Skate into Christmas 2025 at Hampton Court Palace Rink
The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is set to return for Christmas 2025, offering a picturesque and historic ice skating experience from November 21, 2025, to January 7, 2026. This annual attraction provides a unique opportunity to skate beneath twinkling lights, in front of the palace’s grand facade and alongside the River Thames, just a short walk from Hampton Court station.
The rink caters to a wide audience, ensuring accessibility and varied entertainment. Children can utilize skate aids, while dedicated quiet sessions are available daily at 10 am. Wheelchair users are welcomed on the ice, with complimentary carer tickets and a requirement for electric wheelchairs to be in manual mode. Beyond general skating, 2025 introduces several new experiences. These include live ice carving demonstrations on select dates in November and December (5 pm-7 pm), and “Skating Santa” appearances where Father Christmas performs on the ice (December 6-7 and 13-14, 10 am-12 pm). Adults can enjoy exclusive evening sessions with a DJ and a festive cocktail menu from the rinkside bar on specific dates in November and December from 7 pm.
The accompanying café and bar have been revamped with rustic decor, offering a range of refreshments. Skaters can warm up with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or hot toddies, complemented by seasonal snacks from Dee light Bakery and the aforementioned cocktail menu. A top recommendation for visitors is to book a session during sunset, which offers a breathtaking view of the sun setting over the river and the moon rising over the palace simultaneously. While the article highlights the joyous experience, it lightheartedly acknowledges the possibility of “tumbles,” implying the inherent minor risks of ice skating. This combination of historical grandeur, festive activities, and thoughtful amenities makes the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink a quintessential London Christmas outing.
