Skate at Somerset House with Virgin Atlantic Holidays
Set within a historic 18th-century courtyard, visitors can ice skate beneath a spectacular 40ft Christmas tree in the heart of London. Off the ice, guests can enjoy rinkside views from the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, browse seasonal gifts at the Shelter Boutique, and warm up with hot chocolate and alpine-inspired dishes like raclette.
See more other Christmas activities near London
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Adults £13–£28.50; children £11–£15; £1.50 fee per ticket. The page also says skating tickets start from £11. Entry to the site is free, but a ticket is required to skate.
Food & Drink
The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia serves raclette and alpine-inspired dishes, while courtyard huts offer hot chocolate, German hot dogs, sweet treats and other seasonal favourites.
Parking
There is no on-site parking; the page recommends travelling by public transport.
Accessibility
Wheelchair users are welcome at all skating sessions, with dedicated wheelchair sessions and reduced-capacity Relaxed Sessions also available.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book skating tickets ahead, as Skate School and Kids Skate Club are described as annual sell-outs.
- Bring children who need extra support to the skate-aid provision, which is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Use the Relaxed Sessions for reduced capacity and lower music levels, or call ahead when booking a wheelchair session.
- Travel by public transport because there is no on-site parking; Temple station is a two-minute walk away.
- Consider a pre-book dining and drinks package if you want to secure a meal and drinks during your visit.
Special Events & Promotions
- Entry to the site is free; skating requires a ticket.
- Automatic discounts apply to qualifying group bookings.
- Concession tickets are available for full-time students, NHS staff and PIP recipients.
- Newsletter subscribers get an exclusive presale before general ticket sales.
- Skate Lates feature DJ sets on selected evenings.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can skate at Somerset House?
Skaters of all ages and abilities are welcome. Skate School offers lessons for adults and teens, and the Kids' Club is for children aged 6 to 12.
Do I need a ticket if I only want to visit the courtyard?
No. Entry to the site is free; you need a ticket only to skate.
What food and drink is available?
The Chalet serves raclette and alpine-inspired dishes, while courtyard huts offer hot chocolate, German hot dogs, sweet treats and other food. Pre-book dining and drinks packages are available.
Are there calmer or wheelchair-accessible skating sessions?
Relaxed sessions have reduced capacity and lower music levels. Wheelchair users are welcome at all sessions, with dedicated wheelchair sessions throughout the season; call 0343 208 1497 when booking with a wheelchair.
How can I get to the rink, and is there parking?
Nearby stations include Temple, Covent Garden, Charing Cross and Embankment, and buses stop close by on the Strand and Aldwych. There is no on-site parking.
Browse Christmas in London
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.