3. SKATE AND SIGHTSEE

Stately architecture provides the perfect backdrop for some of Britain’s best rinks

SOMERSET HOUSE,

THE STRAND

Skating in the courtyard of Somerset House is like being

cocooned in a Christmas bubble. With a 40-foot tree and Hotel Chocolat-supplied treats, it’s a staple of the festive calendar for good reason. From 17 November 2021 – 16 January 2022 (somersethouse.org.uk).

THE ROYAL PAVILION,

BRIGHTON

Visit for the interiors, stay for a spin on the ice. Brighton’s Regency palace is host to the UK’s only Christmas ice rink

powered wholly by green energy – a stone’s throw from North Laine’s independent shops. From 30 October 2021 – 9 January 2022 (royalpavilionicerink.co.uk).

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, SOUTH

KENSINGTON

This season is a swansong for the much-loved rink, which will melt in January to make

way for a five-acre urban garden. Don’t miss your last chance to skate in front of the Romanesque building. From 22 October 2021 – 16 January

2022 (nhmskating.com).

QUEEN’S HOUSE,

GREENWICH

There are few opportunities to skate in the shadow of a formal royal residence, and fewer still at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views across to Canary Wharf provide some unconventional

festive sparkle. From 18 November 2021 – 9 January

2022 (rmg.co.uk).

Somerset House is transformed into a winter wonderland for the festive season