Skate at Somerset House: The Ultimate 2025/2026 Mega-Guide

Skate at Somerset House 2025/2026 is the grand finale of the ice rink’s 25th anniversary year. Running from November 12, 2025, to January 11, 2026, the event features a 900-square-meter rink in a stunning Neoclassical courtyard. Key highlights for this season include a bold artistic commission by Harold Offeh, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse with rink-side views, and a curated DJ lineup for Skate Lates. Dining options feature The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia and Blondies Kitchen. Tickets range from £11 to £26.50, with sessions for all levels, including Skate School and accessible “Chilled Out” slots.

Introduction: London’s Most Iconic Winter Tradition

Since its inception in 2000, Skate at Somerset House has evolved from a simple seasonal pop-up into a global cultural phenomenon. Nestled within the grandeur of the 18th-century courtyard on the Strand, it offers an experience that blends high-art aesthetics with festive joy.

As we enter the final weeks of the 2025/2026 season, the atmosphere is at its peak. This year is particularly special, serving as the celebratory conclusion to a quarter-century of skating history. Whether you are a seasoned pro gliding under the 40-foot Christmas tree or a novice gripping the handrail, Somerset House provides a cinematic backdrop that no other London rink can match.

1. Key Dates, Times, and Ticketing (2025/2026)

Essential Timing

• Season Dates: November 12, 2025 – January 11, 2026.
• Operating Hours: Generally 09:00 to 22:00 daily (with sessions starting every hour).
• Late Sessions: On selected dates, “Skate Lates” run until 22:45.

Ticket Pricing Breakdown

Somerset House uses a tiered pricing model based on demand. Early morning and weekday sessions are significantly cheaper.

Pro Tip: A one-off transaction fee of £2.95 applies per order. Booking online in advance is essential as most evening and weekend slots sell out weeks ahead.

2. Artistic Innovation: The Harold Offeh Commission

As part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations, Somerset House commissioned artist Harold Offeh to transform the rink into a “shared canvas.”

Offeh’s project, titled “Creating Patterns,” explores the relationship between movement and visual art. Skaters are encouraged to think of their blades as pens and the ice as paper. The rink’s branding and visual cues this year are inspired by the marks left by skaters—turns, glides, and stops—turning the entire experience into a living, breathing performance piece.

3. Skate Lates with Aperol Spritz

When the sun sets, the energy at Somerset House shifts. Skate Lates are the rink’s signature evening takeovers, featuring a high-octane atmosphere and live DJ sets curated by some of London’s most influential music platforms.

2025/2026 Lineup Highlights:

• Foundation FM: The female-led radio station bringing garage and house vibes.
• Ruf Dug: NTS Radio legend known for eclectic, tropical-infused beats.
• Sue Veneers: A queer dance collective that brings a high-energy, inclusive party atmosphere.
• DJ Shortee Blitz: A special set celebrating the Jennie Baptiste: Rhythm & Roots exhibition.

The rink-side decks are powered by Aperol Spritz, ensuring the music is as vibrant as the orange-hued cocktails being served in the lounge.

4. Gastronomy: Alpine Flavors and Sweet Treats

No skating session is complete without the “après-skate” experience. This year’s culinary lineup is the most diverse yet.

The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia

Inspired by the Swiss Alps, The Chalet is the primary dining destination.

• Signature Dish: Traditional cheese fondue and raclette.
• Special Offer: Skate ticket holders often receive a complimentary hot chocolate or mulled wine when booking a full raclette meal.
• Atmosphere: Think wood-fired scents, cozy blankets, and candlelit tables.

Blondies Kitchen

Joining the lineup for the first time in 2025, Blondies Kitchen has taken London by storm with its cookie-based treats.

• Must-Try: The Mince Pie Cookie Cups—a seasonal fusion that has become the viral snack of the season.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

For those looking for a touch of luxury, the Clubhouse offers prime views of the rink with a cocktail menu inspired by Virgin’s global destinations.

5. Shopping: The Shelter Boutique (HSBC UK)

Located on-site until late December (and often extended for sales), the Shelter Boutique is a pop-up charity store like no other.

• The Collection: A curated selection of pre-loved designer and vintage clothing.
• Brand Partners: High-end donations from brands like Oliver Bonas, AllSaints, and Nobody’s Child.
• Impact: All profits go directly to Shelter’s work in building a fairer housing system in the UK.

6. Learning to Skate: Skate School & Kids’ Club

Somerset House is renowned for its inclusivity. Whether you are five or fifty, there is a path to mastery.

• Skate School: Daytime coaching sessions led by NISA-accredited instructors. These are 45-minute lessons that focus on balance and basic movement.
• Kids’ Skate Club: Dedicated sessions for children aged 6-12, providing a safe, less crowded environment to build confidence.
• Skate Mates: For £35, you can book a dedicated ice marshal to assist a group of 4-15 people.

7. Accessibility and “Chilled Out” Sessions

Somerset House prides itself on being “London’s most inclusive rink.”

• Wheelchair Access: The rink is fully accessible to wheelchair users during all public sessions.
• Chilled Out Sessions: These sessions run at a significantly reduced capacity with lower lighting and quieter music, designed for those who prefer a more tranquil environment or have sensory sensitivities.

8. Historical Deep Dive: The Courtyard and Architecture

To truly appreciate “Skate,” one must understand the history of the building surrounding the ice.

The Tudor Origins

The original Somerset House was a palatial Tudor mansion built for Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, in 1547. It was a site of royal residence for centuries, housing queens like Catherine of Braganza.+1

Sir William Chambers’ Vision

The current Neoclassical structure was designed by Sir William Chambers and begun in 1776. It was built to house government offices, including the Navy Board and the Inland Revenue. The courtyard where we skate today was once the beating heart of British administrative power.

The 20th Century Rebirth

For decades, the courtyard was a car park for civil servants. In 2000, as part of a major renovation, the courtyard was opened to the public, the iconic fountains were installed, and the first winter ice rink was launched, forever changing London’s winter skyline.

9. Planning Your Visit: Logistics and Pro-Tips

Getting There

• Tube: Temple (District/Circle), Covent Garden (Piccadilly), Charing Cross (Bakerloo/Northern), and Waterloo (Jubilee/Northern/Bakerloo).
• Bus: Routes 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, 521.

Best Times for Photos

For the perfect “Instagrammable” shot, aim for the 4:00 PM session. You get the “blue hour” transition where the building is illuminated against a darkening sky, and the Christmas tree lights pop with maximum clarity.

Nearby Attractions

• The Courtauld Gallery: Located within Somerset House, home to masterpieces by Van Gogh and Manet.
• Covent Garden: A 5-minute walk away for post-skate shopping.
• Southbank Centre: Just across Waterloo Bridge for the Christmas Market.

10. Summary Checklist for Skaters

Check the Exhibition: Your Skate ticket often gives you discounts to on-site exhibitions like Wayne McGregor: Infinite Bodies.

Book in Advance: Slots are limited.

Arrive Early: At least 20-30 minutes before your session to clear security and exchange shoes.

Dress Warmly: But wear layers; you’ll heat up quickly once you start moving!

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the exact dates for the 2025/2026 season?

The rink is open from Wednesday, November 12, 2025, to Sunday, January 11, 2026. The only day the entire site is closed is Christmas Day (December 25).

2. How long does a skating session last?

Each session lasts 45 minutes. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your start time to allow for security checks, bag storage, and skate fitting. If you arrive late, you can still join the ice, but your session cannot be extended.

3. What is the “Chilled Out” session?

New for the 2025/2026 anniversary season, these sessions are designed for those who prefer a quieter environment. The capacity is reduced, the music is lowered, and the lighting is kept consistent (no strobes) to accommodate skaters with sensory sensitivities or those who simply want a more relaxed experience.

4. Are there age or height restrictions for children?

There is no strict height limit, but the smallest skate size available is a Child’s size 7 (European 25), typically fitting children aged 3–4. All children aged 12 and under must be accompanied on the ice by a skating adult (max 5 children per adult).

5. Can I bring my own ice skates?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own skates, provided they are standard figure or hockey skates. Speed skates (with long blades) are not permitted for safety reasons. Please note that bringing your own skates does not entitle you to a discount on the ticket price.

6. What happens if it rains?

Skate at Somerset House is an outdoor, all-weather event. The rink remains open in the rain. In fact, rain can sometimes make the ice smoother! The only time sessions are cancelled is in extreme weather conditions (like high winds or lightning) that pose a safety risk. Tickets are non-refundable due to rain.

7. Is there a bag policy or cloakroom?

For safety, no bags of any size are allowed on the ice. Somerset House provides a cloakroom where your first item (like a coat or small bag) is typically free, and subsequent items are charged at £2.00 per item. Large suitcases are not accepted.

8. Can I take photos or videos while skating?

You are welcome to take photos from the spectator platforms. However, for the safety of all skaters, the use of phones, cameras, or selfie sticks is strictly prohibited while on the ice. If you want a professional memento, on-site photographers are often available to capture your moment for a fee.

9. Are there skate aids (like penguins) for beginners?

Somerset House offers “Skate Mates” (stabilizers) for children aged 8 and under on a first-come, first-served basis. These cannot be pre-booked and are only available for use in the dedicated training area to ensure the main rink remains safe for all speeds.

10. Can wheelchair users skate?

Absolutely. Somerset House is fully accessible, and manual wheelchair users are welcome at all public sessions. There are also dedicated wheelchair-only sessions throughout the season where the ice is reserved exclusively for wheelchair users and their companions.

11. What should I wear?

Even if you are an expert, the rink is cold. We recommend thick socks (to prevent blisters), gloves (essential for hand protection if you fall), and layers. Because it is an outdoor rink, waterproof trousers are a smart choice for beginners who might spend some time in contact with the ice.

12. Is the 25th-anniversary Christmas tree real?

Yes! The center-piece of the rink is a 40-foot Nordmann Fir. In line with Somerset House’s sustainability goals, the tree is traditionally recycled after the season ends, often turned into mulch for London’s parks.

13. Do I need to book the restaurants in advance?

For The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia, booking is highly recommended, especially for evening “fondue feasts.” The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse and Blondies Kitchen usually accept walk-ins, though there may be a queue during peak times (weekends and evenings).

14. Are there discounts for locals or students?

Yes. Residents of the Westminster and Camden boroughs often have access to community discounts on specific dates. Students can also access Super Off-Peak pricing (starting at £11) by presenting a valid ID during mid-week morning sessions.

15. Can I buy tickets on the day?

While there is an on-site Box Office, it is mainly for ticket collection. Most sessions, particularly the “Skate Lates” and weekend slots, sell out weeks in advance. We strongly recommend booking via the official website to avoid disappointment.

Conclusion: A Winter Worth Remembering

Whether you are coming for the high-energy beats of Skate Lates, the artistic wonder of Harold Offeh’s commissions, or the simple joy of a hot chocolate by the fire, Somerset House remains the gold standard of London’s winter season. As the 25th-anniversary celebrations draw to a close this January, there has never been a better time to step onto the ice.