Twirling around in a pair of ice skates is just so typically festive that we’re getting visions of snow falling and lights gleaming out across the chilly capital. Before we know it, we’ll be queuing up for one of London’s many ice rinks that pop up across the city when the Christmassy season turns up.
So despite the fact that we’re meandering through the year in mid-September, we’re still pretty pleased to hear that one of the mainstay frozen spots in the city for showing those skating moves will be returning this year, as Hampton Court Palace has announced the dates for their majestic setting this winter.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Running from November 22 to January 5, 2025the Hampton Court Palace ice rink will be running throughout the festive season to provide a more regal feel to your pirouettes. It’s a six-week spell of getting in the spirit of trying-not-to-fall-over if you’re a beginner and perfecting those spins if you’ve ‘done this before’… all in a setting that boasts the stunning palace backdrop in the open air. You’ll be skating where Henry VIII once walked in with the knowledge that all this happening in his backyard would have probably irked him. Still, even the most tyrannical of Monarchs should be able to admit it when they see a beautiful Christmas tree, which is exactly what you’ll find – all 26 feet of it – as the centrepiece of the ice.
Skaters will be able to book their time slots soon, and the rink will also be running dedicated quiet and sensory-friendly sessions and discounted tickets for wheelchair users to meet the needs of anyone who wishes to enjoy the rink.
Once you’re done on the rink, you can also head over to the Ice Rink Café and Bar for a post-skate boost in the form of a mince pie or a lovely hot winter beverage.
Tickets to Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink are on sale now, and if you book to skate at Hampton Court Palace on December 2-8you’ll also be giving to a wonderful cause, with 10% of all sales going towards Cash For Kids, who the palace will be partnering with for the Mission Christmas campaign this year.
The ice rink will be back at Hampton Court Palace will be back from November 22 – January 5, 2025. You can book your timeslot here, with adult tickets starting at £18 for a ticket at quiet sessions, £19 for an off-peak ticket, and £21 for a ticket at peak times.
