Skating in London

For ice, the choice splits between a seasonal courtyard and year-round rinks. Somerset House is the winter pick: a floodlit historic courtyard that CN Traveller describes as a London tradition, with a Kids Skate Club for six to ten year olds supported by ice marshals and skate aids, and quieter weekday morning sessions that one family guide says are designed to stop children feeling overwhelmed by faster skaters. The rest of the year, Alexandra Palace Ice Rink is the one CN Traveller calls unique for staying open year-round; children from three can use the skating aids, though reviews warn of crowding at peak times and a hilltop car park that fills on weekends. Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre - Active Lambeth offers a full Olympic-sized rink with spectator seating, so beginners get room and non-skating parents get a seat, although reviews flag changing room maintenance. Lee Valley Ice Centre is the modern, clean option with free parking and beginner lessons, but sessions book out fast.

On wheels, Roller Nation runs family sessions where staff come to beginners on the outer edge, and Skating Haven Family Roller Skating Disco suits birthdays for five to twelve year olds, with staff skating alongside every child. RollaDome All Skate offers structured courses, but reviews are mixed on staffing and scheduling, so ask for a trial session first.

For skateboards and inline skates, Zebra Skate and Zebra Skate - Skateboarding and Rollerblading for all ages run camps for ages five to fifteen, dividing groups by skill and handing out daily medals. LandShark Skating lets parents and children join the same class. Gurnell Concrete Skatepark and Bowl is free, outdoors, with a pump track beside the bowl; go in daylight. Southbank Skate Space has no hire and advanced riders, so treat it as a spectator stop unless your teenager already skates.