When winter comes, it’s hard for many to not picture themselves bundled in a jumper, coat, and scarf, walking amongst the ice and snow-covered trees of Britain.  Days spent shopping, preparing for the holiday season, and frolicking in a winter wonderland – these are all fun and fabulous activities that people enjoy during that special time of year.  But when it comes to the ultimate in winter fun, nothing beats spending a weekend afternoon ice skating in one of Britain’s beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks.

You have a lot of choices as to how to spend your winter weekends.  You may choose to stay home and enjoy a hot chocolate and a movie with family, or take one of many ferries to Calais.  If you’re really adventurous though, you’ll take to the outdoors, throw on a pair of skates, and spend an hour or two gliding along the ice with a special friend or family member.

If there’s one thing that Britain is known for in the winter is its seasonal ice rinks.  Forget Rockefeller Center in New York City, Britain is where it’s at.  From beginners to experts, from first timers to seasoned pros, you will be sure to find an ice skating rink in Britain that will offer you an amazing experience and wonderful memories.

Tower of London

If you’re interested in history and fun, there’s no better place to visit than the Tower of London Ice Rink.  Touted as London’s “most dramatic open-air ice rink,” the Tower of London Ice Rink is located in the moat, and set against the backdrop of the fortress battlements.  This location offers visitors one of the most magnificent settings during the winter time for skating and staying in the city.

Brighton Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is a definite must-see any time of the year, but it is particularly spectacular during the winter season.  Originally constructed for King George IV, the Royal Pavilion began construction in 1787 and eventually became one of the most spectacular structures in the whole of Brighton, especially considering the exotic appearance of the building inside and out.  But starting in November, the Pavilion takes on a whole new light as the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink opens and visitors are afforded a unique winter experience.

Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland

In its 12^th year, Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland situated in Cardiff’s Civic Centre is still going strong after all these seasons.  It is a festive celebration beginning each year in November, including the Admiral Open Air Ice Rink, Ice Café and a variety of seasonal activities for individuals and families of all sizes.  But Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland isn’t just a place to skate; it’s also a place to enjoy the best that Britain has to offer in entertainment, from spectacular circus acts to musical artists soaring at the top of the charts.

 Edinburgh Castle

If you’re looking to take your ice skating experience to the next level, then there’s no better way to do it than at Edinburgh Castle.  Said to be the largest open-air ice rink in the whole of Europe, the ice rink in Scotland’s capital provides visitors with one of the most amazing backdrops in which to skate, especially during the Christmas season.