Your Guide to Ice Skating in Hyde Park, London
What could be better than spending a winter’s day in London, ice skating and making memories? It’s one of the coolest festive activities, combining skill, playful fun, and a stunning setting. But take it a step further during your next trip to London and try ice skating near Hyde Park – one of the trendiest green spaces in the city.
You can find The Cumberland Hotel just steps away from Hyde Park, making us experts on everything going on in our area. We love it in the summer, when it’s bustling with live music and picnics, but we might even love it more in the winter, when the snow comes down and there’s just a little bit of magic. The area has become famous for its winter activities, with Hyde Park Winter Wonderland quickly finding its place as a go-to destination in the colder seasons for both British travellers and international visitors. If the locals love it, it’s got to be on your London vacation bucket list.
But alongside the fairground rides and brisk walks through nature, you can find the best spots for ice skating in London near Hyde Park. Here’s our guide to them and how to enjoy them best.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Around the elaborate decorations and unforgettable rides, you can find the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Built around the Victoria bandstand, the ice rink is a highlight of the festivities and cannot be missed.
What You Need to Know About Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
- The ice rink is open daily during the season from 10 am to 9 pm with booked sessions lasting 45 minutes.
- You’ll need to arrive at the rink 20 minutes before your session starts to get ready for the ice.
- There are no height restrictions, but there are age restrictions. The rink is open to anyone older than 3 with children between 3 and 12 needing to be accompanied by an adult. Penguins are available to help children on the ice, but they can only be used by kids under a metre tall – although we do wish we could use them too!
- The ice rink is open in all weather, which means you might get a little cold and a little wet. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring extra socks!
- Hire skates are included in your ticket price, but if you’ve got your own, you can bring them.
- Wheelchairs are allowed on the ice, but make sure that if you’re bringing an electric wheelchair, your motors are off.
- Cameras and mobile phones are not allowed on the ice, but if you’d like a snapshot you can treasure forever, there is a professional photographer to take pictures of the skaters.
Tickets are priced between £8.50 and £17.50 based on age and peak times, and you can book your tickets now to reserve your spot on the ice. Explore the Winter Wonderland website to find out more about the ice rink and dos and don’ts on the ice, including where you can stash your bag so you can glide without worries. Head to their website here.
What is Hyde Park Winter Wonderland?
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is London’s biggest annual Christmas event, spanning the central park and drawing in tourists from all over the globe. From mid-November to early January, you can make the most of the city’s festive cheer and enjoy seasonal entertainment, live music, fairground rides, and even a Christmas market.
It started as an open-air market (like you’ll find throughout London in the festive season) but soon grew and added more and more attractions that make it the unique event it is now. It takes place from mid-Novemberr to January, so whether you’re visiting to grab your Christmas shopping or gabbing the last of the season before celebrating New Year’s Eve in London with a bang, you’re just in time to catch the magic. In 2025, you’ll find a Santa’s Grotto and a bespoke lighting installation, but every year you’ll be able to hit the ice on the iconic ice rink.
Where can I eat at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland?
After hitting the ice, you might be up for a snack. You’re in luck at this festive attraction with plenty of food stalls, bars, and even a street food village with cuisines from all over the world, helping you fuel up and warm up.
What rides are at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland?
Whether you’re spending a day with your family or making memories with a date, there are rides for everyone at Winter Wonderland. It’s not Disneyland, but it’s got a festive charm that might rival the iconic theme park funhouses, rollercoasters, and even a traditional wave swinger that just oozes nostalgia.
How do I get tickets to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park?
You have to purchase an entry ticket to get into Winter Wonderland, but to take part in all the fun, you’ll also need ride passes and show tickets. The cheapest and most convenient option, so you can forget the details and just enjoy your time, is to get a package. There’s a wide range of packages and passes available, so make sure you choose the right option for you and prepare ahead of time. You can explore tickets and buy yours on their website here.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
Just one tube ride away from Hyde Park, you can find London’s most famous indoor ice rink in Canary Wharf. Nestled in the financial district and the skyscrapers that London is quickly becoming known for, is the best way to spend a festive day with your family. In 2025, the ice rink will have been expanded, so you’ll have more room to show off your tricks and moves. Plus, they have a new refreshment area so you can watch as the skaters glide by and warm up with a classic hot chocolate.
Looking for the ultimate date destination in Central London this winter? The Oasis Bar and Terrace lets you enjoy stunning views of the London skyline and feel like the rockstar you are. They even have house DJs every Thursday and Saturday, so you can let loose after your time on the ice. Reserve your spot today for a night you’re not likely to forget any time soon.
You can grab your tickets now for your skate session with skate hire included on the Canary Wharf Ice Rink website.
Alexandra Palace Ice Rink
Further out from the city, but just as iconic, is the Alexandra Palace Ice Rink. It’s a classic choice, not just for tourists looking to celebrate Christmas in London, but for locals too. It’s previously been voted the number one ice rink in the UK and welcomes thousands of skaters every year.
They offer more than just skate sessions, with parties, hockey games, and even film screenings at the location, making it a must-visit London attraction. Their general skate sessions are open to skaters of all levels, but if you’re looking for a little more guidance, then you’re in luck. Alexandra Palace offers skating lessons for both children and adults, like their coffee morning drop-in (just £13). You can explore their full list of skating classes and groups here.
It’s also one of the cheapest skating rinks in London, with children’s prices starting from £7.50 per session and adult prices starting from just £9.50.
Other Ice Skating Rinks in London
With many rinks being open year-round and others popping up in famous London locations and landmarks for the festive season, you’ll never be far from an ice skating rink in London near Hyde Park. If you’re travelling for your cosy hotel room at The Cumberland Hotel, all you need to do is hop on the tube or a classic red bus and find your way to the ice.
Here are other options for your London skating adventures:
- Queen London – Explore London’s all-year-round indoor skating rink here.
- Glide at Battersea Power Station – Tickets are now open for their 2025 skating rink, and you can lock in your slot today.
- Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink – Experience this classically British skating spot. Find out more on their website.
Our Top Tips for Ice Skating in London
- Ice skating should be comfortable. If you find your shoes are causing you lots of pain and discomfort, then talk to the hire team about finding the right size for you! Make sure you’re lacing them up properly and you’re wearing thick socks underneath.
- Dress for warmth. While not all ice skating rinks nearHyde Park are outdoors, the temperatures required to keep the ice cold can often also lead to a chill. You need to dress for the temperature, which might mean packing an extra pair of gloves. If you’re skating outdoors a warm coat might be advised.
- Bring an extra pair of socks. The temperature, exercise, and proximity to ice can lead to your feet getting a little wet, which could ruin the rest of your perfect festive London day. Make sure you’re comfortable enough to tick off all the other must-see sights on your London festive bucket list and bring spares so you can be dry and warm all day long.
- Book your tickets in advance. Many festive skate sessions can be popular with tourists and locals flocking to the sites this time of year. If you want to secure your slot and make sure you won’t miss out on the fun, then you should plan ahead of time and book your ticket in advance.
- Always follow the rules of the skate rink. While ice skating can be very fun, it can also pose some risks – especially when you have large groups of people and children involved. Make sure you follow the rules of the rink and you’re taking care of yourselves and others so you don’t ruin anyone’s good time!
- Laugh off mistakes. If it’s your first time (or your fifth time) ice skating, then you’re likely to fall over at least once. It’s all a part of the experience, so don’t worry too much. You can practice falling beforehand if you want to make sure you’re staying safe on the ice. The Ice Rink at Westfield London has a blog for first-time skaters if you’re interested in reading up before heading out. Read it here.
Enjoying the Festive Feels in Hyde Park after Skating
The fun doesn’t have to end when you get off the ice. There’s so much to do in London to celebrate the winter season. Christmas in London is truly one of the magical times, so make sure you plan a fun-packed day to make the most of it.
Why not grab a fuelling breakfast at The Cumberland Hotel before heading to explore Hyde Park Winter Wonderland? After a skate in the ice rink, you can warm up in a charming British pub with some hot chocolate or cider. Explore this list for the best cosy pubs in London or browse the pubs with open fires from the Nudge.
A Christmas dinner or Sunday roast is the perfect way to round off your day ice skating in London before you curl up in the peaceful retreat of your hotel room.
Stay steps from Hyde Park with The Cumberland Hotel
Our London hotel is nestled between Marble Arch and Hyde Park, making it the perfect place to return to after a busy day exploring London and all the festive fun it has to offer. With hotel rooms stocked with everything you need for a convenient stay, a bar, and incredible dining options, there’s no better choice for your next winter trip to London. Book your stay today and start strapping up your ice skates.
