‘Tis the season to be skating, and it seems every city worth it’s winter is kicking up a serious stink in the rink department. I chose my pick of the bunch – these six bad boys are certainly NOT the weakest rink!
Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Canada.
As the world’s largest ice rink (it’s equal to 90 Olympic sized rinks – try that on for size!), this is definitely one to visit if you like a little space with your skating! The Rideau Canal also acts as a highway to the heart of Ottowa’s Winterlude Festival, which takes place in February.
Image by Vince Alongi
Somerset House, London.
You don’t get much more festive than Somerset House – it’s become quite a tradition for many Londoners to head to this winter wonderland by the Thames for some festive fun. The courtyard is totally transformed by beautiful lights, a huge Christmas tree and great music to skate to. Check out the the Courtauld Gallery too, for masterworks from Fra Angelico and the Fauves!
Image by Rcacapinta
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Here’s one for the patriots – scan the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives before strapping on your skates and hitting the rink at the National Mall. Take a turn around the Sculpture Garden, which features a giant typewriter eraser by Claes Oldenburg.
Image by dbking
Zócalo, Mexico City.
It doesn’t make sense – but that’s why it’s great. It sadly isn’t there any more – it was only around for a few months in 2007 – but the bold idea itself means it makes it into our top list!
Image by Ariaski
Tjörnin Lake, Reykjavik.
Reykjavik’s icy temperatures are the perfect host for a dreamy ice rink. In the winter, the city’s lake becomes a centre of family fun, hockey matches and everything in between. For Après-skate, you can take a dip in a geothermally heated Vesturbæjarlaug pool. The perfect combination!
Image by Tong?!?
Eden Project Ice Rink
Skate beneath the stunning light displays of the brand new Eden Project’s Ice Rink. Skating is open every weekend afternoon from 3pm, all day Saturday and from midday on Sunday – and then follow it up with a stroll around all those amazing plants!
Where’s your favourite place to skate?!
