London’s most beautiful open-air ice rink is back – and it’s definitely worth the wait.
The Queen’s House Ice Rink returns to Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage Site from November 21 to January 4, bringing back that magical combination of outdoor skating, historic architecture and breathtaking views that Time Out London called “one of London’s most captivatingly beautiful” experiences.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to plan a proper winter break, this is it. The Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath provides the ideal base for skating sessions, festive activities and exploring everything Greenwich offers during its most magical season.
Why This Location Makes All The Difference
Not all ice rinks are created equal. The Queen’s House Ice Rink sits at the heart of Greenwich’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering views of Canary Wharf’s twinkling towers and the Queen’s House’s striking Baroque architecture.
You’re not just skating – you’re gliding across ice surrounded by 400 years of British maritime history.
The setting transforms a simple skating session into something genuinely special. Where else can you pirouette (or wobble, let’s be honest) with such spectacular architecture as your backdrop?
Produced by Tamarisk Events, this year’s ice rink brings thoughtful improvements to an already exceptional experience:
- VIP Fast-Track Tickets – Skip queues and get straight onto the ice when you’ve travelled from Blackheath for your session.
- Skate-Off Pit Lane – Need a breather mid-session? Step off the ice without ending your skate, perfect for families with young children who tire quickly.
- Zero Degrees Restaurant Viewing Area – Not everyone wants to skate. Non-skating family members can watch from comfort while enjoying warming food and drinks.
- Special Sessions – Toddler sessions, student discounts, quiet skates for those who prefer calmer atmospheres and school trips linking skating to Greenwich’s rich history.
- Extended Hours – Open 10am-9pm daily (except Christmas Day), giving you flexibility to plan skating around other activities.
For Families: Combine Skating With Santa’s Grotto
Running alongside the ice rink, Santa’s Grotto at the Queen’s House (selected dates November 22 to December 24) offers 45-minute theatrical experiences inspired by The Nutcracker.
Children journey through the Land of Sweets and the Land of Ice and Snow before meeting Santa himself. At £27 per person (£24.30 for Royal Museums Greenwich members), it makes the perfect complement to your skating visit.
The Clarendon’s family rooms provide space for everyone to spread out after active days, while our location means shorter journeys to and from activities – essential with tired, cold children.
Beyond The Ice: Greenwich’s Winter Season
The ice rink signals the start of Greenwich’s full festive season. Christmas markets fill with artisan gifts and seasonal food, the Cutty Sark looks stunning dressed for winter, and Royal Museums Greenwich (National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory) provide world-class culture when you need indoor warmth.
Greenwich Park reveals different winter beauty – bare trees framing London skyline views, frost transforming familiar landscapes.
Back in Blackheath, independent cafés and shops offer refuge from winter winds, while our Chart Bar becomes the perfect venue for discussing the day’s adventures over warming drinks.
Practical Information
- Book early: Ice rink sessions and Santa’s Grotto dates book quickly, particularly weekends and school holidays. Secure your preferred times first, then book Clarendon accommodation to match.
- What to bring: Warm layers, gloves (essential and required for skating), weather-appropriate footwear, and your camera for that spectacular setting.
- Special sessions: Check the ice rink website for specific toddler sessions, student discounts, quiet skates, and school trip information (just £5 per skater).
- Getting there from The Clarendon: 15-minute walk through Blackheath and Greenwich Park, regular buses, or quick taxi journey.
The Clarendon: Perfectly Positioned For Your Ice Rink Visit
Staying at The Clarendon makes sense for your Greenwich winter break. We’re located in Blackheath village, a pleasant 15-minute walk through Blackheath and Greenwich Park to the ice rink, or a quick bus journey when weather turns properly wintry.
You’re close enough for easy access to all Greenwich’s winter attractions, yet far enough to return each evening to peaceful village surroundings rather than tourist crowds. Wake up to proper breakfast in our restaurant, spend your day skating and exploring, then return to comfortable rooms and quiet Blackheath evenings.
No late transport stress, no wondering how to get home after 9pm skating sessions – just the right balance between winter activity and proper rest.
Winter Escape Deal – Stay Longer, Save More
- Full English Breakfast
- Complimentary Wifi
- 3 Nights Minimum
- Flexible Rate
- No Deposit
- Flexible – Free cancellation before noon on the day of arrival
Book the Winter Escape Deal here
Make It A Tradition
The Queen’s House Ice Rink runs until January 4 2026, giving you plenty of opportunity to visit. But why not make it a tradition? Book your Clarendon stay now and experience London’s most beautiful ice rink while creating winter memories that last.
Whether it’s family tradition, romantic ritual or simply because winter deserves celebrating properly, some experiences are worth planning ahead for. The ice rink is back. Your winter break awaits.
Book your Clarendon winter break today and discover why Time Out calls this one of London’s most captivatingly beautiful experiences.