Outdoor ice skating
England's growing number of outdoor ice rinks are the coolest places to visit this winter. There's nothing more romantic than gliding about under the stars, surrounded by fairy lights and Christmas trees. So get your hats, gloves and scarves at the ready...
Bristol
Bristol Zoo Gardens - 16 November 2007 until 13 January 2008
For the first time ever, plant yourself in the middle of the Bristol Zoo Gardens and skate along to the sounds of lions’ roaring, birds singing and monkeys dangling from trees above your head on their wildly fantastic new ice rink open day and night this Christmas season.
Cornwall
The Cove, Nr Penzance
An unforgettable evening of al fresco ice-skating and festive fun awaits in Lamorna Cove this Christmas, as the magical setting of The Cove is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with ice rink, twinkling Christmas lights and a magnificent, elegantly decorated tree. From November 24th until January 5th, The Cove will be home to a 100sqft ice rink, open to guests and diners at The Cove restaurant alike. Why not enjoy a welcoming winter warmer of mulled wine - or hot chocolate for the kids! - before getting your skates on...
Eden Project, Boldeva, St Austell - 20 October 2007 to 24 February 2008
There’s something magical about outdoor skating with the world’s largest greenhouse biomes as a backdrop, bustling about in the converted Winter Wonderland, complete with lantern processions, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and Cornish choirs.
Coventry
E.ON Ice Rink
E.ON, the UK's largest integrated electricity and gas company, will be spreading some festive cheer this Christmas with a 20x30 outdoor ice rink situated in the iconic Millennium Place. It will epitomise a "Magical Winter Wonderland" with a stunning marquee entrance with peaks to symbolize the city's three spires and will open to the public on Saturday 17 November.
Leeds
Ice Cube
Get ready to put your skates on once again as we welcome in the New Year and the start of the Celebrate Leeds 2007 festivities with the return of the Ice Cube - the UK's largest temporary outdoor real ice rink.
London
Hyde Park Ice Rink - 24 November 2007 to 6 January 2008
Festive fun in the heart of London featuring London’s largest outdoor ice rink, German Christmas market, a giant observation wheel, games and rides will take place in Hyde Park this year.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink - 8 November 2007 - 20 January 2008
A full fun family-friendly day out is ensured by a whirl around this thrilling ice rink and the jolly Christmas Fair just outside the museum.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink - 17 November 2007 to 17 February 2008
Located in the magnificent setting of Canada Square Park, surrounded by Canary Wharf’s world famous tower, this ice rink transforms the estate into a winter wonderland of ice skating and entertainment this winter season.
Somerset House - 21 November 2007 - 27 January 2008
A romantic rink is erected in the 18th century courtyard of the Somerset House this Christmas season.
Tower of London Museum Ice Rink - 24 November 2007 to 13 January 2008
Her Majesty’s Fortress freezes over, as the moat of the Tower of London converts to an ice skating rink, fun for friends and families alike.
Kew Gardens Ice Rink - 25 November 2007 to 6 January 2008
Skate in the shadow of the spectacular Temperate House located within the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew – and combine skating with a wander round the Gardens for a complete day out.
Greenwich Ice Rink - 8 December 2007 to 13 January 2008
Mulled wine, mince pies, and mouthwatering hot chocolate await you after a whirl around the ice rink located between the colonnades of the Old Royal Naval College this Christmas season.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink - 1 December 2007 to 13 January 2008
Situated between the banks of the Thames and a backdrop of Hampton Court Palace, a day out at this ice rink can be enhanced by a joint ticket including a visit to the fascinating palace as well.
Winchester
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink
Few ice rinks are more romantically located than Winchester’s. Set against the stunning backdrop of the world-famous cathedral and with an adjacent Christmas market, there’s fun to be had both on and off the ice.
York
The Ice Factor - 17 November 2007 to 06 Jan 2008
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Clifford’s Tower in the centre of York, The Ice Factor is a unique Christmas attraction for young and old alike. It encompasses a picturesque rink centered round the illuminated oak tree in the Eye of York.