There are some places you just can’t forget. Enchanting places where the soul of Christmas seems to dwell. Among Europe’s capital cities, London is undeniably one of the most magical destinations for the festive season. This year, England’s capital boasts not one, not two, but three majestic ice rinks, ranked among the most popular in Europe. In fact, a study analyzed 75 rinks across Europe, and the Skate at Somerset House came out on top, ahead of rinks in Austria and Germany. It has to be said that this 900 m² natural ice rink is absolutely magnificent.
Europe’s most popular skating rink is 2 hours from Paris.
Nestled in the courtyard of neoclassical Somerset House , this sublime ice rink will immediately immerse you in the magical atmosphere of Christmas. At the foot of its 12-metre-high illuminated tree, it has been brightening the hearts of Londoners and visitors alike for 25 years. Beyond its enchanting charm, the rink boasts a festive program, where you can skate to groovy music after dark and sip excellent cocktails.
For those who are not very comfortable on skates, learning sessions are regularly organized. And as if that weren’t enough to keep us happy, you can enjoy hot drinks and comfort food in the surrounding chalets: hot chocolates, cookies and other seasonal delights!
France only ranked 8th
While London occupies the top three places in the rankings, France is scarcely represented. In fact, the French skating rink , Bordeaux en Plein Air, comes in 8th place. It’s a shame, when you consider that Paris has some magnificent skating rinks, such as the one at the Grand Palais or the one nestled in the Marché de la Villette. In any case, this magnificent London ice rink deserves its first place. Discover the rest of the ranking :
- Skating at Somerset House – London
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – London
- Vienna Ice World (Wiener Eistraum lake) – Vienna
- EisArena – Hamburg
- City Park ice rink and boat – Budapest
- Gliding at Battersea Power Station – London
- Weissensee lake – Weissensee
- Outdoor ice rink – Bordeaux
- Place Kelber Christmas Market Ice Rink – Strasbourg
- Ice*Amsterdam (Rijksmuseum) – Amsterdam