Skate at Somerset House with Virgin Atlantic Holidays
Skate at Somerset House with Virgin Atlantic Holidays returns from 11 November 2026 to 10 January 2027.
Set within our historic 18th-century courtyard, enjoy skating beneath a spectacular 40ft Christmas tree, festive food and drink, and unique seasonal shopping.
With tickets from £11, discover one of London’s most iconic festive experiences.
Tickets available from Fri 25 Sep at 10am
| Dates | 11 Nov 2026–10 Jan 2027 |
| Space | Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court |
| Price | Adults £13 - £28.50, Children £11 - £17 (+ fee of £1.50 per ticket) Concessions available on select dates and times |
A Christmas Outing the Whole Family Will Remember
Skate at Somerset House with Virgin Atlantic Holidays welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities, from wobbly first-timers to confident young racers. Throughout the season, Skate School and Kids Skate Club offer expert-led lessons for adults and children looking to build confidence on the ice. Skate aids will be available for children who need a little extra support finding their feet on a first come first serve basis. Families can enjoy even greater value, with an automatic discount applied to qualifying group bookings, alongside concession tickets for eligible visitors including full-time students, NHS staff and PIP recipients.
For neurodiverse visitors and those with additional needs, our Relaxed Sessions provide a calmer environment with reduced capacity and lower music levels. Wheelchair users are welcome at all sessions, we also have dedicated wheelchair sessions available throughout the season, if you are booking with a wheelchair please call us on 0343 208 1497.
Whether it's your first visit or a festive tradition you return to year after year, Skate at Somerset House with Virgin Atlantic Holidays offers a magical day out in the heart of London, combining skating, seasonal treats and unforgettable festive moments in one iconic destination.When it's time to warm up, gather beneath the glow of our magnificent 40ft Christmas tree and enjoy hearty seasonal dishes at The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia, alongside hot chocolate, sweet treats and family-friendly favourites from our courtyard cafés.
Central London Ice Skating for Friends, Dates and After Work
Once the sun goes down, Skate becomes one of London's best excuses to get out with friends, meet someone new or simply swap the pub for something a bit more memorable. Skate Lates brings resident DJs and touring acts to the rink for late evening sessions, this year featuring sets from the likes of QTIPOC-led bass collective BUMPAH and youth culture platform Gauchoworld for the first time. We're also bringing K-Pop bops to the ice for the first time in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Centre UK (KCCUK). For a slower pace, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse offers rinkside views, a glass of something warming and a spot to catch your breath between laps.
Set in Somerset House's 18th century courtyard, right by Covent Garden and Embankment, it is a short walk from the office or a quick trip across town, which makes it an easy choice for an after work catch up or a date night, without leaving central London. Bring a small group, bring a friend, or come on your own and let the atmosphere do the rest. Either way, it is one of the best things to do in London this winter.
Food and Drink at Skate
Between sessions on the ice, there is a whole spread of festive food and drink to explore around the courtyard, whether you are grabbing something on the move or settling in for a longer break.
Hospitality Packages at Skate
Looking for something a little more special? Reserve a private table with drink tokens and a spread of gourmet food, perfect for marking an occasion with colleagues or a group of friends. For larger groups, private and corporate hire is also available, including the option to book the entire rink for an evening to remember.
Getting to Skate at Somerset House, The Strand
Somerset House sits on the Strand, right in the heart of central London. The nearest stations are Temple (2 minute walk), Covent Garden (8 minute walk), Charing Cross (8 minute walk) and Embankment (8 minute walk), with regular bus routes also stopping close by on the Strand and Aldwych. There is no on-site parking, so we always recommend travelling by public transport.
Address: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA
Skate at a Glance
When does Skate at Somerset House run?
Skate returns from 11 November 2026 to 10 January 2027, transforming the historic courtyard into Somerset House's festive centrepiece for the season.
How much do tickets cost?
Ice skating tickets start from £11 up to £28.50. Tickets go on general sale on Friday 25 September, with an exclusive pre-sale available to newsletter subscribers ahead of the public on-sale date.
Do I need a ticket to visit Skate?
No, entry to the site is free for everyone. You can soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the festive dining and browse the gift shop without a ticket. A ticket is only required if you want to skate.
Can I book skating lessons?
Yes. Skate School runs every weekend morning for adults and teens, coached by the team behind Team GB's future skating stars. There is also a dedicated Kids' Club for children aged 6 to 12.
Is Skate accessible for everyone?
Yes. Reduced-capacity Relaxed sessions and dedicated wheelchair skating sessions are both part of the programme, so every visitor can enjoy time on the ice.
What food and drink is available?
The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia returns with its signature raclette and alpine-inspired dishes, alongside Huts by Jimmy Garcia for winter warmers on the go, including hot chocolate and German hot dogs, pre-book dining and drinks packages to secure at a special rate.
The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is also free to enter for rink-side drinks and treats, whether you're skating or watching.
What is Skate Lates?
Skate Lates brings DJ sets and a party atmosphere to selected evenings.
Is there anywhere to shop for gifts?
Yes, the Shelter Boutique, brought to you by HSBC UK, is a pop-up shop on-site with a curated selection of fashion and lifestyle brands, with proceeds supporting Shelter's work with people facing homelessness.
Headline Partner

Shelter Boutique Partner
