Skate at Somerset House

Somerset House’s annual ice rink pop-up has long been one of the city’s favourite festive traditions, with thousands of Londoners and tourists alike making it part of their celebrations each year, and for good reason. Gliding (or nervously shuffling) around the rink, gazing upon the surrounding Georgian architecture and the courtyard’s magnificent 40ft Christmas tree feels like you’ve skated onto a movie set, ready to be watched by families settling in for their post-turkey food coma. 

There’s more to this rink than just skating, though. This year's Skate Lates programme is sponsored by Aperol Spritz, who'll have an orange van parked rinkside for refreshments. Soar round the rink to a DJ soundtrack at these night time ice parties. The line-up for 2026 includes community sounds from Netil Radio, ground-shaking bass from UKF and BUMPAH, South Asian creative collective Daytimers, queer Latinx partystarters 2CPERREA, and selections from the team behind Gauchoworld. For the first time ever, there's also a K-Pop party (Nov 23) with a special live set from DY EMKAY.

While you're at Somerset House, don't forget to head indoors for Through Our Eyes, a free group exhibition of works by indigenous Sámi artists, who'll explore their lives in snowy Nordic landscapes using sculpture, photography, video and performance art.

How much does Skate at Somerset House cost?

Ticket prices for Skate at Somerset House vary depending on what time you visit, with cheaper tickets at less popular times, and concessions available for kids. They start at £15 for super off-peak times, reaching £28.50 for the most in-demand slots. Booking for the 2025-2026 goes live on Friday September 25 or you can sign up to the presale here for early access. 

When to visit Skate at Somerset House

Skate at Somerset House predictably tends a to be busiest during weekends, evenings and the days running up to Christmas, hence the elevated ticket prices for these times. For cheaper prices, consider visiting in the morning, as tickets tend to be less expensive before midday.

Find more places to go ice skating in London