The grand 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House makes for a spectacular backdrop for one of the most popular ice rink's in town. Skating around under the Tiffany-decorated 40-foot Christmas tree with a hot toddy to keep out winter chills is one of London's most appealing winter rituals - and a superb way to ease yourself into the festive spirit. Just be sure to watch out for the seven-year-old whizz kids skating backwards past you and pulling of a special Somerset Salchow. If you have young ones in tow, families can enjoy Breakfast with Tiffany (geddit?) early morning skate sessions throughout December from 8.45am. Alternatively, there are Late Skate and DJ Nights from 8pm on Fridays in November and January - and lessons for beginners. Even if you don't feel like braving the ice it's a great spectator sport and the Skate Café & Bar makes a mean hot chocolate. For sweet-toothed shopaholics with a penchant for diamonds, the adjacent Tiffany Tuck shop sells a selection of jewellery, cupcakes and other treats. Now in its 10th year, ice skating at Somerset House is "one of the great sights of a London winter… a wonderful place to be". (The Times)
Skate At Somerset House
Somerset House, WC2R 1LA
17th November 2009 - 24th January 2010
The grand 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House makes for a spectacular... More
Somerset House
Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA
Gallery and former Tudor palace
Now a magnificent 18th century art gallery housing the celebrated Courtauld Institute Gallery and the ... More
The Gilbert Collection
Victoria and Albert Museum, SW7 2RL
June 2009
Following the closure of The Gilbert Collection at Somerset House on 27th January 2008, it... More
London's Christmas Ice Rinks
Various locations across London
14th November 2009 - 10th January 2010
The city gets its skates on in winter with many of the capital's most... More
The River Terrace Cafe at Somerset House
Strand, WC2R 1LA
Sun traps, river breezes and 18th-century grandeur off the Strand
This riverside cafe commands wonderful views of the... More
You're familiar with the egg and spoon race. Well how about the Christmas Pudding Race? Covent Garden Piazza swells with spectators as about 150 contestants ...More
Comedienne Sandi Toksvig hosts a seasonal Christmas Cracker at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall, a fun filled variety show featuring special guests including Ronnie ...More
The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court at Somerset House is always a favourite with kids. These jets of water are especially popular when they provide ...More
Standing alongside A Streetcar Named Desire as one of Tennessee Williams' timelessly exquisite (and Pulitzer Prize-winning) plays, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof follows hot ...More
Just off the Embankment and overlooking the River Thames, this highly rated hotel is close to Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square and the South Bank. Premium ... More
Courtauld Institute of Art,
Somerset House,Covent Garden,
London,
WC2RMap
Manet's 'Bar at the Folies-Bergeres', Van Gogh's 'Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear' and Renoir's 'La Loge' are just a few of the celebrated artworks displayed ... More
Somerset House, once the site of a spectacular Tudor palace, now includes a magnificent 18th century art gallery housing celebrated collections belonging to the Courtauld Institute ... More
In the evenings, approach this restaurant through the fountained courtyard of Somerset House to get yourself in the mood for a magical meal. The Admiralty ... More
This riverside cafe commands wonderful views of the Thames from outside the 18th-century Somerset House. Large sunshades shield customers from the sun's reflective glare, while ... More
The Courtauld is one of the most prestigious art schools in the country, affiliated with the Oxbridge system and boasting a huge private location and ... More
Imperial College London is the foremost medical training faculty in the country but for non-medical graduates wishing for a change of career, King’s is the ... More
This day spa exclusively for women is a total pampering experience from the minute you step through the door. Located in bustling Covent Garden you'll ... More
Before it was a hip private members' club designed specifically for the creative industries - complete with bar and dining rooms, cinema, TV and recording ... More
Overlooking Covent Garden Piazza, the Cove is a world away from the crowds outside. Tucked up in a worn, leather armchair under the pub’s low, ... More
Courtauld Institute of Art,
Somerset House,Strand,Covent Garden,
London,
WC2RMap
The Courtauld Institute Gallery houses wonderful Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections. Manet's 'Bar at the Folies-Bergeres', Van Gogh's 'Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear' and Renoir's 'La ...More
Get the FREE monthly guide to London entertainment, arts, concerts, sport, book signings, and essential event information delivered directly to your inbox.
LondonTown.com has special discounts every week. The amount of discount will vary depending on the dates you are coming and how far in advance you book. All discounts are subject to availability.
Show favourites only
Report a bug, make a suggestion or just tell us your thoughts.
The grand 18th-century courtyard of 
