Go sightseeing at the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a must-see attraction for many holidaymakers who visit London, as it is one of the capital's largest and most well-known museums.

However, during the wintertime, it also becomes an ideal location if you want to hop on the ice, as it has a 900 sq m open-air rink situated outside the building until January.

You can make your sightseeing tour even more special by having a go at the fun winter sport while you're here. Or, if you just want to watch and soak up the atmosphere, why not pop to the Cafe Bar and treat yourself to some hot chocolate or mulled wine?

The London Eyeskate

Since it opened to the public in 2000, the London Eye has welcomed tourists from around the world and the UK to hop on the ferris wheel and have a great view of the capital city.

However, the attraction itself has become a London landmark and you could visit if you want to enjoy a day of ice-skating, as it is home to the Eyeskate rink during the festive period.

Should you want to see the London Eye in all its glory, it is worth putting on your skates at night when the wheel is lit up.

Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland

You might, however, want to enjoy ice-skating on London's biggest rink. In this case, you should come to Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, where you'll find the Samsung Galaxy Ice Rink.

Hyde Park is one of the capital's most famous green spaces, so if you come during the festive holidays, you'll see it transformed into a Christmas paradise. Peruse the markets, enjoy a circus show or hop on a fairground ride, in addition to joining the crowds on the ice.

There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing somewhere to skate in London, so why not take your partner or family to one of the rinks and enjoy a unique experience of the capital during the wintertime?

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• ice rinks
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• ice skating
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• london