With Christmas just around the corner and the festive spirit in the air, you may be looking for something new to do in the holidays or at the weekend. Luckily, there is an incredible amount of activities surrounding the season, one of which is skating. Whether you're new to the ice or an experienced skater, one place that surely will not be disappointing is the beautiful ice rink located in the gorgeous neoclassical courtyard of Somerset House.
Less than a 10 minute walk from Charing Cross station, Somerset House is pretty much at the heart of the city and an easy to get to location. Skate sessions are 60 minutes long and cost from £7.50. There is a bar and a small coffee shop in the grounds, as well as a large Christmas themed Fortnum & Mason shop. The skates provided are of a high quality, however you will need to supply your own socks and gloves to ensure a comfortable skating experience. Beginners younger than 8 are welcome to use the skating aids shaped as penguins and polar bears in a small designated are to become more confident on the ice.
Whether you choose to come at the beginning of the day when the sun is up and the air is fresh and crisp or in the late afternoon when the lights are on and the Christmas tree illuminates the rink is up to you - the venue is beautiful at all times and the rink is maintained in between each session, providing the same experience for everybody throughout the day.
By Adelya Baban, Newstead Wood School
